Median Earnings (1yr)
$46,989
95th percentile (60th in AK)
Median Debt
$21,750
56% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.46
Manageable
Sample Size
22
Limited data

Analysis

Charter College graduates in this business program earn nearly $47,000 right after graduation—well above the $34,000 national median and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally. That's impressive initial performance, though it sits at the 60th percentile among Alaska's seven business programs, suggesting strong statewide outcomes in this field. The $21,750 in median debt is higher than the national average but translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46.

The concerning pattern here is the earnings trajectory: graduates see their income drop 20% by year four, falling to $37,500. This backward slide is unusual and could reflect Alaska's economic volatility, seasonal employment patterns, or graduates leaving the state for lower cost-of-living areas. With over half of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are counting on stable career growth that this data doesn't show.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could swing significantly with just a few data points. For families considering this program, the strong starting salary is real, but you need a clear plan for maintaining or growing that income over time—whether that means pursuing a bachelor's degree, targeting specific industries, or understanding Alaska's employment landscape before committing to this path.

Where Charter College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations associates's programs nationally

Charter CollegeOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Charter College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Charter College graduates earn $47k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all business administration, management and operations associates programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Alaska

Business Administration, Management and Operations associates's programs at peer institutions in Alaska (7 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Charter College$46,989$37,493$21,7500.46
National Median$33,977—$13,9800.41

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Charter College, approximately 56% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 22 graduates with reported earnings and 65 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.