Business Administration, Management and Operations at Temple College

The $13,229 reported four years after graduation raises immediate questions about this certificate's career trajectory. While comparable Texas business programs suggest first-year earnings around $38,000—right in line with state and national medians—that sharp drop by year four is troubling. Either graduates are leaving the field, working part-time, or this credential isn't opening doors to stable employment. The estimated $15,250 in debt isn't unreasonable for a certificate program, but debt becomes a heavier burden when earnings stall or decline instead of growing.

The fact that 40% of students receive Pell grants means many families here are counting on this program to deliver upward mobility, not a paycheck that falls below poverty wages four years out. Other Texas community colleges—Dallas College, Tarrant County, Lone Star—report business certificate graduates earning well into the $40,000s in their first year, suggesting this pattern isn't universal to short-term business credentials in the state.

Before enrolling, demand transparency from Temple College about what's happening to their business certificate graduates. Are they transferring credits elsewhere? Working in roles unrelated to the credential? The disconnect between estimated early earnings and reported later outcomes needs explanation before your family commits time and money to this path.