Somatic Bodywork at Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers-West Palm Beach

Starting at $16,075 within a year of graduation, this certificate program produces earnings well below what massage therapy and bodywork graduates typically make in Florida. The state median sits at $21,108—nearly $5,000 more—and several nearby institutions like Palm Beach State College and Daytona College consistently produce graduates earning over $24,000. At the 25th percentile statewide, this program trails three-quarters of its Florida competitors.

The $9,317 in median debt isn't catastrophic, but it creates a challenging debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58—meaning graduates owe more than half their first year's income. While earnings do improve to $19,442 by year four (a 21% gain), they're still playing catch-up to where other Florida graduates start. For a field that doesn't require years of education to begin earning, this trajectory suggests either limited placement support or a curriculum that doesn't adequately prepare students for higher-earning opportunities.

With 69% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are counting on this credential to deliver immediate economic mobility. Unfortunately, the numbers suggest they'd be better served at one of Florida's stronger bodywork programs—several of which would provide $8,000+ more in annual earning power right out of the gate, making loan repayment far more manageable.