Business Administration, Management and Operations at Utah Valley University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Utah Valley University's business program delivers exceptional value that most families overlook. With first-year earnings of $60,132 and remarkably low debt of just $15,546, graduates achieve a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26—meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans in about three months of earnings. This program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for both high earnings and low debt, an almost unprecedented combination.
While Utah Valley ranks 60th percentile within Utah (where business programs generally perform well), the affordability advantage becomes clear when comparing debt loads. The median Utah business graduate carries $19,188 in debt versus UVU's $15,546, and UVU still delivers competitive earnings that trail only the state's most prestigious programs like BYU and Western Governors.
The 19% earnings growth to $71,749 by year four demonstrates solid career progression, and the robust sample size of 100+ graduates confirms these aren't statistical flukes. For families seeking strong business education without the debt burden, Utah Valley University represents one of the best value propositions in the country—you're getting near-elite outcomes at a fraction of the typical cost.
Where Utah Valley University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
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 Utah Valley University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Utah Valley University graduates earn $60k, placing them in the 95th 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 Utah
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (11 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utah Valley University | $60,132 | $71,749 | $15,546 | 0.26 |
| Brigham Young University | $71,163 | $96,358 | $11,000 | 0.15 |
| Western Governors University | $66,432 | $72,056 | $22,087 | 0.33 |
| Weber State University | $65,966 | $72,851 | $23,500 | 0.36 |
| Westminster University | $58,523 | $64,060 | $22,000 | 0.38 |
| Utah State University | $54,387 | $64,575 | $14,000 | 0.26 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Utah
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Utah schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brigham Young University Provo | $6,496 | $71,163 | $11,000 |
| Western Governors University Salt Lake City | $8,300 | $66,432 | $22,087 |
| Weber State University Ogden | $6,391 | $65,966 | $23,500 |
| Westminster University Salt Lake City | $41,416 | $58,523 | $22,000 |
| Utah State University Logan | $9,228 | $54,387 | $14,000 |
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 Utah Valley University, approximately 23% 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 325 graduates with reported earnings and 190 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.