Health and Medical Administrative Services at Avila University

With an estimated debt load of $33,000 against first-year earnings around $50,500—typical for healthcare administration programs across Missouri—this program lands right in the middle of the pack. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65 suggests graduates could realistically pay off loans within a reasonable timeframe, though they won't be flush with cash in those early years. What's worth noting is that earnings appear to plateau quickly, climbing only about $3,400 between year one and year four, which raises questions about long-term salary growth in healthcare admin roles.

Peer programs in Missouri show a wide range of outcomes, with St. Louis College of Health Careers' graduates earning nearly $8,000 more in their first year. Still, Avila's estimated figures align with state and national medians—this isn't an outlier in either direction. For a school serving a largely working-class student body (49% receiving Pell grants), these middle-of-the-road outcomes suggest the program delivers what you'd expect: entry into a stable field without exceptional earnings upside.

The practical concern is whether your child can differentiate themselves enough to land on the higher end of that earnings range, especially given the limited salary growth trajectory. Healthcare administration jobs exist in abundance, but advancement often requires additional credentials or moving into specialized roles. This program opens doors, but probably not to corner offices.