Analysis
Hudson Valley's Health Professions associate degree comes with an estimated $15,440 in debt—notably higher than the $12,950 typical for similar programs across New York, though still below the national median of $17,930. With first-year earnings from comparable programs around $35,232, graduates would face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44, meaning roughly five months of gross income to cover what they borrowed. That's manageable territory, but the elevated debt compared to peer programs in the state deserves attention.
The earnings picture based on similar programs nationwide suggests modest starting salaries, typical for associate-level health roles like medical assistants or health information technicians. These positions offer steady employment but limited upward mobility without additional credentials. Monroe Community College, for instance, reports similar earnings for its Health Professions graduates at $35,765, confirming that this salary range reflects the reality of the field rather than any program-specific weakness.
For families evaluating this path, the key question is whether the specific concentration within "Health Professions" leads to licensure or certification that commands better wages. Some tracks in this broad category—like nursing prerequisites or specialized clinical support roles—open doors to higher-paying positions, while others cap out quickly. Given the somewhat higher estimated debt and the field's earnings ceiling, understanding exactly which credential this program delivers is essential before committing.
Where Hudson Valley Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health professions associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Health Professions associates's programs at peer institutions in New York (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Hudson Valley Community CollegeTroy | $6,694 | $35,232* | — | $15,440* | — |
 Monroe Community CollegeRochester | $5,856 | $35,765* | $44,497 | $12,950* | 0.36 |
| National Median | — | $35,232* | — | $17,930* | 0.51 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Hudson Valley Community College, approximately 29% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 9 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.