Health and Medical Administrative Services at DeVry University-California

DeVry's health administration program commands top-20% earnings among California's 70 similar programs, with graduates earning $37,750—nearly $10,000 above the state median of $27,553. While that's impressive performance, it comes with the highest debt burden in the dataset: $37,717 compared to California's $20,000 median. The one-to-one debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates essentially borrow a full year's salary, which is manageable but leaves little margin for error given that earnings plateau immediately after graduation.

The earnings trajectory raises a legitimate concern. Most associate degree programs show at least modest growth over the first four years, but this one actually declines 2% to $37,077. That doesn't necessarily mean career stagnation—healthcare administration salaries may simply level off quickly at entry-level positions—but it does mean graduates won't be growing into their debt load as quickly as in other fields. The robust sample size (100+ graduates) makes this pattern reliable rather than a statistical fluke.

For families prioritizing fast entry into a stable healthcare field, this delivers: graduates out-earn 80% of their California peers from day one. But that premium comes at a premium price. If your child can access similar training at a community college like Santa Barbara City College (where outcomes are even stronger) or through a less expensive program, the lower debt burden could make a meaningful difference in their financial flexibility during their twenties.