Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations at University of Iowa
With 85% of applicants admitted, University of Iowa prioritizes broad access, with 21,691 students enrolled in Iowa City, IA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $46,878 at University of Iowa come in 17% above the national median of $40,209 for Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations programs.
The 64.6x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI exposure is significant at 50% of job tasks, producing a 34% spread between best and worst-case decade earnings. The field isn't immune to disruption.
The $24,250 debt-to-$46,878 income ratio translates to about 6 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
Ranked #4 out of 15 programs, University of Iowa's Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $46,878 to $68,295 shows 46% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations connects to 3 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
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 Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief executives | $206,420 | +4.3% | 44% |
| Managers, all other | $136,550 | +4.5% | 53% |
| General and operations managers | $102,950 | +4.4% | 52% |
About Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Careers
You’re the person who makes a business run. As a general or operations manager, your day is a dynamic mix of problem-solving and planning. One moment you're in QuickBooks analyzing cash flow, the next you're on the shop floor coordinating staff, and then you're on the phone negotiating with a supplier. You might start by managing a single department or assisting a senior manager. With experience, you'll gain the autonomy to run an entire location or business unit. The ultimate goal for many is to apply these skills to launch their own venture, becoming the chief executive who sets the vision and reaps the rewards.
Read the full Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations career guide →
Compare & Explore
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Overview
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Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.