Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions at Austin Community College District

Austin Community College's allied health program produces graduates earning nearly $60,000 right out of the gate—about $10,000 more than the national median for similar associate programs and $4,000 above the Texas average. Among the 65 Texas schools offering this degree, ACC lands solidly in the 60th percentile, which means it outperforms most competitors despite not being a top-tier program. The moderate debt load of $17,765 translates to a 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates earn back their investment in roughly four months of work.

The earnings trajectory shows steady if unspectacular growth, rising to $63,502 by year four—a 6% gain that suggests stable career progression rather than dramatic advancement. While programs at Hill College and South Texas College show significantly higher starting salaries, ACC's combination of strong initial earnings and manageable debt creates a practical path into healthcare careers. This matters especially in Austin's competitive job market, where allied health professionals remain in demand.

For families weighing community college options, this program delivers clear value: you're getting above-average outcomes without excessive borrowing. It won't catapult graduates to the top of the earnings ladder, but it provides a reliable entry point into healthcare professions with debt that won't become a long-term burden.