Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Business

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

Schools Analyzed

$54,723

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

54%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$7,289

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in business, the cost of education is often a top concern for students and their families. This list highlights 50 colleges that excel in affordability while offering solid programs in business and marketing. For many, the average cost of a four-year college can exceed $100,000, but these institutions provide a path to quality education without breaking the bank.

What sets these schools apart is their ability to deliver strong outcomes. The average earnings for graduates from this list stand at $54,271, while the graduation rate averages 51%. Weighing factors like earnings potential, student debt, and graduation rates is crucial for making an informed decision, and the data below will help clarify what to expect from each school.

For example, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College features impressive earnings of $75,971, with a graduation rate of 72%, while CUNY Lehman College has lower earnings at $58,013 and a graduation rate of 50%. This contrast illustrates the tradeoffs students may face: higher immediate earnings may come with a different financial commitment or experience than lower-earning programs. Keeping these factors in mind can guide your search.

Key Findings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College graduates earn $75,971 on average, the highest in this list.

The average debt for graduates across these schools is $10,624, providing a manageable financial burden.

Graduation rates vary significantly, from 50% at CUNY Lehman College to 81% at the University of Florida-Online.

CUNY Brooklyn College has a net price of $3,103, making it one of the most affordable options.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $54,723

Avg. graduation rate 54%

Avg. net price $7,289

Avg. median debt $16,096

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY

Graduation55%

Earnings$60,752

Net Price$3,103

View full profile →

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY

Graduation50%

Earnings$58,013

Net Price$3,148

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

With a median earnings figure of $75,971 a decade after graduation, CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College presents a compelling case for students seeking a solid return on their educational investment. The New York City location offers a vibrant environment for networking and career opportunities, which can be particularly attractive for those looking to enter competitive fields such as business and finance. Baruch's diverse student body includes 57% Pell Grant recipients, highlighting its commitment to accessibility and support for low-income students.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College attracts students with its rich history and commitment to liberal arts education. Known for a supportive community, it has a diverse enrollment of 10,543 students, with 57% receiving Pell Grants, demonstrating a strong focus on inclusivity. Despite a lower graduation rate of 55%, the college’s unique offerings and engaging campus life can provide valuable experiences for students willing to invest their time and effort.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College offers a unique opportunity for students in the Bronx, emphasizing its role as a community anchor. With a diverse enrollment of 10,696 students and a significant 60% of them receiving Pell Grants, Lehman is dedicated to supporting low-income students. While its graduation rate is 50%, the college fosters a nurturing environment that encourages students to persist, particularly those who thrive in a close-knit community.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College presents a compelling opportunity for students seeking a strong academic environment in the heart of Manhattan. With an enrollment of over 16,000 students, Hunter is known for its rigorous programs and commitment to diversity, as evidenced by its 56% Pell Grant recipient rate, which includes many first-generation college students.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College is a solid choice for students looking for an affordable education in New York City. With a diverse student body of over 12,500, the college emphasizes access and inclusion, reflected in its 47% Pell Grant recipient rate, which speaks to its commitment to low-income students.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida is an attractive option for students seeking a large public university experience with strong academic credentials. With a graduation rate of 91% and a diverse student population of over 35,600, UF combines a vibrant campus life with a reputation for excellence in research and education across various fields.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

CUNY York College in Jamaica, New York, serves around 4,345 students, fostering a close-knit community within a bustling metropolis. While the graduation rate is lower at 31%, the college still attracts a diverse student population, with 40% receiving Pell Grants. This diversity enhances the learning experience, allowing students to engage with different perspectives while pursuing their academic interests.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

University of Florida-Online appeals to students looking for flexibility without sacrificing quality. With an impressive 81% graduation rate, the online format allows learners to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. The median earnings of $71,588 a decade after graduation highlight the potential for a solid financial return on this educational investment, making it a strong contender for those looking to advance in their careers while studying remotely.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University stands out with an impressive graduation rate of 74%, a strong indicator of student success. Located in Miami, this large public university enrolls over 39,000 students and serves a diverse population, with 41% of students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility and support for lower-income families.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#10

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College sits in the heart of Brooklyn and serves a diverse student body of over 3,200. While the college has a graduation rate of just 21%, it offers a vibrant community where students are encouraged to engage with their studies and each other, paving the way for personal growth and resilience in a bustling urban environment.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

With a vibrant campus located in sunny Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University serves over 23,000 students and focuses on creating a supportive educational environment. The school has a diverse student body, with 34% of its students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#12

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is a smaller institution in Chickasha, enrolling about 941 students. Known for its focus on liberal arts, the university aims to foster creativity and critical thinking in a close-knit environment.

