Business Administration, Management and Operations at Lake Region State College

A business administration associate's degree from Lake Region State College appears positioned in the middle of North Dakota's range for this field, with earnings around $36,000-$40,000 in the first few years post-graduation. The estimated $12,000 in debt—derived from similar community college programs nationally—creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33, meaning graduates would owe roughly a third of their first-year salary. That's notably lower than both the state median debt of $14,762 and the national figure of $13,980 for this degree.

The earnings trajectory here looks fairly typical for an associate's in business, hovering near both state and national medians. While the program can't match Rasmussen's graduates who reportedly earn $43,736, it also doesn't lag behind like some competitors. The four-year earnings of $39,639 suggest modest but steady growth. For context, these figures come from just a handful of peer programs in North Dakota, so individual outcomes will vary based on local job opportunities in the Devils Lake area and what role students pursue—administrative assistant versus small business manager makes a significant difference.

For a family considering this program, the key question is whether staying close to home in rural North Dakota justifies mid-range business earnings. The relatively light debt load makes this a lower-risk option, but the ceiling appears limited compared to what you'd see at larger institutions or in business hubs. If your student plans to stay in the region and values affordability over maximum earning potential, this represents a practical path into business roles.