Analysis
USF's finance program starts graduates at below-average salaries but shows impressive earning potential over time. While first-year earnings of $49,906 trail both the national median ($53,590) and Florida average ($51,633), graduates see strong 26% growth by year four, reaching $63,000βwell above typical finance program outcomes.
The debt picture offers a significant advantage. At $19,542, student loans are notably lower than both national ($23,332) and state ($20,021) medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39. Among Florida's 30 finance programs, USF ranks in the 40th percentile for earningsβsolidly middle-of-the-pack but trailing flagship competitors like UF ($70,663) and Miami ($70,352) by substantial margins.
This program works best for students seeking affordable entry into finance with room for career growth. The combination of below-average debt and strong earnings progression creates a reasonable path to financial stability, even if starting salaries lag behind more prestigious in-state options. For families prioritizing manageable debt over immediate high earnings, USF delivers solid value, though students aiming for top-tier finance careers might find better opportunities elsewhere in Florida.
Where University of South Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of South Florida graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Florida | $49,906 | $63,000 | +26% |
| University of Miami | $70,352 | $89,692 | +27% |
| University of Florida | $70,663 | $83,279 | +18% |
| The University of Tampa | $51,845 | $76,735 | +48% |
| Florida State University | $56,516 | $75,328 | +33% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (30 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,410 | $49,906 | $63,000 | $19,542 | 0.39 | |
| $6,381 | $70,663 | $83,279 | $17,954 | 0.25 | |
| $59,926 | $70,352 | $89,692 | $14,500 | 0.21 | |
| $5,656 | $56,516 | $75,328 | $18,162 | 0.32 | |
| $6,368 | $56,415 | $66,928 | $18,843 | 0.33 | |
| $6,118 | $55,882 | $70,927 | $21,239 | 0.38 | |
| National Median | β | $53,590 | β | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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 South Florida, approximately 30% 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 422 graduates with reported earnings and 358 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.