Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations at University of St Thomas

University of St. Thomas graduates in this entrepreneurship program start at $48,600—already ahead of both the state median ($45,464) and national median ($45,265)—then see their earnings jump 32% to $64,105 within four years. That kind of trajectory is exactly what you want from a business program, suggesting graduates are building valuable skills and networks that compound over time. Among Minnesota's entrepreneurship programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, outperforming most state alternatives despite the state's relatively strong business education landscape.

The $21,500 debt load sits right at Minnesota's median for this field, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44—well within manageable territory. This is roughly half the first-year salary, meaning a focused graduate could realistically pay it off within a few years while still investing in their business ventures or career development. The university's 85% admission rate and strong support for first-generation students (though only 20% receive Pell grants) suggests accessibility without sacrificing outcomes.

For parents wondering whether paying for a specialized entrepreneurship degree is worth it versus general business, the earnings growth here provides a clear answer. Graduates aren't just treading water—they're building momentum. This program delivers both immediate employability and longer-term career acceleration, making it a solid investment for students serious about business ownership or corporate innovation roles.