Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Polk State College

Polk State's Allied Health program performs better than you might expect from its first-year numbers. While graduates start at $34,429—below the national median but essentially matching Florida's average—they see 25% earnings growth over four years, reaching nearly $43,000. That growth trajectory matters more than the modest starting point, particularly for an associate's degree where students can enter the workforce quickly.

The $24,250 in debt sits right at the national average for this program, creating a manageable 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one that improves significantly as earnings rise. What's particularly telling: this program ranks in the 60th percentile among Florida's 43 schools offering allied health—a solid middle-of-the-pack position in a competitive state market. Yes, schools like Hodges University and Santa Fe College produce graduates earning $8,000-$16,000 more, but they're not necessarily within reach for every student. The 33% Pell rate at Polk State suggests it serves students who need affordable access.

For families weighing cost against outcomes, this program offers a practical path into healthcare without excessive debt. The moderate sample size indicates consistent enrollment, and the upward earnings trend shows career progression is possible. It won't match Florida's top programs, but it delivers functional training at a reasonable price—exactly what many students need from a community college.