Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Business

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

50

Schools Analyzed

$97,518

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$31,506

Avg. Net Price

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As students and families explore options for business education, the potential for high earnings after graduation stands out. With an average salary of nearly $100,000 for graduates in this field, the right choice can lead to significant financial rewards. These schools share a commitment to preparing students for the competitive business landscape through dedicated programs and resources.

What separates the strongest institutions from others in business programs are key outcomes like earnings, graduation rates, and manageable debt levels. The list below highlights schools where graduates earn impressive salaries, often with low student debt, ensuring that financial burdens are minimized while maximizing future earning potential. Keep an eye on how each school balances these factors — it can make all the difference.

Take Babson College and Bentley University, for example. Babson graduates earn $123,938 on average, significantly higher than Bentley’s $120,959. However, Bentley has a lower net price of $37,930 compared to Babson's $40,514. For students weighing earnings versus costs, this contrast is crucial and illustrates the importance of aligning financial expectations with career goals.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $97,518

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $31,506

Avg. median debt $21,371

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings with program concentration in Business & Marketing

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

Bentley University

Waltham, MA

Earnings$120,959

Net Price$37,930

View full profile →

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Earnings$114,862

Net Price$31,944

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Babson College in Wellesley, MA, is a haven for students interested in entrepreneurship and business. The school's focus on real-world application of business concepts prepares students not just for jobs, but for careers. Graduates earn a median income of $123,938 in their tenth year, reflecting the strong career trajectories available to them after leaving the campus.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University in Waltham, MA, attracts students who are ready to dive into the intersection of business and technology. With 88% of students graduating, Bentley emphasizes career readiness, which aligns with the $120,959 median earnings reported ten years post-graduation. The school's commitment to experiential learning means that students graduate not only with knowledge but with practical skills that employers value.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University, located in Pittsburgh, PA, is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and innovative spirit. With a graduation rate of 93%, students are well-prepared to enter competitive fields, reflected in their median earnings of $114,862 after ten years. The university fosters a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and critical thinking, which are essential skills in today's job market.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA, is a leading institution known for its academic excellence and commitment to research. With an impressive graduation rate of 97%, UPenn prepares students to excel in a variety of fields, as seen in their median earnings of $111,371 ten years after graduation. The university's rich campus life and strong alumni network set the stage for success in the professional world.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Santa Clara University is a strong choice for students seeking a private nonprofit education in California's vibrant Silicon Valley. The school's focus on experiential learning and innovation prepares students for a competitive job market, as evidenced by a median earnings figure of $109,183 ten years after graduation.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Santa's full profile

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University, nestled in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is known for its close-knit community and strong engineering and business programs. With an 89% graduation rate, students here can expect a robust education that translates into impressive median earnings of $105,584 a decade after graduation, underscoring the school’s emphasis on practical skills and leadership.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a stunning campus in Ithaca, New York. With a graduation rate of 95%, students frequently find success in their chosen fields, achieving a median earning of $104,043 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the value of a Cornell degree in the job market.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, is not just about completing a degree; it’s about launching successful careers. The median earnings of $108,772 a decade after graduation highlight the school's commitment to preparing students for the tech-driven job market, particularly in engineering and technology fields.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College is recognized for its strong liberal arts programs and commitment to community service. With a graduation rate of 91%, students are well-prepared for post-college success, as reflected in median earnings of $103,937 ten years after they leave the campus, signaling a solid investment in their future.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology, located in Atlanta, GA, boasts a graduation rate of 93%, indicative of its rigorous academic programs and supportive environment. With median earnings of $102,772 after ten years, graduates are well-equipped to enter lucrative careers, particularly in engineering and technology sectors, which are booming in today’s economy.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University in Washington, DC, has an impressive graduation rate of 95%, reflecting its strong academic support and engaged community. With median earnings of $103,494 a decade after graduation, students often find themselves well-prepared for influential roles in various fields, including politics, business, and international relations.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, IN, is known for its strong graduation rate of 96%, which speaks volumes about its supportive community and academic rigor. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $99,980 after ten years, positioning them well for careers in fields like business, engineering, and education, often bolstered by the university’s extensive alumni network.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a mere 10% acceptance rate, Claremont McKenna College attracts driven individuals seeking a close-knit academic community in sunny California. The student body of just 1,388 ensures that you’ll receive personal attention from faculty, fostering deep relationships and meaningful discussions that enhance your learning experience.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

