Health Professions at Monroe Community College

Monroe Community College's Health Professions associate program shows graduates earning $35,765 initially and $44,497 four years out—placing it solidly in the middle of the pack both nationally (64th percentile) and among New York programs (60th percentile). What makes this program particularly accessible is the debt load: at $12,950, students borrow about $5,000 less than the national median, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36. Nearly half the student body receives Pell grants, suggesting this program serves as a practical entry point for students from lower-income backgrounds.

The 24% earnings growth from year one to year four indicates decent career progression, though it's worth noting this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes may vary more than these medians suggest. The relatively low debt matters here—a student could realistically pay off their loans within a few years while building health care credentials that open doors to further education or advancement.

For families looking at affordable pathways into health care careers, this program delivers solid value without the debt burden common at many institutions. The combination of below-average borrowing and middle-of-the-pack earnings creates financial breathing room that's especially valuable for working-class students entering a field where additional certifications and experience often matter more than the initial degree.