Business Administration, Management and Operations at North Dakota State College of Science

The small sample size here demands caution, but North Dakota State College of Science's business program appears to underperform its local competition while keeping debt manageable. Starting earnings of $31,594 trail both the state median ($36,138) and national benchmark ($33,977), landing this program in the 40th percentile among North Dakota's 11 associate business programs. That means students at Rasmussen University-North Dakota and Williston State College are entering the workforce with significantly higher earning power—nearly $12,000 more in Rasmussen's case.

The positive news is contained debt ($14,762) and steady earnings progression, with graduates seeing a 16% bump to $36,595 by year four. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47 is reasonable for an associate degree, meaning graduates aren't taking on crushing financial obligations. However, catching up to peers who started ahead raises questions about opportunity cost—those four years of earnings growth might simply bring graduates to where competitors' alumni began.

For families weighing this program, the decision hinges on geographic constraints and alternative options. If Wahpeton offers proximity or logistical advantages that Williston doesn't, the debt load won't derail a graduate's finances. But if Rasmussen or Williston State are viable alternatives, the earnings gap suggests looking there first. The limited sample size also means these numbers could shift significantly with more data—something worth monitoring if this program is seriously under consideration.