Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,172
95th percentile
Median Debt
$10,964
25% above national median

Analysis

Parker University's Somatic Bodywork certificate stands out dramatically in this field, with graduates earning $32,172—roughly 60% more than both the Texas median and national average of $20,079. This puts the program in the 95th percentile statewide, significantly outpacing even the highest-earning competitors in Texas, where the next best program caps out at $23,843.

The debt picture reinforces this program's value. At $10,964, it's slightly above the Texas median but represents just 34% of first-year earnings—a manageable ratio that most graduates should be able to handle. Given that nearly half of students receive Pell grants, the accessibility combined with strong outcomes is noteworthy. The premium positioning appears justified by results rather than inflated tuition.

For families considering this path, Parker delivers the clearest return in Texas somatic bodywork education. The earnings premium is substantial enough to offset the moderately higher debt within the first year, and the credential positions graduates well above typical industry starting points. If your child is committed to bodywork as a career, this program demonstrates measurable value that transcends the usual concerns about certificate-level credentials.

Where Parker University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all somatic bodywork certificate's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Parker University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Somatic Bodywork certificate's programs at peer institutions in Texas (28 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Parker UniversityDallas$17,457$32,172$10,9640.34
Cortiva Institute-ArlingtonArlington$23,843$24,495$7,9170.33
Avenue Five InstituteAustin$22,720$7,4420.33
Hands on TherapyMesquite$21,757$23,118$7,9170.36
The College of Health Care Professions-Southwest HoustonHouston$20,079$24,652$7,0840.35
The College of Health Care Professions-NorthwestHouston$20,079$24,652$7,0840.35
National Median$20,079$8,7920.44

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with somatic bodywork graduates

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Massage Therapists

Perform therapeutic massages of soft tissues and joints. May assist in the assessment of range of motion and muscle strength, or propose client therapy plans.

$57,950/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award
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 Parker University, approximately 48% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 34 graduates with reported earnings and 49 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.