Business/Commerce at Southeastern University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67 looks manageable on paper, but the uncertainty here is significant. Based on similar business programs nationally, this associate's degree might yield around $36,600 in first-year earnings against an estimated $24,500 in debt. However, Florida's business associate programs typically produce substantially higher earnings—the state median sits at $43,935—suggesting this program could underperform its local market by roughly $7,000 annually if these estimates hold true.

The debt figure deserves particular scrutiny. At an estimated $24,500, it's nearly double the national median of $13,437 for business associate degrees, though closer to Florida's state median of $31,627. For a two-year credential at a school with a 74% admission rate, that's a substantial borrowing load, especially when graduates from Florida's top programs like Strayer and DeVry are clearing $44,000 in their first year out.

The core challenge is that you're making a financial decision based entirely on estimates from peer institutions rather than this school's actual graduate outcomes. If your child is serious about business, compare this option against Florida's community colleges, which typically offer business associate degrees at lower costs. Without concrete data showing Southeastern's graduates actually land jobs that justify this debt level, treating this as a high-risk investment is prudent.