Business Administration, Management and Operations at CBT Technology Institute-Main Campus

This program carries an estimated debt load of $30,250—more than double the state median and considerably higher than the national benchmark of $13,980 for business associate degrees. With comparable Florida programs producing first-year earnings around $39,010, graduates would face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.78, meaning nearly 10 months of gross pay needed to cover what they borrowed. That's manageable territory, but the debt level itself stands out as unusually high for a two-year credential, especially when the entire student body receives Pell grants.

The earnings trajectory tells an unusual story. While peer programs in Florida suggest first-year earnings near the state median, this specific program reports actual fourth-year earnings of $37,550—slightly below where graduates start. Business degrees typically offer steady advancement opportunities, so a flat or declining earnings path after four years is worth noting. Florida's strongest business programs produce earnings well above $45,000, with Broward College and St. Petersburg College—both public institutions—showing significantly better outcomes while typically charging less.

The core question is whether taking on $30,000 in debt makes sense when public alternatives exist with similar earnings potential but substantially lower costs. The 0.78 ratio suggests the debt is theoretically serviceable, but that calculation assumes immediate employment at median wages. For a family already needing maximum financial aid, a lower-debt path to the same credential would provide much more breathing room.