Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions at Great Lakes Institute of Technology

Great Lakes Institute of Technology's Allied Health program faces a significant earnings gap—graduates earn about $5,000 less than the typical Pennsylvania program in this field and nearly $9,000 below the national median. Landing in the 18th percentile nationally is particularly notable when community colleges across the state regularly place graduates into $60,000+ roles. While the debt load of $21,253 is manageable and close to state norms, the limited earning power means this represents nearly half a year's salary rather than the three-to-four months it should be.

The program serves a predominantly low-income population (68% Pell-eligible), which makes the earnings shortfall more consequential for families counting on this credential to deliver immediate financial stability. With minimal earnings growth over four years—just 3%—graduates aren't catching up to their peers at stronger programs. The gap between this program and top Pennsylvania performers like Lackawanna or Delaware County Community College is substantial: $20,000 annually, which compounds to significant lifetime differences.

For parents evaluating this investment, the comparison within Pennsylvania is telling. Community colleges across the state consistently produce stronger outcomes in allied health, suggesting this isn't about regional job markets but program quality or employer connections. Unless geographic constraints make other options impractical, families should explore alternatives that better position graduates for the $50,000+ earnings typical in this field.