Business Administration, Management and Operations at Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University's online business associate's program launches graduates into surprisingly strong earnings—nearly $50,000 in the first year, which outperforms 95% of similar programs nationwide. That's $16,000 above the typical business associate's degree holder and even beats the Alabama state median by nearly $10,000. The debt load of $21,764 sits well below Alabama's typical $30,286 for this program, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 that's manageable by any measure.

The catch is subtle but worth noting: earnings dip slightly to $48,154 by year four rather than growing. This likely reflects the program's online format attracting working adults who are already established in their careers—they're credentialing up for lateral moves or stability rather than climbing a steep salary ladder. Among Alabama's business programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, meaning it's solid but not elite at the state level despite its national standing.

For a parent, the calculus is straightforward. Your child would graduate with debt equivalent to less than half a year's salary and immediate earning power that exceeds most bachelor's degree holders in other fields. If they're self-motivated enough to complete an online program and want to enter the workforce quickly while keeping debt manageable, this delivers clear value. Just understand the earnings plateau—this is about stable, decent income, not rapid advancement.