Analysis
The story here is what happens after the first year. Drexel's medical preparatory graduates start at an unremarkable $33,835—essentially identical to both the national and Pennsylvania medians—but by year four they're earning $70,001, more than double their starting salary. This explosive growth rate of 107% suggests most graduates are successfully entering medical or healthcare professional roles that require additional training or credentialing after their bachelor's degree. Among Pennsylvania's 18 programs, Drexel ranks at the 60th percentile, placing it solidly above the state median despite that modest first-year number.
The $24,030 in debt sits right at national norms and creates a manageable 0.71 ratio to first-year earnings. Given how dramatically earnings climb, that initial debt burden becomes increasingly insignificant—it represents just 34% of year-four earnings. This pattern makes sense for a pre-med or pre-health track where graduates are pursuing further credentials: you're essentially paying for access to the next stage of professional training.
The moderate sample size means some year-to-year variation is possible, but the overall trajectory is clear. For families whose child is genuinely committed to healthcare and willing to pursue additional education or certification, this program delivers strong positioning for advanced career tracks. The investment pays off, but only if your student follows through beyond the bachelor's degree.
Where Drexel University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health/medical preparatory programs bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Drexel University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drexel University | $33,835 | $70,001 | +107% |
| MCPHS University | $30,439 | $73,755 | +142% |
| University of Dayton | $20,263 | $61,398 | +203% |
| Oregon State University | $33,642 | $59,456 | +77% |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus | $33,642 | $59,456 | +77% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $60,663 | $33,835 | $70,001 | $24,030 | 0.71 | |
| $48,132 | $93,238 | — | $27,000 | 0.29 | |
| $6,368 | $85,007 | — | — | — | |
| $27,140 | $68,648 | — | $23,625 | 0.34 | |
| $40,196 | $53,681 | — | $23,751 | 0.44 | |
| $7,001 | $43,930 | — | $31,000 | 0.71 | |
| National Median | — | $33,642 | — | $25,000 | 0.74 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Drexel University, approximately 25% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 59 graduates with reported earnings and 117 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.