Health and Medical Administrative Services at Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe

Starting at $30,574 beats three-quarters of similar certificate programs nationally, but Arizona College of Nursing-Tempe's certificate comes with an unusual complication: earnings actually drop by year four to $29,310. That's not devastating given the relatively light debt load of $10,643, but it means graduates are essentially treading water financially rather than advancing—a pattern worth understanding before enrollment.

Within Arizona's 32 competing programs, this ranks solidly middle-of-the-pack at the 60th percentile. Community colleges like Phoenix College and GateWay deliver stronger outcomes at roughly $33,000-$34,000, suggesting there may be more cost-effective paths to the same career. The debt burden here is average for the field, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35—manageable, but not as advantageous as it could be given the stagnant earnings trajectory. Nearly half the students receive Pell grants, indicating this program serves many students who need their credential to lead somewhere financially viable.

The modest sample size (30-100 graduates) means these numbers could shift somewhat, but the core story is consistent: decent starting position, limited growth potential. For families weighing options, the community college alternatives appear to offer similar or better outcomes with likely lower overall costs. This certificate works as a quick entry credential, but shouldn't be mistaken for a long-term career accelerator.