Median Earnings (1yr)
$48,670
61st percentile
Median Debt
$16,386
37% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.34
Manageable
Sample Size
66
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Wyoming's business management program delivers exactly what risk-averse parents want: solid earnings with minimal debt risk. At $16,386, graduates carry roughly $10,000 less debt than the typical business major nationwide—that's among the lowest 5% of debt loads for this degree. Combined with first-year earnings of $48,670 (above both national and state medians), you're looking at a debt burden graduates can realistically clear in under a year if they're aggressive about repayment.

The earnings trajectory strengthens the case. That 22% jump to $59,434 by year four suggests graduates are advancing into management roles or landing better opportunities as they gain experience. While Wyoming has limited in-state comparisons (just four business programs statewide), this program matches the state median for earnings while keeping debt substantially lower than what you'd see at many peer institutions.

The tradeoff? UW's 97% admission rate signals this isn't a highly selective program, which some employers notice. But for families prioritizing financial outcomes over prestige, this represents a low-risk path to a business degree. Your child won't graduate with life-altering debt, and the earnings data shows they'll have real job prospects—a pragmatic choice in a state with limited alternatives.

Where University of Wyoming Stands

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

University of WyomingOther 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 Wyoming graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Wyoming graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 61th 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 Wyoming

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wyoming (4 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Wyoming$48,670$59,434$16,3860.34
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

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 Wyoming, approximately 22% 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 66 graduates with reported earnings and 59 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.