Health Professions at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion's Health Professions program shows strong earnings momentum that compensates for a middle-of-the-pack start. Graduates earn $43,000 initially—above the national median but trailing other Virginia programs by about $1,300. However, the 32% earnings jump to $56,500 by year four tells a more compelling story. That trajectory suggests graduates are landing positions with clear advancement paths, likely in clinical or administrative roles where experience commands significant premiums. The debt load of $27,147 is quite manageable, translating to a 0.63 ratio against first-year earnings—well below concerning thresholds.

The Virginia context requires some nuance. While this program ranks at the 40th percentile statewide, you're comparing against just three other schools, including George Mason which serves the higher-paying DC metro market. More telling: Old Dominion beats the national median by $4,500 in early career earnings and charges typical debt for the field. The 62nd percentile national ranking and 24th percentile debt position (meaning lower debt than 76% of programs) demonstrate solid value.

For families concerned about healthcare career preparation, this program delivers steady positioning into a growing field without burdening graduates with excessive debt. The earnings growth curve particularly stands out—that 32% increase suggests graduates aren't stuck in entry-level roles. It's a practical choice for students seeking healthcare careers beyond traditional nursing.