Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions at Pima Medical Institute-Colorado Springs

Looking at comparable lab science programs nationally, this associate degree appears positioned below where Colorado graduates typically land. While peer programs suggest first-year earnings around $48,000—yielding a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57—that figure sits notably below the $63,746 that similar programs in Colorado actually report. The gap matters: you're potentially looking at $15,000 less in starting salary compared to what nearby community college programs deliver.

The estimated $27,535 in debt aligns closely with what other Colorado lab science programs report, but debt becomes harder to manage when earnings lag state averages by nearly 25%. For context, Arapahoe Community College's actual reported outcomes show graduates earning that higher Colorado median, suggesting the local job market pays well for this credential—the question is whether Pima's program connects graduates to those same opportunities. With nearly half of students qualifying for Pell grants, these outcome differences carry real weight for families without financial cushion.

Before committing, get clarity on two things: why the earnings estimate diverges from Colorado's reported figures, and whether Pima's clinical placement network matches what larger Colorado programs offer. Lab science credentials generally lead to stable healthcare careers, but location and institutional connections significantly influence starting positions. If Pima can demonstrate its graduates achieve Colorado-typical salaries, this becomes a reasonable investment; if not, the community college alternative deserves serious consideration.