Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions at Camden County College

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 is solid for a two-year healthcare credential, particularly when similar programs nationwide suggest first-year earnings around $48,000. This puts graduates in position to manage their estimated $19,700 in debt reasonably—though it's worth noting that New Jersey's higher cost of living means those earnings stretch differently than they might elsewhere. The fact that comparable lab science programs across the country cluster around this earnings figure suggests some consistency in entry-level pay for medical laboratory technicians, which typically reflects standardized certification requirements in the field.

What makes this estimate particularly uncertain is that we're working without any reported outcomes from New Jersey's seven programs offering this degree. Lab tech salaries can vary significantly by employer type—hospital systems typically pay more than independent labs or physician offices—and regional healthcare markets differ substantially. Camden County College serves a notable population of Pell-eligible students (39%), which matters because lab tech roles offer a genuine middle-class entry point without requiring a bachelor's degree. But whether this specific program connects graduates to the higher-paying employers in the region is impossible to assess from peer-program estimates alone.

Given the limited visibility here, request completion rates and job placement data directly from Camden County's program before committing. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, but you need to know where their graduates actually work and how quickly they secure positions after certification.