Somatic Bodywork at Palm Beach Academy of Health & Beauty

Palm Beach Academy graduates start earning slightly above Florida's median for somatic bodywork programs, but there's a troubling pattern: earnings actually drop by 7% over the first four years, from $23,011 to $21,309. While this program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide—meaning it outperforms about 40% of Florida schools—it's still roughly $3,000 behind the state's top programs like Miami Dade College and Lee Professional Institute. More concerning, those top programs likely offer better long-term trajectories than what we see here.

The positive news is the debt load. At $6,333, graduates borrow significantly less than the state median of $7,917, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28—meaning debt represents just over three months of first-year income. This makes the program relatively low-risk financially, even if the earnings ceiling isn't particularly high. The school serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population (67%), suggesting it provides accessible career training for students who need it most.

For parents considering this program: it's an affordable entry point into somatic bodywork, but understand you're paying for basic certification rather than competitive advantage. If your child is committed to this field and needs a quick, lower-cost credential, this works. But if they have the flexibility, exploring the higher-performing Florida programs could mean an extra $3,000-5,000 annually in earning potential—a meaningful difference at this income level.