Business Operations Support and Assistant Services at Onondaga Cortland Madison BOCES

Onondaga Cortland Madison BOCES manages to outperform 80% of New York programs in this field—a significant achievement given that its graduates earn about $8,800 more annually than the state median of $22,570. At $31,400 in first-year earnings, it also beats the national median by $6,300, placing in the 91st percentile nationwide. The debt burden of $6,715 is notably light, half the state average and well below the national median, making this one of the more affordable pathways into business support roles.

The earnings plateau between years one and four merits consideration—this appears to be a field where compensation stabilizes quickly rather than growing substantially over time. However, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.21, graduates can clear their debt burden relatively quickly even without salary growth. The 60% Pell grant population suggests the program serves primarily students for whom minimizing debt is critical.

For families seeking practical business skills training without the cost and time commitment of a four-year degree, this certificate delivers solid value. The combination of above-average starting wages, minimal debt, and strong regional placement makes it a sensible choice for students ready to enter the workforce quickly, though they should understand they're likely earning close to their ceiling from day one.