Analysis
Business programs across the U.S. typically produce first-year earnings around $47,500βthe estimated figure for UPR-Cayey graduatesβbut Puerto Rico's economic context makes this number particularly significant. The island's median household income sits well below the mainland U.S. average, meaning these earnings could provide more purchasing power locally than the raw number suggests. With an estimated debt load of $23,600, below the national median for business degrees, the 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio falls into manageable territory.
The university's profile tells an important story: 76% of students receive Pell grants, indicating this program primarily serves families for whom college represents a meaningful financial stretch. That accessible admission rate and the relatively contained debt estimate suggest UPR-Cayey prioritizes affordability over exclusivity. For Puerto Rican students planning to work on the island, a business degree from this institution could offer solid value, particularly given the lower cost of living compared to attending mainland schools.
The critical unknown here is how UPR-Cayey's specific outcomes compare to the ten other business programs in Puerto Rico. Without reported earnings data from peer institutions on the island, you're evaluating this investment somewhat blind. If your child plans to stay in Puerto Rico after graduation, this program's affordability becomes its strongest selling point. If they're considering moving to the mainland, understand they'll be competing with graduates whose programs show higher earnings trajectories.
Where University of Puerto Rico at Cayey Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,354 | $47,506* | β | $23,624* | β | |
| $11,678 | $94,041* | β | β* | β | |
| $60,438 | $77,828* | $115,546 | $19,500* | 0.25 | |
| $64,758 | $76,722* | $91,708 | $18,899* | 0.25 | |
| $54,844 | $74,886* | $90,608 | $15,000* | 0.20 | |
| $63,141 | $74,868* | $91,376 | $24,000* | 0.32 | |
| National Median | β | $47,506* | β | $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 Puerto Rico at Cayey, approximately 76% 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.