Health and Medical Administrative Services at North-West College-Long Beach

North-West College-Long Beach places graduates squarely in the middle of California's healthcare administrative programs—ranking at the 60th percentile statewide with first-year earnings of $30,352. That's above both the state and national medians, though nowhere near top performers like Santa Barbara City College ($47,046). The modest $9,500 debt load keeps the program financially manageable, with graduates owing roughly four months' salary. For a certificate program serving a predominantly Pell-eligible population (60%), these numbers represent a solid pathway into healthcare administration.

The concerning pattern here is the earnings flatline: graduates actually earn slightly less four years out ($29,960) than they do initially. This suggests the certificate may get students through the door but doesn't provide much advancement leverage. You're essentially looking at a $30,000-per-year career ceiling without additional credentials or experience. Whether that's acceptable depends entirely on your child's goals—if they need to enter the workforce quickly with minimal debt, this works. If they're hoping to build toward higher-level administrative roles, they'll likely need additional education down the line.

For families prioritizing immediate employment with low debt risk, this program delivers what it promises. Just understand you're buying entry-level stability, not career growth.