Health and Medical Administrative Services at Pima Medical Institute-Tucson
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Pima Medical Institute-Tucson's health administration program offers reasonable debt levels but struggles with earnings compared to other Arizona options. While graduates leave with just $8,708 in debt—well below both state and national averages—their starting salary of $28,219 falls short of the Arizona median by about $1,500. More concerning, this program ranks in the 40th percentile statewide, meaning 60% of similar programs in Arizona produce higher-earning graduates.
The debt picture is genuinely attractive, representing less than a third of first-year earnings, which creates manageable monthly payments. Earnings do grow 11% over four years, reaching $31,216, though this still lags behind top Arizona programs like Phoenix College ($34,608) and several GateWay campuses (over $33,000). With 32 programs to choose from in Arizona, parents might question why not aim higher when community colleges are delivering stronger outcomes.
For families prioritizing minimal debt over maximum earnings, this program delivers financial accessibility—nearly half of students receive Pell grants. However, the earnings gap with better-performing Arizona programs is significant enough to impact long-term financial outcomes. Consider whether the convenience of Pima's location justifies accepting lower earning potential when stronger alternatives exist within the state.
Where Pima Medical Institute-Tucson Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health and medical administrative services certificate's programs nationally
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 Pima Medical Institute-Tucson graduates compare to all programs nationally
Pima Medical Institute-Tucson graduates earn $28k, placing them in the 54th percentile of all health and medical administrative services certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Health and Medical Administrative Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (32 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pima Medical Institute-Tucson | $28,219 | $31,216 | $8,708 | 0.31 |
| Phoenix College | $34,608 | $32,282 | — | — |
| GateWay Community College-Central City | $33,379 | $37,575 | $14,088 | 0.42 |
| GateWay Community College | $33,379 | $37,575 | $14,088 | 0.42 |
| Brookline College-Tucson | $32,951 | $30,110 | $11,650 | 0.35 |
| Brookline College-Phoenix | $32,951 | $30,110 | $11,650 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $27,783 | — | $10,372 | 0.37 |
Other Health and Medical Administrative Services Programs in Arizona
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Arizona schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix College Phoenix | $2,358 | $34,608 | — |
| GateWay Community College-Central City Phoenix | — | $33,379 | $14,088 |
| GateWay Community College Phoenix | $2,358 | $33,379 | $14,088 |
| Brookline College-Tucson Tucson | — | $32,951 | $11,650 |
| Brookline College-Phoenix Phoenix | — | $32,951 | $11,650 |
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 Pima Medical Institute-Tucson, 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 334 graduates with reported earnings and 410 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.