Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,172
95th percentile (95th in TX)
Median Debt
$10,964
25% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.34
Manageable
Sample Size
34
Adequate data

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

Parker UniversityOther somatic bodywork programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Parker University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Parker University graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all somatic bodywork certificate programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

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

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Parker University$32,172$10,9640.34
Cortiva Institute-Arlington$23,843$24,495$7,9170.33
Avenue Five Institute$22,720$7,4420.33
Hands on Therapy$21,757$23,118$7,9170.36
The College of Health Care Professions-Southwest Houston$20,079$24,652$7,0840.35
The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest$20,079$24,652$7,0840.35
National Median$20,079$8,7920.44

Other Somatic Bodywork Programs in Texas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Cortiva Institute-Arlington
Arlington
$23,843$7,917
Avenue Five Institute
Austin
$22,720$7,442
Hands on Therapy
Mesquite
$21,757$7,917
The College of Health Care Professions-Southwest Houston
Houston
$20,079$7,084
The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest
Houston
$20,079$7,084

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.