Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City

This program starts strong with $54,575 in first-year earnings—right at the national median—but then drops sharply to $38,162 by year four. That 30% decline is unusual for allied health programs, which typically see steady or growing incomes as graduates gain experience and certifications. Among Oklahoma's 17 similar programs, this one sits at just the 40th percentile, lagging behind nearby alternatives like Rose State College ($63,330) and Oklahoma City Community College ($63,013).

The debt load of $20,668 is reasonable and creates a manageable 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio based on first-year income. However, that ratio becomes far less comfortable if earnings continue their downward trajectory. The question parents should investigate: Are graduates switching to lower-paying roles, working reduced hours, or leaving the field entirely? This pattern suggests either career instability or that the associate degree isn't leading to the higher-credential positions that drive long-term earnings growth.

For families prioritizing affordability and immediate employment, the low debt and solid starting salary offer a workable foundation. But if your child plans to build a career in allied health, spending similar money at Rose State or OCCC appears to deliver significantly better four-year outcomes. Understanding why this program's earnings drop so sharply would be critical before committing.