Health and Medical Administrative Services at Metropolitan State University of Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver's healthcare administration program lands in an interesting middle ground: it beats national benchmarks but trails other Colorado options. Starting earnings of $46,461 edge above the national median, and graduates carry notably less debt ($28,000 versus $45,266 state median). However, among Colorado's six healthcare administration programs, this one ranks in the 40th percentile—meaning three schools deliver stronger earning outcomes.

The trajectory looks solid with 22% earnings growth to $56,618 by year four, suggesting the degree opens doors to career advancement. That 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, and the relatively low debt burden matters for a family evaluating total cost. Metropolitan State's 99% admission rate and status as Denver's public access institution means this program serves students who might not gain entry to more selective schools, while still delivering outcomes that exceed typical healthcare administration programs nationwide.

The question for parents: is saving $17,000 in debt worth potentially earning $6,000-$10,000 less annually than you'd make from Colorado State Global or Colorado Christian? If your student has in-state tuition and plans to work in Denver's healthcare market, this program delivers reasonable value. But families who can afford alternatives should know that higher-earning options exist within Colorado, even if they come with higher price tags.