Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at College of Health Care Professions

This Allied Health and Medical Assisting program at College of Health Care Professions offers a solid entry point into healthcare with relatively low financial risk. Starting salaries of $26,556 are modest but reasonable for a short-term certificate program, and the debt load of $9,500 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36—meaning graduates can realistically pay off their loans. What's particularly encouraging is that this program performs better than most others in Texas, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide despite being below the national median.

However, the earnings picture reveals some limitations. While graduates see steady 7% growth over four years, reaching $28,493, this trails significantly behind top Texas programs like Houston Community College ($35,469) and Lone Star College System ($33,233). The program serves a predominantly low-income student population (72% receive Pell grants), which explains both the affordable tuition structure and the focus on accessible healthcare training.

For families seeking a quick path into healthcare with minimal debt, this program delivers on its promise—graduates can enter the workforce quickly without crushing loan payments. But if maximizing earning potential is the priority, the stronger community college programs in the Houston area offer substantially better returns for likely similar time investments.