Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions at All-State Career-Baltimore

This certificate program shows surprisingly strong first-year earnings of $34,909—well above the national median of $31,071—but graduates face an unusual challenge: their incomes actually drop 15% by year four, falling to $29,577. While the program ranks in the 69th percentile nationally, it sits below the state median of $35,992, landing at the 40th percentile among Maryland programs. That matters because staying in-state is common for certificate holders, and programs like Hagerstown Community College demonstrate that stronger in-state outcomes are achievable.

The debt load of $9,500 is manageable and matches the state average, creating a reasonable 0.27 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one. With 66% of students receiving Pell grants, this access point into healthcare could work for families counting on immediate income. However, the earnings decline raises real questions about career trajectory—whether graduates are moving into lower-paying roles, facing limited advancement, or leaving the field entirely.

For families needing affordable healthcare training with quick entry to the workforce, the initial numbers work. But the income drop means this shouldn't be viewed as a long-term career foundation without additional training. If your student plans to use this as a stepping stone toward further credentials in laboratory science, it's defensible. As a terminal degree, the declining earnings pattern is concerning enough to compare closely with other Maryland options.