Agricultural Production Operations at Kirkwood Community College
enrolling 7,438 students in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Program Analysis
At $42,392 per year, Agricultural Production Operations graduates from Kirkwood Community College earn slightly above the $33,953 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
The 39.1x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 38% task exposure — and the 6% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Agricultural Production Operations graduates.
The median debt load of $9,530 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #2 out of 12 programs, Kirkwood Community College's Agricultural Production Operations program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $42,392 to $46,670 over five years (10% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
With 7 registered apprenticeships mapped to Agricultural Production Operations, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
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 Production Operations graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary | $100,830 | +4.0% | 52% |
| Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers | $87,980 | -1.3% | 63% |
| Agricultural sciences teachers, postsecondary | $86,350 | +4.1% | 50% |
Agricultural Production Operations Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Agricultural Production Operations careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering agriculture & natural resources.
Read the full Agricultural Production Operations career guide →
Compare & Explore
Agricultural Production Operations Overview
Agricultural Production Operations at Other Schools
Other Majors at Kirkwood Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.