Analysis
American Public University System's online health professions program stands out for delivering exceptionally low debt—just $8,358, compared to the national median of $17,930. With first-year earnings of $41,350, graduates achieve a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20, meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans with less than three months' salary. This program ranks in the 91st percentile nationally for earnings while maintaining debt in the 5th percentile, an unusual combination that signals strong value.
The earnings trajectory strengthens the case: graduates see 24% income growth over four years, reaching $51,205. While the program ranks at the 60th percentile within West Virginia (where only three schools offer this degree), it significantly outperforms the national median by nearly $6,000 in first-year earnings. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives these figures credibility, and the online format likely helps keep costs down without sacrificing earning potential.
For families concerned about student debt, this program offers a compelling path into healthcare. Graduates enter the workforce earning above the national average for their field while carrying minimal debt burden. The combination of strong immediate earnings and continued income growth suggests graduates develop marketable skills that remain valuable throughout their careers.
Where American Public University System Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health professions associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How American Public University System graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Public University System | $41,350 | $51,205 | +24% |
| Monroe Community College | $35,765 | $44,497 | +24% |
| Chattanooga State Community College | $36,180 | $39,058 | +8% |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | $26,962 | $38,517 | +43% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Health Professions associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 American Public University SystemCharles Town | $8,400 | $41,350 | $51,205 | $8,358 | 0.20 |
 Goodwin UniversityEast Hartford | $21,198 | $48,291 | — | $39,835 | 0.82 |
 Chattanooga State Community CollegeChattanooga | $4,550 | $36,180 | $39,058 | $22,513 | 0.62 |
 Monroe Community CollegeRochester | $5,856 | $35,765 | $44,497 | $12,950 | 0.36 |
 Ferris State UniversityBig Rapids | $13,630 | $35,232 | — | $17,930 | 0.51 |
 Ohio University-Main CampusAthens | $13,746 | $34,123 | — | — | — |
| National Median | — | $35,232 | — | $17,930 | 0.51 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At American Public University System, approximately 25% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 145 graduates with reported earnings and 219 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.