Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Oakland Community College

Oakland Community College's mental health services program produces graduates earning about $35,700 initially—solid performance that beats the national median by $2,800 and sits at Michigan's median for this field. The $22,141 in typical debt is actually $6,500 less than the state average, giving graduates a manageable debt load at 0.62 times first-year earnings. This positions the program in Michigan's middle tier among just five schools offering this credential.

The real question is whether an associate's degree in this field provides a viable career path. Earnings essentially flatline between year one and year four (dropping slightly to $34,874), suggesting this credential may function more as a stepping stone than a terminal degree. Many roles in mental health require bachelor's or master's degrees for advancement, which could explain the earnings plateau. However, for students aiming to work in community health organizations, substance abuse facilities, or as behavioral health technicians while potentially continuing their education, the lower debt burden makes this a reasonable entry point.

The small sample size here means these numbers could shift with more data, but the combination of below-state-average debt and at-state-median earnings suggests Oakland Community College delivers what you'd expect: an affordable credential that opens doors in mental health support roles without creating financial stress. If your child plans to continue toward a bachelor's degree, this could be a cost-effective start.