Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Bates Technical College

Washington state's allied health programs show significant variation in outcomes, and while Bates Technical College's actual graduate earnings remain unreported, comparable programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $43,425—squarely at the state median but below what some nearby community colleges report for their graduates. Tacoma Community College, just down the road, shows actual earnings of $58,382 for their allied health graduates, nearly $15,000 more annually. This gap matters when you're carrying debt.

The estimated debt load of $18,220 translates to a manageable 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio based on peer program outcomes, slightly better than both state and national medians for this field. That's a reasonable burden if the earnings estimate holds true. However, the wide spread among Washington programs—from the low $40,000s to nearly $60,000—suggests that program quality, clinical placement networks, or local employer relationships create meaningful outcome differences. Allied health is typically a stable field with good job availability, but starting salary matters significantly for debt repayment and long-term financial security.

Given the uncertainty here, the priority should be understanding why Bates lacks reported outcomes and what specifically differentiates their program from higher-earning alternatives in the Tacoma area. Request job placement rates, employer partnerships, and clinical rotation sites before committing. The debt level won't sink anyone, but maximizing that first job salary could mean thousands of dollars in your child's favor.