Analysis
A 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable financial risk, but the larger concern here is that comparable business programs across North Carolina typically produce first-year earnings of $66,076—potentially $18,000 more than what peer programs nationally suggest for UNC Pembroke graduates. That gap matters when you're weighing nearly $24,000 in estimated debt against career prospects. For context, Wake Forest business graduates earn in the mid-$70,000s, while even Strayer—a for-profit institution—reports $55,000.
The debt estimate itself is modest compared to both state and national medians for business degrees. Nearly half of UNC Pembroke students receive Pell grants, which indicates strong access for lower-income families, and the 92% admission rate means your child won't face steep application barriers. The question is whether graduating with this particular credential positions them competitively in North Carolina's business job market, where other programs appear to deliver substantially higher starting salaries.
Given the data limitations here, contact the career services office directly and ask for employment outcomes specific to business majors—where graduates are working, what roles they're securing, and realistic starting salaries in the region. The estimated figures suggest adequate value, but the state comparison raises enough questions that you'll want actual placement data before committing.
Where University of North Carolina at Pembroke Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,571 | $47,506* | — | $23,624* | — | |
| $64,758 | $76,722* | $91,708 | $18,899* | 0.25 | |
| $13,920 | $55,431* | $59,763 | $56,517* | 1.02 | |
| National Median | — | $47,506* | — | $26,000* | 0.55 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
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 Pembroke, approximately 48% 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 242 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.