Business Administration, Management and Operations at McKendree University

Business administration programs in Illinois vary dramatically, with top associate's degree earners clearing $60,000 while others barely reach $40,000. Based on comparable programs across the state, McKendree graduates likely enter the workforce around $43,736—solid for an associate's degree and well above the national median of $34,000, though trailing the strongest community college options like Harper or College of DuPage by $15,000 or more.

The estimated debt of $24,000 is the sticking point. That's nearly double the typical debt load for business associate's programs in Illinois and significantly higher than the national median of $14,000. At a 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio, graduates would be dedicating a meaningful portion of early-career income to loan payments—manageable, but tighter than what families might expect from a two-year credential. The question becomes whether McKendree's private institution experience justifies carrying twice the debt of nearby community colleges that appear to produce similar or better earnings outcomes.

For families weighing this investment, the key issue is whether there's something specific about McKendree's program—network, curriculum, transfer options to a bachelor's—that makes the additional borrowing worthwhile. Otherwise, Illinois community colleges offering the same credential with half the debt and comparable earnings represent a more straightforward path to a positive return.