Health and Medical Administrative Services at Hawkeye Community College

Hawkeye's medical administrative certificate is one of the more expensive pathways into this field—in fact, graduates here carry debt that exceeds the national median by more than double. While first-year earnings of $32,126 beat the national median and place this program in the 84th percentile nationally, that advantage narrows considerably within Iowa, where it ranks in the 60th percentile. Several other Iowa community colleges deliver similar or better earnings outcomes with significantly less debt burden.

The 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming on its own, but context matters: students here are borrowing $21,500 for an entry-level administrative credential. Compare that to Western Iowa Tech, where students earn nearly identical wages while carrying about $5,000 less debt. The question for families becomes whether Hawkeye's location or specific program features justify that premium.

Keep in mind these numbers come from a small graduating class, so individual circumstances could vary considerably. For parents weighing this option, the program does produce above-average earners nationally, but within Iowa's community college landscape, it's a middle-of-the-pack choice at a higher price point. If geography permits, exploring Northeast Iowa or Des Moines Area's programs could deliver better return on investment.