Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
In Michigan, business associate's programs produce widely different outcomes, and when data is limited—as it is here—the numbers from peer institutions tell an important story. Grace Christian's estimated $24,509 in debt sits well above both the state median of $20,810 and the national median of $13,437 for this credential. That's nearly $11,000 more debt than typical business associate's graduates carry nationwide. Meanwhile, the estimated first-year earnings of $37,532 align with Michigan's median but represent the lower end of what's possible—Davenport University's graduates, for instance, earn over $49,000.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 means borrowers would owe roughly two-thirds of their first-year salary, which is manageable but only if earnings grow steadily. For a school serving 50% Pell-eligible students, that debt burden matters significantly. The challenge isn't that earnings are poor—$37,500 can support an entry-level career—but that Grace Christian's estimated debt load appears higher than what you'd find at community colleges offering similar credentials with comparable outcomes.
Before committing, compare the actual cost you'd pay at Grace Christian against nearby community colleges offering business programs. If the final debt figure approaches these estimates, you're paying a premium without evidence of stronger career outcomes to justify it.
Where Grace Christian University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Business/Commerce associates's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (19 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,992 | $37,532* | — | $24,509* | — | |
| $23,324 | $49,530* | $48,012 | $31,338* | 0.63 | |
| $3,600 | $37,532* | $47,984 | $10,281* | 0.27 | |
| $3,460 | $34,003* | $39,692 | $32,406* | 0.95 | |
| National Median | — | $36,591* | — | $13,437* | 0.37 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Grace Christian University, approximately 50% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.