Villanova University, located just outside Philadelphia, is known for its vibrant campus life and strong sense of community, making it a great choice for students who value connection. With nearly 7,000 students, you'll find a balance between a lively atmosphere and the personalized attention often associated with smaller schools.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, is a hub for aspiring engineers and innovators, with a student population of over 5,700. The school has a unique focus on technology and research, making it ideal for students eager to dive into challenging STEM fields and collaborate with like-minded peers.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the picturesque town of Lexington, Virginia, Washington and Lee University features a tight-knit community with just under 1,900 students. The institution’s impressive 94% graduation rate suggests a strong commitment to student success through close mentorship and a rigorous academic environment.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

With a unique focus on maritime studies, SUNY Maritime College prepares students for careers in fields such as engineering, marine transportation, and environmental science. Located in Throggs Neck, NY, the college has a strong community feel, with just over 1,200 students creating a close-knit atmosphere that fosters teamwork and collaboration.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

SUNY's full profile

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Southern California is a vibrant institution located in the heart of Los Angeles, fostering creativity and innovation among its 20,000 students. With a strong reputation for its programs in film, business, and the arts, USC attracts students eager to immerse themselves in a leading cultural hub while pursuing their academic goals.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, blending classroom education with real-world experiences through internships and co-op programs. Located in Boston, MA, the university supports a diverse student body of over 17,000, encouraging both academic excellence and practical skills development.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 86%, Bucknell University provides a supportive environment that encourages academic success. The campus in Lewisburg, PA, fosters a close-knit community, where students engage deeply with their studies and each other, contributing to the strong outcomes seen in their graduates' earnings.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University is known for its intimate campus environment and rigorous academic programs, catering to around 4,800 students in Houston, TX. Its commitment to undergraduate education is evident in its high graduation rate of 95%, making it an appealing option for students dedicated to their studies and looking for a supportive community.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Rice's full profile

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy is unique, combining a maritime focus with a strong academic foundation. With a graduation rate of 63%, this school caters to students who are passionate about maritime studies, engineering, and environmental sciences, providing them with hands-on experiences and specialized training.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of the nation's capital, George Washington University offers students unique access to a wealth of internship and networking opportunities. With an 85% graduation rate, it prepares students for success in various fields, particularly those related to politics, business, and international relations.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, is known for its strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary collaboration, reflected in its impressive 96% graduation rate. The university attracts high-achieving students who thrive in a rigorous academic environment, preparing them for successful careers in various fields.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

Bryant University

Smithfield, RI · 3,194 students · Private nonprofit

Bryant University attracts students looking for a strong business education in a close-knit community. With an 80% graduation rate, it emphasizes practical learning and career readiness, preparing students for success in various business fields including finance and marketing.

65% accepted 80% graduate $90,008 earnings

Bryant's full profile

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT · 5,373 students · Private nonprofit

Fairfield University, nestled in Connecticut, has a strong sense of community and a commitment to student development. With a graduation rate of 84%, this private nonprofit institution encourages personal growth alongside academic achievement, making it a compelling option for students looking for a supportive environment.

33% accepted 84% graduate $88,794 earnings

Fairfield's full profile

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 5,287 students · Private nonprofit

The University of San Francisco captures the essence of a dynamic urban campus, with a graduation rate of 71%. Located in the heart of San Francisco, this private nonprofit university offers students a unique blend of academic rigor and access to one of the nation's most innovative cities, perfect for those looking to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

62% accepted 71% graduate $89,812 earnings

University's full profile

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis is known for its exceptional graduation rate of 94%, a testament to its supportive environment and rigorous academic programs. The university cultivates a vibrant community of thinkers and leaders, drawing students who are not only academically talented but also committed to making an impact in their fields.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

Providence College

Providence, RI · 4,229 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Rhode Island’s capital, Providence College has a close-knit community of 4,229 students, creating an intimate educational experience. The college boasts a graduation rate of 87% and median earnings of $87,054 at ten years post-graduation, suggesting that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their careers. The liberal arts focus encourages critical thinking, making it a great fit for students who appreciate a well-rounded education.