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant, OK · 3,018 students · Public

With a welcoming community of around 3,000 students, Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant offers a chance for students to thrive in a close-knit environment. The graduation rate sits at 32%, but the focus here is on helping students succeed beyond the classroom, as reflected in the median earnings of $45,079 after ten years.

76% accepted 32% graduate $45,079 earnings

Southeastern's full profile

#14

Texas A & M International University

Laredo, TX · 6,667 students · Public

With a student body of 6,667, Texas A & M International University cultivates a vibrant community in Laredo, Texas. The institution prides itself on a commitment to access and affordability, attracting a diverse population, with 65% of its students receiving Pell Grants. This focus on inclusivity creates a supportive environment for all learners, making it a compelling choice for those who value community engagement and cultural diversity.

44% accepted 48% graduate $48,386 earnings

CUNY City College

New York, NY · 12,505 students · Public

CUNY City College serves as a gateway to opportunity for over 12,500 students in the heart of New York City. With a graduation rate of 56%, the college has a solid track record of helping students reach their academic goals. The diverse campus reflects the city’s vibrant culture, creating an enriching environment for learning and personal growth, where every student can find their niche in a bustling urban setting.

60% accepted 56% graduate $66,039 earnings

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY · 8,246 students · Public

With over 8,200 students, Northern Kentucky University is a vibrant hub of learning in Highland Heights, Kentucky. The school has a diverse range of programs and a welcoming community that encourages involvement and growth among students.

68% accepted 50% graduate $50,220 earnings

Northern's full profile

#17

Indiana University-Kokomo

Kokomo, IN · 2,352 students · Public

Indiana University-Kokomo offers a more intimate college experience with a focus on community engagement and hands-on learning. With a smaller enrollment of just over 2,300 students, the university provides personalized attention and support, making it a great fit for students who prefer a close-knit environment.

86% accepted 45% graduate $49,917 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#18

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

Located in vibrant Tampa, the University of South Florida serves a large student body of over 37,000. A graduation rate of 76% reflects a robust support system that helps students navigate their academic journeys, leading to median earnings of $57,743 a decade after graduation.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College, located in Berea, Kentucky, is unique in its commitment to providing a tuition-free education to students who demonstrate financial need. With a graduation rate of 60% and an impressive 84% of its students receiving Pell Grants, the college prioritizes accessibility and support for lower-income families. The close-knit community fosters relationships among students and faculty, creating a nurturing environment that encourages academic and personal growth.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

Dalton State College

Dalton, GA · 4,553 students · Public

Dalton State College is home to about 4,500 students and has a unique charm. With an acceptance rate of 100%, it welcomes all who seek to advance their education. Nearly half of its students receive Pell Grants, indicating that the college is designed to support those from lower-income backgrounds who might feel uncertain about attending college.

28% graduate $40,251 earnings

Dalton's full profile

#21

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · 8,106 students · Public

91% accepted 47% graduate $54,735 earnings

Ferris's full profile

#22

University of Puerto Rico-Aguadilla

Aguadilla, PR · 1,883 students · Public

Nestled in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, the University of Puerto Rico-Aguadilla serves a smaller, close-knit community of 1,883 students. Despite its size, it maintains a strong acceptance rate of 81%, showing a commitment to providing education to local students eager for higher learning opportunities.

81% accepted 47% graduate $27,997 earnings

University's full profile

#23

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI · 12,351 students · Public

88% accepted 57% graduate $58,612 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#24

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

#25

Christian Brothers University

Memphis, TN · 905 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Memphis, Tennessee, Christian Brothers University serves around 905 students with a strong sense of community and values. The 55% graduation rate suggests a supportive atmosphere, ideal for students who appreciate a close-knit environment focused on personal and academic growth.

87% accepted 55% graduate $57,478 earnings

Christian's full profile

#26

Marshall University

Huntington, WV · 7,266 students · Public

96% accepted 50% graduate $46,354 earnings

Marshall's full profile

#27

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#28

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

Located in bustling Jacksonville, the University of North Florida is home to over 13,000 students and offers a rich academic environment. With a graduation rate of 69%, the school fosters a supportive atmosphere where students can pursue their goals and succeed.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#29

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

With over 59,000 students, the University of Central Florida is one of the largest universities in the country. It has a graduation rate of 77%, which suggests a supportive environment where students can thrive and complete their degrees.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#30

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University, nestled in Tallahassee, is home to over 32,000 students and boasts a graduation rate of 84%. This higher completion rate contributes to solid median earnings of $61,675 after ten years, indicating strong job prospects for graduates entering the workforce.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#31

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, NC · 5,762 students · Public

82% accepted 37% graduate $40,144 earnings

Fayetteville's full profile

#33

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of nearly 20,000, California State University-Los Angeles plays a pivotal role in the heart of Los Angeles. A significant 66% of its students receive Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and support for low-income families looking for higher education opportunities.

