Business Operations Support and Assistant Services at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

With nearly $30,000 in first-year earnings and debt below $17,000, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College's business operations program delivers a debt load you could reasonably pay off within a few years of graduation. The 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio sits well within manageable territory—considerably better than many associate degree programs. However, the small graduating class (under 30 students) means these figures could shift significantly year to year, so they're more of a snapshot than a guarantee.

The earnings here land right in the middle of the pack both statewide and nationally, beating about 60% of comparable programs. That's respectable for a community college credential, though it also means this isn't a standout performer. The higher debt percentile (75th nationally) is somewhat concerning—this program carries more debt than three-quarters of similar programs nationally—but Mississippi's lower cost of living makes that $29,000 salary stretch further than it would elsewhere.

For a student seeking quick entry into administrative or office management roles, this program offers a practical path without crushing debt. Just understand you're looking at modest but stable earning potential rather than exceptional financial returns, and the small cohort size means next year's outcomes could look quite different.