Health Professions at Bradley University

Bradley's Health Professions program shows a dramatic earnings trajectory that demands careful interpretation. First-year graduates earn just $27,857—landing in the 5th percentile nationally—but by year four, median earnings surge to $60,754, representing 118% growth. However, the sample size here is extremely small (under 30 graduates), which means these figures could shift significantly with just a few data points.

The debt load of $26,899 is essentially at the national median, making the debt-to-earnings ratio initially concerning at 0.97. Yet that four-year earning figure tells a different story, suggesting graduates may be entering lower-paying entry positions (perhaps clinical assistant roles or similar) before advancing into better-compensated health professions careers. Interestingly, this program ranks in the 60th percentile among Illinois health professions programs despite its 5th percentile national ranking—though with only four IL schools offering this degree, state comparisons provide limited insight.

The central issue is the small sample size, which makes it impossible to know whether that dramatic earnings growth is typical or reflects a few successful outliers. Parents should investigate exactly what roles graduates typically hold in years one versus four, and whether this program is truly designed as a stepping stone to advanced practice. Without understanding the career pathway, that initial $27,857 salary creates genuine financial pressure that may or may not be justified by eventual outcomes.