Business/Commerce at Itawamba Community College

Itawamba Community College's business program stands out for one thing: remarkably low debt at $4,840—less than half what other Mississippi schools charge and far below the national median of $13,437. That alone makes it worth serious consideration, especially for families worried about cost. The catch is those first-year earnings of $24,813, which trail both the state median ($27,012) and lag well behind the national average.

Here's where it gets interesting: graduates see solid 35% earnings growth to $33,485 by year four, closing much of that gap. While the program ranks in just the 40th percentile statewide initially, that minimal debt load creates breathing room other programs don't offer. At 0.20 debt-to-earnings, graduates owe less than three months' salary—a manageable burden that won't derail other financial goals. Compare that to programs charging $10,000-13,000 where students face the same regional job market.

For Mississippi families, this is a pragmatic choice rather than an impressive one. Your child won't match the earnings of peers at Strayer (though they're paying far less), but they'll enter the workforce without crushing debt and see steady income growth. If keeping costs low matters more than maximizing starting salary, Itawamba delivers functional business training at a price that actually makes sense.