Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Purdue University Global's associate program in health professions shows a debt load that looks manageable on paper—comparable programs nationally suggest around $15,440 in borrowing for first-year earnings near $35,232. That 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio falls well within the reasonable range, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off loans within a year or two of focused repayment. However, the lack of reported data from this specific program creates meaningful uncertainty about what Purdue Global graduates actually experience, especially given that 48% of students here receive Pell grants and may have fewer financial cushions if outcomes underperform estimates.
The four-year earnings figure of $46,069 provides some reassurance that health professions credentials do lead to wage growth over time. That $11,000 jump from year one to year four suggests these roles offer progression rather than stagnation. Still, these are relatively modest earnings for healthcare work, likely reflecting positions like medical assistants or health technicians rather than licensed practical nurses or other mid-level clinical roles that command higher pay.
Given the data gaps, your best move is confirming exactly which credential this program awards and what specific jobs graduates typically enter. Associate degrees in "health professions" vary dramatically—some lead to licensure and stable career tracks, while others serve mainly as stepping stones to bachelor's programs. Ask the school directly about job placement rates and typical employer types before committing, since the estimated numbers here can't tell you whether this particular program delivers on its promises.
Where Purdue University Global Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health professions associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue University Global | — | $46,069 | — |
| American Public University System | $41,350 | $51,205 | +24% |
| Monroe Community College | $35,765 | $44,497 | +24% |
| Chattanooga State Community College | $36,180 | $39,058 | +8% |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | $26,962 | $38,517 | +43% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Health Professions associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,110 | $35,232* | $46,069 | $15,440* | — | |
| $21,198 | $48,291* | — | $39,835* | 0.82 | |
| $8,400 | $41,350* | $51,205 | $8,358* | 0.20 | |
| $4,550 | $36,180* | $39,058 | $22,513* | 0.62 | |
| $5,856 | $35,765* | $44,497 | $12,950* | 0.36 | |
| $13,630 | $35,232* | — | $17,930* | 0.51 | |
| National Median | — | $35,232* | — | $17,930* | 0.51 |
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 Purdue University Global, 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 9 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.