Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of New Mexico-Main Campus

The University of New Mexico's business administration program offers surprisingly strong value despite modest national rankings. While graduates earn slightly below the national median initially ($45,215 vs. $45,703), they significantly outperform other New Mexico business programs, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide compared to a state median of just $39,678. This $5,500 earnings advantage over in-state competitors is meaningful for families planning to stay in New Mexico.

The debt picture tells an even more compelling story. At $17,916, student debt runs well below both national ($26,000) and state ($18,583) medians for business programs. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.40—manageable by any standard and particularly attractive given that many business programs saddle students with much higher debt loads. The 22% earnings growth from year one to year four also shows solid career trajectory.

For New Mexico families, this program delivers the best combination of earnings potential and affordability among in-state options. The numbers suggest UNM business graduates can expect competitive salaries within the state while avoiding the debt burden that often comes with business degrees elsewhere. Given the 95% admission rate, this represents an accessible path to solid middle-class earnings in New Mexico's job market.