Business Administration, Management and Operations at Lansing Community College

Lansing Community College's business program stands out nationally—ranking in the 89th percentile—but faces stiff competition from other Michigan community colleges. The program delivers $43,026 in first-year earnings, placing it roughly $7,000 ahead of both state and national medians for associate business degrees. That's a meaningful advantage, though nearby Macomb Community College edges it out slightly at $43,491.

The challenge? Earnings drop to $37,632 by year four, a 12% decline that's worth understanding. This isn't necessarily alarming—it could reflect graduates moving on to bachelor's programs or taking positions with different compensation structures as they advance. At $17,248 in median debt (40% of first-year earnings), the financial burden remains manageable even with this earnings dip.

For Michigan families, this program offers solid value despite ranking in the state's 60th percentile. The first-year earnings advantage is real, and the debt load sits below what students at many other Michigan programs carry. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation, those strong initial earnings provide a decent runway. If they're using this as a stepping stone to a four-year degree, the moderate debt won't become an anchor.