Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions at Columbia Central University-Caguas

Columbia Central University-Caguas stands out among Puerto Rico's allied health certificate programs, ranking in the 80th percentile statewide with earnings nearly double the island's median of $10,833. The impressive 30% earnings growth—from $15,142 to $19,697—suggests graduates gain valuable skills that translate into better opportunities over time. For families on the island, where 81% of students receive Pell grants, the program's low debt load of $5,375 makes it accessible, with a debt-to-earnings ratio that's manageable even at entry-level salaries.

However, the national context tells a starkly different story. These earnings place graduates in just the 5th percentile compared to similar programs across the U.S., where the median is $45,746—more than triple what graduates here earn initially. This massive gap reflects Puerto Rico's broader economic challenges and raises a crucial question: if your child plans to stay on the island, this program performs well relative to local opportunities. But if they're considering a move to the mainland for better pay, they should know this credential may not translate to competitive wages outside Puerto Rico.

For families committed to staying in Puerto Rico, this represents solid training at reasonable cost. For those weighing mainland opportunities, the national earnings gap is too significant to ignore.