Business Administration, Management and Operations at York Technical College

York Technical College graduates start strong, earning $43,096 in their first year—placing them in the 80th percentile among South Carolina business programs and well above both the state median ($31,245) and national median ($33,977). The manageable $12,250 in debt means graduates owe less than three months' salary, a reasonable burden for an associate's degree. Among SC's 19 business programs, only Greenville Technical College produces slightly higher starting earnings.

The concern is what happens next. Four years out, median earnings drop to $37,899, a 12% decline that's unusual for business degrees. This pattern could reflect graduates moving into lower-paying roles, taking time off, or returning to school—the moderate sample size makes it hard to pinpoint the cause. Still, even with that decline, graduates maintain solid earnings compared to state peers, most of whom earn in the low $30,000s.

For parents weighing options, this program offers a strong launch pad at a reasonable price. The debt load is modest enough that the earnings dip shouldn't create financial hardship, and starting salaries outperform 80% of comparable SC programs. Just be aware that the trajectory may not follow the typical upward climb, which might matter if long-term earning power is your primary concern.