Business/Commerce at Community College of Vermont

Community College of Vermont's business program sits right in the middle—not a standout performer, but not a disaster either. Graduates earn about $37,300 initially, barely above the national average for associate-level business programs, with modest growth to $38,900 after four years. In Vermont's limited landscape of three schools offering this degree, CCV lands at the 60th percentile, meaning it performs slightly better than the state median. More notably, students here graduate with $11,000 in debt compared to Vermont's typical $17,800 for similar programs—a meaningful advantage that translates to a manageable 0.29 debt-to-earnings ratio.

The real question is whether these earnings justify even two years of school. At under $40,000 after four years in the workforce, graduates aren't seeing the income trajectory many parents expect from a business degree. The 4% earnings growth is essentially flat when you account for inflation. This suggests the degree opens doors to entry-level positions but may not create a strong launch pad for advancement.

For Vermont families, the lower debt burden is genuine value, especially since many alternatives would mean significantly higher borrowing. But with a sample size under 30 graduates, these numbers could swing considerably year to year. If your child is committed to staying in Vermont and needs an affordable credential to enter the workforce quickly, this works. If they're aiming for management or higher earnings potential, a bachelor's degree—even if it takes longer—will likely prove necessary.