Health and Medical Administrative Services at Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global's Health and Medical Administrative Services program delivers solid initial earnings that exceed both national and Indiana averages, but comes with a concerning earnings trajectory and higher-than-average debt burden. Graduates earn $47,603 in their first year—ranking in the 63rd percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Indiana—which is notably higher than the national median of $44,345 and Indiana median of $43,444. However, the program's debt load of $47,313 is significantly above typical levels for this field (national median: $30,998), resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of nearly 1:1.

The most troubling aspect is the negative earnings growth: graduates actually earn less four years out ($44,598) than in their first year, representing a 6% decline when most careers show upward mobility. This "early peak" pattern suggests limited advancement opportunities in the field. While the program outperforms several Indiana competitors initially, it falls well short of Indiana Wesleyan's $50,341 starting salaries.

For anxious parents, this program presents a mixed value proposition. The higher debt burden combined with stagnant earnings growth means your child could be paying off loans longer than peers in other healthcare administration programs. If considering this field, compare total program costs carefully and investigate whether the online format aligns with your child's learning style and career networking needs.