Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,209
38th percentile (40th in PA)
Median Debt
$27,000
4% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.62
Manageable
Sample Size
28
Limited data

Analysis

Waynesburg's business program shows decent earnings growth but starts behind the curve—graduates earn $43,209 in their first year, landing below both Pennsylvania's $47,040 median and the national average. At the 40th percentile statewide, this means six out of ten Pennsylvania business programs deliver stronger initial outcomes. The gap widens considerably when compared to regional powerhouses like Pitt ($62,675) or even nearby competitors.

The silver lining here is impressive growth: earnings jump 48% to nearly $64,000 by year four, suggesting the degree opens doors even if the first job doesn't wow. Debt of $27,000 matches the state median and keeps the burden manageable at 0.62 times first-year earnings—a relatively safe ratio that most graduates should be able to handle. However, these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, so your child's experience could vary significantly from these numbers.

For families prioritizing stability over prestige, this could work—especially if your student needs the high acceptance rate (92%) and plans to stay in the region. But if they can access Pennsylvania's stronger business programs, the higher starting salaries might justify the extra effort to get in.

Where Waynesburg University Stands

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

Waynesburg UniversityOther 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 Waynesburg University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Waynesburg University graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 38th 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 Pennsylvania

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (82 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Waynesburg University$43,209$63,887$27,0000.62
Carnegie Mellon University$95,891$123,200$23,2500.24
University of Pennsylvania$91,443$90,686$20,3480.22
Lehigh University$69,289$86,039$20,5000.30
Franklin and Marshall College$64,664$77,821$19,5000.30
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus$62,675$74,000$21,0000.34
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Pennsylvania

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh
$63,829$95,891$23,250
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
$66,104$91,443$20,348
Lehigh University
Bethlehem
$62,180$69,289$20,500
Franklin and Marshall College
Lancaster
$68,380$64,664$19,500
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh
$21,524$62,675$21,000

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 Waynesburg University, approximately 31% 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 28 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.