Analysis
Quinsigamond Community College's business program delivers a solid return, particularly when compared to the national landscape. At $42,618 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 16% above the national median for associate-level business programs and rank in the 72nd percentile nationwide. Within Massachusetts, they're performing respectably at the 60th percentile, essentially matching Mount Wachusett CC's outcomes while considerably outpacing most other state options.
The debt picture requires closer attention. At $17,500, borrowing runs significantly higher than both the state median ($9,250) and national median ($13,437) for this degree. However, the 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable—graduates would need roughly five months of gross earnings to cover their debt, which is reasonable for a two-year degree. The higher borrowing might reflect Worcester's cost of living or limited financial aid, but the stronger earnings help offset this concern.
For families weighing community college business programs in Massachusetts, Quinsigamond offers a practical path. The earnings advantage over most in-state alternatives suggests students are gaining marketable skills that translate quickly to the workforce. Just ensure your student understands they'll likely graduate with more debt than peers at other community colleges, even if the final debt load remains modest by national standards.
Where Quinsigamond Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Quinsigamond Community College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Business/Commerce associates's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,974 | $42,618 | — | $17,500 | 0.41 | |
| $6,000 | $42,825 | $52,852 | $9,250 | 0.22 | |
| $5,412 | $35,815 | $39,349 | $7,480 | 0.21 | |
| $5,520 | $19,969 | $42,728 | $7,200 | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $36,591 | — | $13,437 | 0.37 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
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 Quinsigamond Community College, approximately 39% 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 51 graduates with reported earnings and 65 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.