Health and Medical Administrative Services at Herzing University-Madison

Herzing University-Madison's healthcare administrative certificate costs twice as much as the typical program in Wisconsin, yet produces earnings 18% below the state median. While graduates earn roughly the national average, Wisconsin's robust technical college system means families can expect significantly better outcomes elsewhere—Madison Area Technical College graduates in this same program earn $43,237, over 55% more than Herzing's $27,871.

The debt picture is particularly problematic. At $22,135, students borrow nearly 50% more than the state median of $14,924 and more than double the national median. Five of the top six healthcare administrative programs in Wisconsin require less debt while delivering higher earnings. The slight earnings decline from year one to year four suggests graduates aren't gaining much professional momentum, while that debt remains fixed.

For families considering this path, the math is straightforward: Wisconsin's technical colleges offer the same credential for less money and better job prospects. With 67% of Herzing's students receiving Pell grants, many families here are taking on debt that will be difficult to manage on $27,000 annual earnings. Unless Herzing offers something truly unique that justifies the premium—flexible scheduling, specialized placement services—this looks like an expensive way to access a certificate that's available for less money down the street.