Analysis
A bachelor's in Health Professions that costs roughly $25,000 and leads to nearly $38,500 in first-year earnings offers a manageable financial entry point—though the limited data makes it hard to assess how Northeastern State's specific program performs. Based on comparable bachelor's programs nationally, graduates would face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65, meaning they'd owe about eight months of salary. That's workable, especially in healthcare fields where early earnings often grow as professionals gain certifications or specialize.
What gives context here is Oklahoma's healthcare market itself. The single other state program with reported data—Southwestern Oklahoma State—shows nearly identical earnings at $38,641, though its graduates carry substantially less debt at $18,700. This suggests Northeastern State students may be borrowing closer to the national average ($26,000) rather than benefiting from Oklahoma's lower typical debt loads. For a school serving many Pell-eligible students (42%), that difference matters practically when monthly payments begin.
The core question is whether this program opens doors to careers with advancement potential or stops at entry-level healthcare support roles. If graduates move into positions requiring additional credentials or struggle to find full-time work immediately, that $25,000 debt becomes harder to service. Before committing, verify what specific healthcare roles alumni actually enter and whether the program connects to employers who can offer career progression, not just initial placement.
Where Northeastern State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health professions bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Health Professions bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,513 | $38,492* | — | $24,990* | — | |
| $8,295 | $38,641* | — | $18,700* | 0.48 | |
| National Median | — | $38,492* | — | $26,000* | 0.68 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Northeastern State University, approximately 42% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 44 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.