Business Administration, Management and Operations at Columbia College

Columbia College business graduates earn $53,748 in their first year—ranking in the 80th percentile among Missouri business programs and outperforming the state median by more than $11,000. That's a significant premium, though graduates carry $33,703 in debt, which is notably higher than both the state and national median of $26,000. With 44% of students receiving Pell grants, many families are borrowing to access what appears to be a strong regional network.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 is manageable, meaning graduates owe less than eight months of salary. However, the flat earnings trajectory should raise questions: four years out, median pay actually dips slightly to $53,404. While some business careers start strong and plateau, this pattern suggests graduates may be hitting a ceiling earlier than expected, particularly when you see top earners from nearby Ranken Technical College making $73,200.

For families comfortable with above-average borrowing, Columbia College delivers above-average starting outcomes in Missouri's business job market. Just understand you're paying a premium—about $7,700 more in debt than typical Missouri business grads—for what amounts to a strong launch but uncertain upward mobility. If cost is a primary concern, programs with similar early earnings and lower debt exist across the state.