Business Administration, Management and Operations at North Hennepin Community College

North Hennepin's associate degree in business management produces earnings that crush the national average—graduates earn $47,361 in their first year compared to just $34,000 nationally, landing this program in the 95th percentile. However, the Minnesota context tells a more nuanced story. At the 60th percentile statewide, this program performs solidly but doesn't lead the pack in a state with exceptionally strong community college business programs. Still, graduates here out-earn those from well-regarded competitors like Rasmussen and Rochester Community College, while maintaining reasonable debt of $21,210.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 is quite manageable—graduates earn more than double their debt in the first year alone. Earnings grow modestly to $49,089 by year four, showing steady career progression rather than explosive growth. This stability matters for an associate degree that gets students into the workforce quickly without the extended investment of a bachelor's program.

For Minnesota families, this represents a strong value play. Your child would be choosing a program that outperforms 95% of similar programs nationwide while keeping debt below both state and national medians. The earnings may not top Minnesota's leaderboard, but they provide a solid foundation for career advancement or continuing education, with minimal financial risk.