Business/Commerce at Peninsula College

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 suggests this business associate's degree could work financially—comparable programs nationally show first-year graduates earning around $36,600 while carrying roughly $11,500 in debt. That's a manageable burden if the degree opens doors, though it's worth noting that other Washington community colleges with reported outcomes show business graduates earning closer to $40,000 in their first year. The gap between national benchmarks and Washington's higher figures hints that location matters: Peninsula College sits in Port Angeles, a smaller market that may offer fewer immediate career opportunities than urban areas where comparable programs show stronger outcomes.

The real question is whether an associate's in business provides enough specialized skills to justify the debt when entry-level business roles often accept candidates with any degree or relevant experience. With nearly a third of students receiving Pell grants, affordability is clearly a concern for many families here. The debt load is modest compared to four-year programs, but the estimated earnings suggest this credential positions graduates for administrative or support roles rather than management tracks that typically require bachelor's degrees.

For families considering this path: think carefully about whether your student plans to transfer for a bachelor's or enter the workforce directly. If staying local in Port Angeles, investigate which employers actually hire Peninsula's business graduates and at what salaries—these estimates can't tell you that story.