Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at New Mexico Highlands University

New Mexico Highlands graduates in this field start behind but make impressive progress—earnings jump 28% by year four, reaching $44,393. That trajectory matters more than the initial $34,750, which sits below the national median but exactly matches the New Mexico median. Among the state's four programs offering this degree, Highlands ranks at the 60th percentile, outperforming New Mexico State's graduates significantly.

The debt picture offers genuine relief. At $18,375, graduates owe roughly a third less than the national median of $27,000, creating a manageable 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio. For a program serving many first-generation college students (46% receive Pell grants), this matters enormously—you can reasonably pay off this debt even on entry-level mental health service salaries.

The real consideration is geographic: these outcomes reflect New Mexico's social services market, where Eastern New Mexico tops out at $40,645 after four years. If your child plans to stay in-state and is passionate about this work, Highlands delivers solid preparation without crushing debt. If they're eyeing higher-paying markets elsewhere, understand they'll start at a regional salary baseline but with minimal financial burden holding them back.