Analysis
A Bachelor's in Construction Management carries substantially different financial implications than many traditional four-year degrees. Based on comparable programs nationally, this field typically produces first-year earnings around $73,000—a figure that puts graduates well ahead of typical bachelor's degree holders right out of the gate. The estimated debt load of roughly $27,000 is manageable in this context, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37. That means graduates would need to dedicate just over a third of their first year's salary to eliminate debt entirely, well below the threshold where education debt becomes burdensome.
The construction industry in North Dakota has been particularly strong, and management roles in this sector tend to offer both immediate earning potential and clear advancement paths. While we're working with national estimates here rather than University of Mary's specific outcomes, the consistency across construction management programs suggests this pathway reliably delivers solid returns. The technical nature of the degree—combining business fundamentals with industry-specific expertise—creates graduates who are immediately valuable to employers.
For parents weighing this investment, the estimated numbers point toward a program that should pay for itself relatively quickly. Construction management graduates typically avoid the years of modest earnings that many bachelor's degree holders face, instead entering careers with genuine financial traction from day one.
Where University of Mary Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction management bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Construction Management bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,468 | $72,746* | — | $26,750* | — | |
| $7,055 | $99,649* | $97,048 | —* | — | |
| $11,075 | $92,785* | — | $18,955* | 0.20 | |
| $8,064 | $89,075* | $102,776 | $19,314* | 0.22 | |
| $6,391 | $82,914* | — | $15,000* | 0.18 | |
| $12,051 | $82,591* | $96,930 | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $72,746* | — | $24,750* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with construction management graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Mary, approximately 18% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 56 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.