Business Operations Support and Assistant Services at Ohio Business College-Sheffield

The most alarming signal here isn't the relatively low starting salary—it's that earnings actually decline 16% by year four, dropping to just $19,174. While this program ranks at the 60th percentile among Ohio business operations programs, that comparison masks a troubling reality: Ohio's median for this credential matches the lowest-performing programs nationally. The $31,683 in debt means graduates owe more than they'll earn in their entire first year, and significantly more than they'll make four years out.

Small sample size is a factor to consider, but the pattern is concerning enough to warrant serious skepticism. With 85% of students receiving Pell grants, this institution serves a vulnerable population that can least afford a declining earnings trajectory. The debt load is particularly punishing compared to the $20,000 national median for similar programs—graduates here are carrying 58% more debt than typical for this degree.

For families considering this investment, understand that business operations associate's degrees generally lead to modest-paying administrative roles, and this particular program appears to underperform even those low benchmarks. Unless your child has specific reasons to attend this institution—like unique family circumstances keeping them local—exploring other Ohio community colleges or business programs would likely yield better financial outcomes. The combination of high debt and declining earnings makes this a risky choice for most families.