51% accepted 87% graduate $87,054 earnings

Providence's full profile

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $89,070 a decade after graduation, Milwaukee School of Engineering gives students a strong return on investment. The school’s focus on engineering and technical disciplines prepares graduates for high-demand careers, reflecting its commitment to practical, hands-on education in a vibrant city known for its rich manufacturing history.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

With a strong emphasis on maritime and engineering programs, Maine Maritime Academy prepares students for unique careers in specialized fields. The school's focus on practical training and industry partnerships helps students secure jobs post-graduation, as reflected in a median earning of $89,964 after ten years, which is particularly notable for a public institution.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Maine's full profile

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $89,696 at ten years post-graduation, Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, presents a strong case for students eyeing a solid return on their educational investment. The university has a graduation rate of 74%, indicating that a majority of students successfully navigate their academic journeys. Clarkson's focus on engineering, business, and health sciences can appeal to those eager for practical, hands-on experience in their fields of interest.

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

University of San Diego, nestled in a beautiful coastal city, boasts an impressive 83% graduation rate, reflecting its supportive environment for students. This private nonprofit institution prioritizes a well-rounded education, blending academics with community engagement and social responsibility, which appeals to those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH, is distinguished by its impressive 87% graduation rate and a median earning potential of $87,989 a decade after graduation. With a larger student population of 6,437, it provides a wealth of resources and opportunities in a range of disciplines, especially in the sciences and engineering, making it a hub for aspiring professionals.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

Case's full profile

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley is a hub of innovation and academic rigor, evidenced by its impressive 93% graduation rate. Located in the heart of the Bay Area, it attracts students eager to immerse themselves in diverse ideas and cultures, preparing them to thrive in a global workforce.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, innovation thrives. Known for its rigorous academic environment, the school encourages students to tackle some of the world's biggest challenges, producing graduates who are not just job seekers but also leaders in their fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is synonymous with innovation and high achievement. With a staggering median earnings figure of $124,080 at ten years post-graduation, Stanford graduates often find themselves in lucrative positions. The university's graduation rate of 92% speaks volumes about its supportive academic environment and the caliber of its students, making it an appealing choice for those ready to excel in a competitive landscape.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University is a bustling urban campus with a strong reputation, reflected in its 89% graduation rate and a median earning figure of $83,238 for graduates ten years after they leave. With a substantial student body of 18,248, the university fosters a vibrant academic culture enriched by its Boston location, which is a hub for innovation and career opportunities in various fields.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 86%, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has established itself as a leader in practical education, especially in fields like engineering and agriculture. The university's location in the picturesque coastal town of San Luis Obispo adds to its appeal, making it a desirable destination for students seeking both academic and outdoor experiences.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory University in Atlanta is a strong choice for students looking for academic rigor combined with a vibrant campus life. The school's dedication to research and community engagement creates an environment where students can thrive both personally and academically. The median earnings of $80,137 a decade after graduation highlight the value of an Emory degree in today's job market.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Emory's full profile

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

New's full profile

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University, located in the heart of Boston, is an ideal choice for students eager to enter healthcare fields. With a graduation rate of 63%, many students find their path in professions where they can make a significant impact on people's lives, backed by a strong curriculum focused on clinical practice and patient care.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

MCPHS's full profile

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. With a graduation rate of 68%, students engage in an immersive learning experience that prepares them for real-world challenges in pharmacy and health sciences, backed by a curriculum that emphasizes both theory and practice.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA · 4,948 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia offers a personalized educational experience with a graduation rate of 79%. This private nonprofit school emphasizes a sense of belonging, and its urban setting provides students with vibrant cultural and professional opportunities, making it a great place for those looking to immerse themselves in city life.

89% accepted 79% graduate $86,881 earnings

Saint's full profile

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA · 3,553 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 84% graduate $82,939 earnings

Pepperdine's full profile

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

New's full profile

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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