Business Operations Support and Assistant Services at San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia

San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia's business operations program lands squarely in the middle of the pack—hitting exactly the national median for both earnings ($28,691 first year out) and debt ($20,000). What's more encouraging is that it outperforms 60% of California programs in the same field, suggesting this particular campus delivers slightly better outcomes than most in-state alternatives. The 21% earnings growth over four years is solid, pushing graduates to nearly $35,000 by year four, which helps the debt load become more manageable over time.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 means graduates owe about 8.5 months of first-year salary—not ideal, but workable if employment is consistent. Given that half the student body receives Pell grants, this program clearly serves students who need affordable pathways to steady work. Business operations roles won't make anyone wealthy, but they're stable positions that exist across industries.

The real question is whether $20,000 in debt for a $28,691 starting salary makes sense for your family. If your child needs credentials quickly and has limited options for four-year programs, this delivers predictable outcomes. But if they can access community college at lower cost or pursue a bachelor's degree without significantly more debt, those routes likely offer better long-term value. This program works for students who need to start earning sooner rather than later.