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California's full profile

#34

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

#35

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology, located in the vibrant city of Atlanta, is known for its rigorous academic programs and a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. With nearly 19,000 students, it attracts those who are driven and passionate about technology and engineering fields.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#37

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

California State University-Fullerton is home to a diverse student body of over 38,500, making it one of the largest universities in California. With a graduation rate of 70%, it reflects a strong commitment to helping students succeed while fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

#38

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

With a sizable student body of nearly 10,000, the College of Staten Island is a vibrant option for those seeking a public university experience in New York. Its 33% graduation rate may raise eyebrows, but it's important to note that 50% of its students receive Pell Grants, reflecting a commitment to accessibility for lower-income families.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

#39

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA · 15,023 students · Public

California State University-San Bernardino serves a diverse population of over 15,000 students, making it a solid choice for those looking for a public university in California's Inland Empire. The graduation rate of 55% reflects the institution's efforts to support student success, particularly among its 58% Pell Grant recipients who often thrive in this environment.

94% accepted 55% graduate $59,977 earnings

California's full profile

#40

Clayton State University

Morrow, GA · 4,348 students · Public

68% accepted 38% graduate $49,179 earnings

Clayton's full profile

#41

Murray State University

Murray, KY · 6,688 students · Public

86% accepted 60% graduate $44,737 earnings

Murray's full profile

#42

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX · 8,150 students · Public

86% accepted 37% graduate $49,652 earnings

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX · 28,666 students · Public

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley stands as a beacon of opportunity in Edinburg, Texas, with a strong enrollment of 28,666 students. The school’s mission to provide accessible education is evident in its impressive 94% acceptance rate, making it a welcoming choice for many aspiring college students in the region.

94% accepted 50% graduate $49,620 earnings

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Northwestern Oklahoma State University

Alva, OK · 1,498 students · Public

65% accepted 33% graduate $44,358 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#47

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College

Tifton, GA · 3,208 students · Public

76% accepted 33% graduate $34,996 earnings

Abraham's full profile

#48

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA · 8,385 students · Public

California State University-Stanislaus, located in Turlock, California, has a welcoming environment with a focus on student success. It has an impressive acceptance rate of 98%, making it accessible for many students, while the graduation rate of 56% shows that a significant number of students do complete their degrees and move on to promising careers.

98% accepted 56% graduate $63,188 earnings

California's full profile

#49

CUNY New York City College of Technology

Brooklyn, NY · 13,580 students · Public

CUNY New York City College of Technology in Brooklyn offers a unique urban experience for students looking to thrive in a dynamic environment. With an acceptance rate of 80% and a focus on practical skills, the college attracts many students who are ready to engage in hands-on learning, even though the graduation rate is notably low at 20%.

80% accepted 20% graduate $49,365 earnings

University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon

Bayamon, PR · 2,851 students · Public

At the University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon, a smaller campus of about 2,851 students allows for a more intimate learning experience. With a graduation rate of 34%, the university focuses on supporting students through their academic challenges, and graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $34,409 ten years after completing their degree.

35% accepted 34% graduate $34,409 earnings

University's full profile

When we look closely at the data, we see that CUNY Bernard M Baruch College stands out not only for its high earnings but also its graduation rate of 72%. In contrast, CUNY Lehman College, while still offering an affordable education with a net price of $3,148, has a graduation rate of only 50% and lower earnings at $58,013. This pattern suggests that while Lehman is a cost-effective choice, Baruch may provide better long-term financial benefits for graduates.

After reviewing 50 schools, it’s essential to weigh the data against personal priorities. Consider location if you want to stay close to home, or program fit if a specific business niche interests you. Campus culture can also play a significant role in your satisfaction and success. Look at the net prices and debt levels: a slightly higher net price may be worth it for a school with better graduation rates and earning potential.

Ultimately, this data highlights the significant impact of college choice on future earnings and stability. For families making decisions, it comes down to a balance of affordability and long-term outcomes. Each school on this list represents a potential path to success, but it’s crucial to align that with your family's financial situation and career goals.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

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). →

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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