Business Administration, Management and Operations at Sullivan University

Sullivan University's business administration associate's program charges nearly double the national median debt ($27,086 vs. $13,980), though graduates see solid earnings growth that helps justify the investment. Starting at $35,788—right at Kentucky's median—earners climb to $47,083 within four years, a 32% jump that outpaces most associate's programs. Among Kentucky's 25 business programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, but several community college alternatives deliver stronger first-year outcomes at significantly lower cost.

The debt load warrants attention. While the 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming by today's standards, students are paying premium tuition ($10,831 above Kentucky's median) for what initially appears to be average market positioning. The upside comes in years 2-4, where earnings acceleration suggests Sullivan's program may offer networking or career support that pays off over time. However, Gateway Community and Technical College graduates earn $43,658 right out of the gate—typically with far less debt.

For families prioritizing long-term earnings trajectory and willing to carry higher initial debt, Sullivan's track record shows the investment can work. But cost-conscious families should compare financial aid packages carefully against Kentucky's community colleges, which deliver competitive early earnings without the debt burden.