Business/Commerce, General at University of Hawaii Maui College

Graduates from the Business/Commerce program at the University of Hawaii Maui College experience a steady earnings trajectory, with median earnings of $34,252 one year post-graduation, rising to $44,438 after five years, and reaching $53,901 after ten years. However, when adjusted for purchasing power, the five-year salary equates to approximately $24,151.09 nationally, indicating that while nominal earnings increase, the real value may not keep pace with inflation or cost of living, particularly in Hawaii, where the cost of living index is significantly higher than the national average.

The top industries for graduates are predominantly in Health Care & Social Assistance, which accounts for 36.4% of employment, followed by a similar sector at 34.7%, and Accommodation & Food Services at 22.3%. The estimated break-even point compared to a high-school-only path is approximately 16.3 years, suggesting that while there is a potential for increased earnings over time, the return on investment may take considerable time to materialize, particularly in a high-cost state like Hawaii. This analysis indicates that students should weigh their career aspirations against the financial implications of pursuing a degree in this field.