Business, Management, Marketing, at Widener University

Widener's business program starts below the national median but shows something many Pennsylvania business programs don't: substantial earnings growth. Graduates earn $42,408 in their first year—roughly 17% below the national median—but reach $54,708 by year four, a 29% jump that ultimately puts them above average. More tellingly, this program outperforms 60% of Pennsylvania business schools, a meaningful advantage in a state where many programs struggle to break $40,000 even after several years.

The $27,000 debt load sits right at Pennsylvania's median and is actually slightly above the national average, creating a manageable but not exceptional debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64 in year one. By year four, when earnings climb above the national median, that debt burden becomes considerably lighter. This trajectory suggests Widener's business program provides access to opportunities that pay off with time—likely through internships, networking, or career services—rather than delivering immediate high salaries.

For parents, the key question is whether your child can handle a slower start financially. If they need strong earnings immediately after graduation or are debt-averse, programs with higher initial salaries exist. But if they can manage the first year or two, Widener's upward trajectory and above-average performance within Pennsylvania make it a reasonable choice, particularly given the school's 84% admission rate makes it accessible to most applicants.