Insurance at Appalachian State University

Appalachian State's insurance program hits above its weight in North Carolina—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide—while keeping debt significantly below national levels. Graduates finish with just $18,625 in debt, roughly $4,000 less than the typical insurance graduate nationally, and they're earning a solid middle-class salary of $55,611 within a year. That 0.33 debt-to-earnings ratio means students could theoretically pay off their loans in four months of gross income, an excellent starting position for a specialized business degree.

The earnings trajectory shows healthy growth—up 16% to $64,611 by year four—suggesting the specialized knowledge actually compounds in value as graduates gain industry experience. While national earnings are essentially average for the field (49th percentile), the combination of moderate debt and steady income growth creates a practical path to financial stability. North Carolina's insurance industry is substantial, and Appalachian State appears to be the sole in-state option for this specific credential, which may explain the program's regional traction.

For families concerned about college ROI, this represents a straightforward value: manageable debt, immediate earning potential, and a clear career path in a stable industry. The specialized nature of the degree means students should be reasonably certain about pursuing insurance careers, but those who commit aren't gambling with outsized debt loads.