Business Administration, Management and Operations at Brescia University

A debt load approaching $25,000 for an associate's degree in business management deserves careful scrutiny, especially when Kentucky's community colleges offer similar programs at roughly half that cost. Based on comparable programs statewide, first-year earnings around $35,800 align with state averages for this credential, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68 means graduates would owe more than eight months of their first-year salary—considerably higher than the state median debt of $16,255 for this program.

The community college comparison is particularly stark. Schools like Gateway Community and Technical College report graduates earning over $43,000 with significantly lower debt burdens. Even Owensboro Community and Technical College—in the same city as Brescia—shows reported outcomes near $39,000. While Brescia serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (43%), the estimated debt premium doesn't appear justified by earnings advantages that peer programs typically produce.

For families considering this program, the math is straightforward: similar associate's degrees in Kentucky cost $8,000-10,000 less while producing comparable or better earnings outcomes. Unless Brescia offers unique value through connections, flexible scheduling, or support services that dramatically improve your child's likelihood of completion, the estimated financial picture suggests exploring Kentucky's community college system first. The difference in debt could mean years of additional financial flexibility after graduation.