Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians at Pima Medical Institute-El Paso

Pima Medical Institute-El Paso's veterinary technician program delivers exactly what you'd expect nationally but performs modestly better within Texas. With starting salaries of $25,638 and debt of just $8,227, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32—meaning they owe roughly four months of salary. While this hits the national median perfectly, it ranks in the 60th percentile among Texas programs, suggesting it's a solid choice within the state despite not being a standout performer.

The concerning reality is that even the top Texas programs like Lone Star College System ($38,101) significantly outperform this one, with nearly 50% higher starting salaries. However, Pima's low debt load partially compensates for modest earnings, and the 19% salary growth over four years shows reasonable career progression. The program serves a high Pell grant population (63%), indicating it provides accessible training for working-class students.

For families considering this path, the program offers predictable, if modest, outcomes with minimal financial risk. The debt is manageable and graduates do see meaningful salary growth. However, if your child can access higher-performing programs like those in the Dallas or Houston areas, the significantly higher earning potential may justify additional effort in applications or relocation.