Business Administration, Management and Operations at College of Southern Idaho

The College of Southern Idaho's business management program produces graduates earning $34,368 initially—right at both the national and state median—but with notably lower debt than typical programs. At $12,375, that debt load sits comfortably below the national median of $13,980, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 that most families would find manageable.

What makes this program particularly interesting is the earnings trajectory. Graduates see an 11% salary bump by year four, reaching $38,264, which pushes them closer to the 75th percentile nationally. That steady climb suggests the associate's degree opens doors to progressive opportunities rather than dead-end entry positions. Among Idaho's limited field of seven business programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile—squarely middle-of-the-pack, but with that debt advantage working in its favor.

The catch: fewer than 30 students in this cohort, which means these numbers could shift considerably with different data. Still, the core economics make sense for students targeting local business opportunities in southern Idaho. You're looking at a modest upfront cost that can be paid down relatively quickly, with earnings that grow as graduates gain experience. For families wary of four-year debt loads, this represents a practical entry point into business careers.