Business Administration at Purdue University-Main Campus
A 50% admission rate makes Purdue University-Main Campus accessible to a wide range of qualified students, serving a student body of 39,637 in West Lafayette, IN.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $71,977 put Purdue University-Main Campus's Business Administration program 103% above the national median of $35,542 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
With a 76.8x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Business Administration career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
With first-year pay of $71,977 far exceeding the $19,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Purdue University-Main Campus ranks #12 among 455 Business Administration programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The limited growth from $71,977 to $76,560 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
The 28 apprenticeship pathways connected to Business Administration reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Business Administration graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief executives | $206,420 | +4.3% | 44% |
| Computer and information systems managers | $171,200 | +15.2% | 47% |
| Architectural and engineering managers | $167,740 | +3.8% | 59% |
Business Administration Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Business Administration careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering business & office.
Compare & Explore
Business Administration Overview
Business Administration at Other Schools
Other Majors at Purdue University-Main Campus
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.