Agricultural Business at Des Moines Area Community College
enrolling 10,406 students in Ankeny, IA.
Program Analysis
Des Moines Area Community College's Agricultural Business graduates start at $40,506/yr — above the $36,297 national average, though not by a wide margin.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 50.5x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Agricultural Business programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Agricultural Business's career paths, with 48% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 29% gap from the optimistic case.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $8,684 in median debt clears fast against $40,506 in annual earnings.
At #7 of 18 Agricultural Business programs, Des Moines Area Community College scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Earnings grow from $40,506 to $55,664 over five years — a 37% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
There are 4 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Agricultural Business, including Beekeeper (median $87,980/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Agricultural Business graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics teachers, postsecondary | $119,980 | +2.1% | 52% |
| Economists | $115,440 | +1.2% | 39% |
| Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers | $87,980 | -1.3% | 63% |
Agricultural Business Career Guide
Explore what Agricultural Business graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 18 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Agricultural Business Overview
Agricultural Business at Other Schools
Other Majors at Des Moines Area Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.