Analysis
Earning $21,614 one year after completing this certificate places graduates comfortably above the national median for somatic bodywork programs, but significantly below what bodywork practitioners earn at other Indiana schools. With only two programs in the state, the comparison is stark: Indiana Wellness College graduates earn nearly $30,000—about 40% more than Ivy Tech grads. For a field where hands-on training quality directly impacts earning potential, this gap matters.
The financial structure is reasonable: $10,886 in debt represents just six months of first-year earnings, and it's notably lower than what most bodywork students nationally take on. This manageable debt load provides a cushion if graduates need time to build a client base or secure positions at established practices. The moderate sample size suggests this is a consistent pattern, not a statistical fluke.
For parents considering this program, the core question is whether the lower earnings justify the cost savings compared to Indiana Wellness College. If your child is highly motivated and plans to build a private practice where personal skill matters more than institutional reputation, Ivy Tech's lower debt burden could be an advantage. But if they're career-changing into bodywork and need strong job placement support, the higher-earning alternative might justify borrowing a bit more.
Where Ivy Tech Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all somatic bodywork certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Ivy Tech Community College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Somatic Bodywork certificate's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (2 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,912 | $21,614 | — | $10,886 | 0.50 | |
| — | $29,979 | — | $11,587 | 0.39 | |
| National Median | — | $20,079 | — | $8,792 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with somatic bodywork graduates
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 Ivy Tech Community College, approximately 23% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 32 graduates with reported earnings and 32 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.