Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at California State University-Dominguez Hills

California's health sciences bachelor's programs show striking variation, with peer institutions reporting first-year earnings anywhere from $40,000 to over $55,000. The estimated figures for Cal State Dominguez Hills—$40,000 in earnings and $16,400 in debt—suggest a middle-of-the-road scenario based on similar programs statewide. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means roughly five months of gross income would cover the full debt load, which is manageable by most standards. With 61% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves primarily working-class families for whom borrowing less than $17,000 to enter a healthcare field could be a practical pathway.

The uncertainty here matters. Health sciences is an umbrella term that can lead to vastly different careers—from medical technologists to health administrators to pre-professional tracks. National University's graduates earning $55,000 versus the state median of $40,000 suggests that program specifics, clinical placements, and credentialing pathways make a huge difference. Before committing, nail down exactly what credential or certification this degree leads to and whether graduates are competitive for the specific healthcare roles your child targets. The debt is reasonable, but only if the degree opens the doors it's supposed to.