Health and Medical Administrative Services at Carson-Newman University

Healthcare administration degrees typically open doors to solid middle-class careers, but the numbers from comparable Tennessee programs suggest Carson-Newman's graduates may face a tighter financial squeeze than those at peer institutions. Based on similar programs across the state, expect roughly $39,450 in first-year earnings against about $34,675 in debt—a manageable but not comfortable 0.88 ratio that means nearly a full year's salary goes toward what was borrowed.

What's concerning here is the gap with top performers in Tennessee. King University graduates in this field earn over $50,000 their first year out, while Trevecca Nazarene grads make nearly $47,000—both substantially higher than what similar programs at Carson-Newman would suggest. You're looking at a $7,000-11,000 earnings disadvantage compared to these competitors, which compounds over time. Meanwhile, the estimated debt load sits above both the state and national medians for this degree, creating a harder financial starting point.

For parents weighing this investment, the question becomes whether Carson-Newman's specific program strengths justify the premium when nearby alternatives produce stronger early career outcomes. Before committing, reach out to the school directly for their actual graduate outcomes and find out what percentage of their healthcare administration majors land administrative roles versus lower-paying clerical positions—that distinction matters enormously in this field.