Business Administration, Management and Operations at Hillsborough Community College

Hillsborough Community College turns in a solid performance for an associate's degree in business administration, with graduates earning $41,236 within their first year—well above both the national median ($33,977) and Florida's median ($39,010) for this credential. The program ranks in the 81st percentile nationally, meaning it outperforms four out of five comparable programs across the country. Within Florida's competitive landscape of 59 programs, it sits comfortably in the 60th percentile, trailing specialized institutions like Embry-Riddle but delivering stronger outcomes than many peers.

The debt picture is equally practical. At $14,719, graduates carry significantly less than Florida's median of $20,063 for this degree, resulting in a manageable 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio—graduates owe roughly four months of their annual salary. With 42% of students receiving Pell grants, the college clearly serves working families who need affordable pathways to better-paying jobs.

For families in the Tampa area looking at two-year business programs, this represents a straightforward value proposition: reasonable debt, above-average earnings, and a community college price tag. The first-year salary won't match what university graduates command, but neither will the debt burden. If your student wants to enter the workforce quickly or plans to transfer credits later, this program delivers what it promises without financial gymnastics.