Business/Commerce at Kent State University at Trumbull

Kent State Trumbull's business associate degree lands students right at Ohio's median earnings—$38,871 after one year—which actually beats 58% of similar programs nationwide. The debt load of $20,565 sits well below the typical bachelor's degree burden, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53. For families in Northeast Ohio seeking an affordable entry point to business careers, this represents a solid baseline option.

The concerning element here is the earnings trajectory: graduates see a 3% decline by year four rather than growth. This suggests the associate degree may not open doors to advancement opportunities, or that local job market conditions limit upward mobility. That said, the moderate sample size means we're looking at 30-100 graduates, so individual career paths can vary significantly from these medians.

The bottom line: This program delivers immediate, average earnings at below-average cost—a reasonable combination for students who need to enter the workforce quickly or plan to continue their education while working. However, families banking on earnings growth should recognize that advancement may require additional credentials. For students certain about staying in the Trumbull County area and needing an affordable start, this works. Those with flexibility might compare outcomes at James A. Rhodes State College, where similar programs show notably higher earnings.