Median Earnings (1yr)
$49,004
62nd percentile (60th in WA)
Median Debt
$15,000
42% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.31
Manageable
Sample Size
327
Adequate data

Analysis

UW-Bothell's business program stands out for one compelling reason: exceptionally low debt. At just $15,000 in median student loans—ranking in the 95th percentile nationally for affordability—graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31, well below problematic levels and allowing graduates genuine financial flexibility early in their careers.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story of professional growth. Starting salaries of $49,004 match both the state and national medians, placing the program solidly in the 60th percentile among Washington business programs. More importantly, earnings jump 38% to $67,626 by year four, suggesting graduates develop marketable skills and advance quickly in their careers. While top-tier programs like City University of Seattle command higher starting salaries, they likely come with substantially higher debt loads.

For families seeking a practical path to business careers without crushing debt, UW-Bothell delivers strong value. The combination of reasonable starting salaries, robust earning growth, and minimal debt creates an ideal foundation for long-term financial success. Your child will graduate with the credentials and skills needed for business careers while maintaining the financial freedom to pursue opportunities, take calculated risks, or continue their education without overwhelming loan payments.

Where University of Washington-Bothell Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

University of Washington-Bothell CampusOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Washington-Bothell Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Washington-Bothell Campus graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 62th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Washington

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Washington (37 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Washington-Bothell Campus$49,004$67,626$15,0000.31
City University of Seattle$79,592$67,095$18,0000.23
Olympic College$58,058—$11,3050.19
Northwest University-Center for Online and Extended Education$54,779$71,547$25,0000.46
Northwest University$54,779$71,547$25,0000.46
Western Washington University$53,402$68,627$17,3750.33
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Washington

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Washington schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
City University of Seattle
Seattle
$14,589$79,592$18,000
Olympic College
Bremerton
$4,197$58,058$11,305
Northwest University-Center for Online and Extended Education
Kirkland
$14,652$54,779$25,000
Northwest University
Kirkland
$36,035$54,779$25,000
Western Washington University
Bellingham
$9,286$53,402$17,375

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 Washington-Bothell Campus, approximately 28% 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 327 graduates with reported earnings and 242 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.