Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne

University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne graduates earn $50,253 in their first year after completing this business degree—a solid outcome that places them above both the national median ($45,703) and the state median ($49,245) for business programs. While the debt figure of $27,000 is estimated from similar Indiana programs (the actual number for this school isn't reported), the resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 suggests manageable repayment. With 43% of students receiving Pell grants and a 98% acceptance rate, this school serves students who might not have access to more selective institutions, yet still delivers earnings that outperform most business programs nationally.

The concern is modest earnings growth—just 6% over four years to $53,148. Peer programs in Indiana show what's possible: Grace College business graduates earn $62,251, and Ball State reaches $60,526. That $10,000+ gap suggests this program may lack the competitive edge or network strength that accelerates early-career advancement in business fields, where career trajectory often matters more than starting salary.

For families weighing this option, the first-year outcomes justify the investment based on comparable programs' debt levels. However, if your child has admission prospects at Ball State, Indiana Wesleyan, or similar schools with stronger earnings trajectories, those programs appear to offer better long-term value. If Saint Francis is the best fit academically or financially, the solid starting salary provides a workable foundation—just understand that reaching higher earnings may require extra hustle on internships and networking.