Business Administration, Management and Operations at Ilisagvik College

Ilisagvik College serves a unique student population in Alaska's far north, but the estimated debt burden here deserves careful scrutiny. While comparable business programs in Alaska suggest first-year earnings around $47,200—roughly matching the national median—the estimated $30,750 in debt exceeds what's typical nationally by nearly $5,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 isn't catastrophic, but it means your student would likely carry about eight months' worth of gross income in debt, which can feel substantial when living in one of America's most expensive regions.

The reality is that Alaska's small number of business programs makes these estimates particularly uncertain. The three other AK programs with reported data show earnings ranging from $46,900 to $51,450, suggesting some graduates do better than the median estimate. However, without actual outcome data from Ilisagvik's own graduates, you're essentially betting on whether this remote program can match what larger Alaska campuses deliver. The higher-than-national debt estimate is particularly concerning given Alaska's high cost of living—what looks like manageable debt on paper can feel much heavier when rent, heating, and basic goods cost significantly more.

If your child is committed to staying in Alaska's North Slope region, this may be the only accessible option. But if relocation is possible after graduation, compare this carefully against Alaska Anchorage's stronger earnings track record or even lower-debt business programs in the Lower 48.