Business Administration, Management and Operations at Williston State College

Williston State College's business associate degree produces graduates earning slightly above the national median at $36,138—though with only a handful of graduates in the data set, individual outcomes could vary significantly. The program lands squarely in the middle of North Dakota options, matching the state median exactly while keeping debt about $3,000 below what other ND business programs typically charge.

The debt load of $11,625 translates to a 0.32 ratio against first-year earnings, meaning graduates owe roughly four months' salary. That's manageable compared to many associate programs, though it's worth noting this debt sits in the 67th percentile nationally—not the lowest, but reasonable given the earnings outcome. The real question is whether these earnings hold steady or grow; business associate degrees can serve as stepping stones to higher positions or bachelor's programs, but they can also plateau quickly depending on local job markets.

The small sample size is the elephant in the room here. With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these numbers might reflect a few particularly successful or struggling individuals rather than a reliable pattern. That said, the program's middle-of-the-pack performance in North Dakota—where Rasmussen grads earn $7,600 more—suggests it's a functional but not exceptional option. For students planning to stay in the Williston area and keep costs down, this could work. For those with mobility or ambition for stronger starting positions, the extra investment in a more established program might pay off.