Business/Commerce at Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo

Bryant & Stratton College-Buffalo's Business/Commerce associate degree sits right at the median for New York State, with graduates earning just over $30,000. That might sound modest, but it's important context: among New York's associate business programs, this actually hits the 60th percentile—a majority of similar in-state programs produce lower earnings. The $24,509 debt load is higher than the national average for this degree, though the 0.82 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than one year's salary, which is manageable territory.

The challenge here is the national comparison—this program ranks in just the 22nd percentile nationwide, where the median business associate degree produces $36,600 in earnings. The earnings trajectory shows minimal growth over four years (just 2%), suggesting graduates may hit an early ceiling or that entry-level business support roles don't naturally advance without additional credentials. With two-thirds of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves students with limited resources who need immediate workforce entry.

For families weighing this option, the question is whether $30,000 starting salaries make sense given your financial situation and Buffalo's cost of living. This isn't a high-growth pathway, but the debt is controllable and graduates do work. If your child can live at home initially or you're committed to staying in New York where these outcomes are competitive, the numbers work. If four-year options are financially accessible, though, that investment typically pays off better for business degrees.