Health/Medical Preparatory Programs at National Park College

National Park College's health preparatory certificate delivers first-year earnings of $61,828—impressive for any credential, let alone one requiring less than a year of study. That puts graduates at the 75th percentile nationally for this program type, earning $11,000 more than the typical certificate-holder in health prep programs. The debt load of $14,740 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.24, meaning graduates earn over four times their borrowing in year one alone.

The Arkansas context is harder to read since only three schools in the state offer comparable programs, making the "60th percentile" ranking less meaningful. But the core economics remain compelling: graduates are entering health-adjacent fields with minimal debt and strong immediate earnings. Nearly half of students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program successfully serves students who need affordable pathways into healthcare careers.

The real question is trajectory. Certificate programs sometimes serve as stepping stones rather than endpoints—these graduates may be working as medical assistants, pharmacy techs, or similar roles while planning their next move. If your student views this as preparation for further healthcare training, the low debt and solid earnings create an excellent foundation. If they're hoping this alone will sustain a career, verify what specific roles graduates are entering and whether those align with long-term goals.