Business/Commerce at Wor-Wic Community College

An associate's degree in business should provide quick access to steady work, but the earnings trajectory here raises questions. Similar programs in Maryland suggest first-year earnings around $36,800—right at the state median—but the reported four-year figure of $27,471 represents a significant decline. This backwards slide is unusual for business graduates, who typically see modest raises as they gain experience. Whether this reflects changing employment patterns among this program's actual graduates or data quirks from a small sample, it complicates the value calculation.

The estimated debt of $10,750 looks manageable at first glance—well below both the state and national medians for business associate's programs, and translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29. But that calculation assumes the higher first-year estimate holds true. If earnings actually track closer to that four-year figure, you're looking at a much tighter situation financially. The 41% Pell grant population suggests many students here need these programs to deliver clear economic mobility, and declining earnings don't support that goal.

Consider that the strongest comparable business programs in Maryland—like Strayer's $44,154 or Hagerstown's $41,970—show markedly better outcomes. Without reliable program-specific data, you're making an investment decision with limited visibility into what this particular program actually produces for its graduates.