Median Earnings (1yr)
$35,485
35th percentile (60th in NC)
Median Debt
$21,625
47% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.61
Manageable
Sample Size
32
Adequate data

Analysis

Pitt Community College's business certificate produces outcomes that split the difference between state and national expectations in an interesting way. Graduates earn $35,485 their first year—outperforming 60% of North Carolina business certificate programs while falling short of the $39,085 national median. The debt picture is notably better than average, with graduates carrying $21,625 compared to the national median of around $14,700, but this still creates a 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio that's manageable for a certificate program.

The comparison within North Carolina matters most here, and Pitt performs respectably. While top programs like South Piedmont and Guilford Tech push graduates above $40,000, Pitt's $35,485 places it in the middle tier—roughly matching Fayetteville Tech and Wake Tech, both larger institutions. For a community college serving a substantial population of Pell-eligible students, these outcomes suggest the program reliably prepares graduates for entry-level business roles in eastern North Carolina's job market.

The debt load deserves consideration. At $21,625 for a certificate, graduates will need sustained employment to pay this down comfortably. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0 means most graduates should be able to manage payments without excessive strain. For families in Winterville looking at certificate options, this program offers middle-of-the-road value—not exceptional returns, but solid positioning for local business opportunities.

Where Pitt Community College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations certificate's programs nationally

Pitt Community CollegeOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Pitt Community College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Pitt Community College graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 35th percentile of all business administration, management and operations certificate programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina

Business Administration, Management and Operations certificate's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (61 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Pitt Community College$35,485—$21,6250.61
South Piedmont Community College$40,686———
Guilford Technical Community College$40,215$28,685$21,7190.54
Fayetteville Technical Community College$35,845$29,085$14,6990.41
Wake Technical Community College$35,574$38,072$19,0000.53
Davidson-Davie Community College$33,263—$27,2180.82
National Median$39,085—$14,6990.38

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in North Carolina

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across North Carolina schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
South Piedmont Community College
Polkton
$2,022$40,686—
Guilford Technical Community College
Jamestown
$2,319$40,215$21,719
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Fayetteville
$2,628$35,845$14,699
Wake Technical Community College
Raleigh
$2,336$35,574$19,000
Davidson-Davie Community College
Thomasville
$1,978$33,263$27,218

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 Pitt Community College, approximately 38% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 32 graduates with reported earnings and 67 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.