Analysis
In Washington, business administration associate programs show significant variation in outcomes, with comparable institutions producing first-year earnings ranging from about $20,000 to over $42,000. Peninsula College's estimated figures—$35,023 in earnings and $16,084 in debt—land squarely in the middle of this range, suggesting neither standout performance nor concerning underperformance relative to peer programs.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 based on these estimates means roughly five months of gross income would be needed to cover the total borrowing. This sits slightly above both state and national median debt levels for business associate degrees, though the difference is modest. What matters more is that similar programs across Washington demonstrate that outcomes can vary by tens of thousands of dollars depending on the institution and local job market—Port Angeles's relative isolation and smaller economy likely factor into these middle-of-the-road projections.
For families evaluating this program, the key uncertainty is whether Peninsula's actual outcomes align with these peer-based estimates. The suppressed data could reflect either a small graduating class or students who didn't meet other reporting criteria. Before committing, verify what local employers actually hire Peninsula business graduates for, and at what salaries. In a smaller market like Port Angeles, personal connections and internship opportunities during the program may matter more than the credential itself.
Where Peninsula College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Washington
Business Administration, Management and Operations associates's programs at peer institutions in Washington (34 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,586 | $35,023* | — | $16,084* | — | |
| $6,194 | $42,127* | — | —* | — | |
| — | $38,071* | $37,852 | $13,740* | 0.36 | |
| $4,057 | $31,974* | $27,329 | $20,416* | 0.64 | |
| $4,920 | $20,066* | — | $16,084* | 0.80 | |
| National Median | — | $33,977* | — | $13,980* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Peninsula College, approximately 31% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in WA. Actual outcomes may vary.