Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UNC Charlotte's business program delivers solid value that becomes more apparent when you look at the North Carolina landscape. While graduates earn $46,272 in their first year—just above the national median—they significantly outperform the typical NC business graduate who earns $43,375. This program ranks in the 60th percentile among North Carolina business programs, a meaningful advantage in a state with 52 competing options.
The debt picture tells an even better story. At $22,285, graduates carry nearly $5,000 less debt than the state median and $3,700 less than the national average. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48—well within the manageable range—while many peers struggle with higher debt loads. Earnings growth of 17% over four years brings graduates to nearly $54,000, approaching the national 75th percentile.
For parents weighing UNC Charlotte against pricier alternatives, the math is compelling. Yes, UNC Chapel Hill grads earn $85,000, but they likely face steeper debt and admission requirements. UNC Charlotte offers accessible admission (80% acceptance rate) with above-average outcomes for North Carolina, making it a practical choice that won't burden your child with excessive debt while still providing solid earning potential in Charlotte's growing business market.
Where University of North Carolina at Charlotte Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of North Carolina at Charlotte graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of North Carolina at Charlotte graduates earn $46k, placing them in the 52th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (52 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Charlotte | $46,272 | $53,976 | $22,285 | 0.48 |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $85,618 | $105,246 | $14,339 | 0.17 |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | $56,877 | $69,742 | $20,000 | 0.35 |
| Queens University of Charlotte | $54,032 | $64,491 | $23,250 | 0.43 |
| Meredith College | $48,955 | $52,241 | $23,500 | 0.48 |
| University of Mount Olive | $48,751 | $50,645 | $35,500 | 0.73 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in North Carolina
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across North Carolina schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill | $8,989 | $85,618 | $14,339 |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh Raleigh | $8,895 | $56,877 | $20,000 |
| Queens University of Charlotte Charlotte | $43,285 | $54,032 | $23,250 |
| Meredith College Raleigh | $43,936 | $48,955 | $23,500 |
| University of Mount Olive Mount Olive | $25,950 | $48,751 | $35,500 |
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 North Carolina at Charlotte, approximately 34% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 326 graduates with reported earnings and 300 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.