Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Drury University-College of Continuing Professional Studies

Based on comparable programs in Missouri, this health sciences bachelor's degree appears to track right at the state median—$36,430 in first-year earnings against an estimated $26,250 in debt. That 0.72 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within a workable range, though it's worth noting that Missouri's stronger health programs at places like Missouri State and the University of Missouri system produce significantly higher starting salaries in the low-to-mid $40,000s.

The estimated debt load here is actually slightly below both the state and national medians for this degree, which matters given that 59% of students receive Pell grants. However, the earnings gap is substantial: top Missouri programs show graduates earning $8,000-$10,000 more in their first year. For a field where many roles require specific credentials or licensing, that difference compounds over time. The challenge with a broad "health sciences" degree is that outcomes vary wildly depending on whether you're entering healthcare administration, support services, or preparing for further clinical training.

If your student has a clear career path within health services and this program aligns with their professional goals, the debt picture is manageable. But if they're exploring options or could access one of Missouri's public universities with documented stronger outcomes in this field, those alternatives deserve serious consideration—especially since the earnings estimates here suggest middle-of-the-pack performance among Missouri health programs.