Business Administration, Management and Operations at Florida Career College-Miami

The estimated debt load here—$30,250 for an associate's degree—immediately stands out as higher than what most Florida students face in similar business programs (state median: $20,063) and more than double the national benchmark of $13,980. While peer programs in Florida suggest earnings around $39,010 one year out, which would put this program at the state median, that debt figure means graduates would owe roughly 78% of their first-year salary. For a two-year credential, that's a substantial burden, particularly given that three-quarters of students here receive Pell grants, indicating limited family resources to help manage repayment.

The earnings estimate itself—derived from 18 comparable Florida programs—isn't alarming. It matches the state median and slightly exceeds the national benchmark of $33,977. But context matters: community colleges like Broward and St. Petersburg produce business graduates earning $47,000-$50,000, and their students typically carry far less debt. The fundamental question is whether this private career college offers advantages—perhaps in job placement, schedule flexibility, or targeted training—that justify borrowing 50% more than the state norm for similar outcomes.

Before committing, get specifics on actual graduate outcomes from the school directly. Ask about job placement rates, typical starting positions, and what portion of graduates work in business roles versus retail or service jobs. The estimated numbers suggest a manageable but not impressive return on a notably high debt investment.