Business Administration, Management and Operations at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

This program charges remarkably little—just $4,500 in median debt, among the lowest 5% nationally for business associate degrees—but the earnings picture reveals why. Graduates earn $21,380 in their first year, which falls below even the Puerto Rico median of $28,156 for this degree and ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally. More troubling, earnings actually decline to under $20,000 by year four, suggesting graduates struggle to advance beyond entry-level positions.

The comparison within Puerto Rico is telling: NUC University's business graduates earn $35,000, nearly 75% more than Inter American-Ponce. Even at the state's 25th percentile, this program underperforms most Puerto Rican alternatives. While the low debt means manageable monthly payments of perhaps $50, starting at $21,000 means extreme budget constraints—that's roughly $1,780 monthly before taxes, making student loan payments feasible but leaving little room for other financial goals.

For families considering this program, the minimal debt is genuinely positive, especially given that 82% of students receive Pell grants. However, the earning power simply doesn't justify even two years of opportunity cost. If business administration is the goal, other Puerto Rican institutions demonstrate significantly stronger employment outcomes. This program might work for students who need credentials while already employed, but shouldn't be the first choice for those seeking career entry or advancement through education alone.