Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection at College of the Canyons

With estimated debt under $11,000 and first-year earnings around $44,380, this construction management associate's degree from College of the Canyons shows promise as a relatively low-risk credential. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 suggests graduates could potentially manage their loan burden on entry-level construction salaries—though these figures come from comparable programs nationally, not from this school's specific outcomes. California's robust construction sector and the shortage of skilled construction professionals could work in graduates' favor, particularly in the greater Los Angeles area where College of the Canyons is located.

The real test will be whether this program connects students to California's higher-paying construction markets. National data shows the top quarter of similar programs produce first-year earnings above $53,000, suggesting there's significant variation in outcomes depending on local demand and program quality. Since we're working with estimates here, your student should verify the program's industry connections, apprenticeship opportunities, and job placement support before committing.

The modest debt load means this program doesn't require hitting the earnings ceiling to be worthwhile, but students serious about construction management should explore whether they'd be better served by entering the field directly through apprenticeships or union training programs that often pay while you learn.