Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Passaic County Community College

In New Jersey, allied health programs vary dramatically—top performers like Essex County College report graduates earning $54,592 their first year, while the state median sits at $37,762. Passaic County Community College's program lacks reported outcomes, but similar programs in New Jersey suggest graduates might expect earnings around that state median, paired with debt near $25,125. That's notably higher than the typical $18,295 debt load for this field in New Jersey, though still manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67.

The practical challenge here is that monthly loan payments on $25,000 would consume a significant chunk of a $37,000 salary, especially in northern New Jersey's expensive housing market. With 53% of students receiving Pell grants, many families are already stretching financially. The question becomes whether this particular program can match the stronger outcomes seen at other New Jersey community colleges, or whether it tracks closer to programs with lower earnings.

Given the uncertainty and the gap between top performers and the estimated figures, families should request job placement data directly from the college and talk to recent graduates before enrolling. The field itself is solid—healthcare support roles remain in demand—but at this price point, you need confidence that this specific program delivers competitive outcomes, not just comparable ones.