Analysis
Saint Louis University's Health Services program shows remarkable income growth—graduates more than double their earnings by year four—but it's worth understanding why those first-year numbers start so low. At $29,092, new graduates earn about $7,000 less than typical Missouri graduates in this field and land in just the 25th percentile statewide. The program costs roughly the same as competitors like Missouri State-Springfield or Mizzou, but those schools' graduates start $10,000-15,000 higher right out of the gate.
The dramatic jump to $65,693 by year four suggests many graduates pursue additional credentials or transition into better-paying healthcare roles after graduation. While this eventual outcome is strong, families should be prepared for a tough first year or two—that 0.93 debt-to-income ratio means new graduates face nearly a full year's salary in loans during the period when they're earning the least.
The small sample size here is important context: with fewer than 30 recent graduates tracked, these numbers could swing significantly with just a few career outcomes. If you're considering this program, dig into whether it's designed as a stepping stone to advanced healthcare roles or direct workforce entry. The four-year earnings are solid, but the pathway there matters when you're carrying $27,000 in debt from day one.
Where Saint Louis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health services/allied health/health sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Saint Louis University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Louis University | $29,092 | $65,693 | +126% |
| Missouri State University-Springfield | $44,443 | $54,456 | +23% |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | $39,186 | $52,147 | +33% |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | $39,289 | $46,821 | +19% |
| University of Central Missouri | $33,674 | $40,689 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $53,244 | $29,092 | $65,693 | $27,000 | 0.93 | |
| $9,024 | $44,443 | $54,456 | $27,000 | 0.61 | |
| $11,988 | $39,289 | $46,821 | $27,000 | 0.69 | |
| $14,130 | $39,186 | $52,147 | $23,250 | 0.59 | |
| $9,739 | $33,674 | $40,689 | $27,000 | 0.80 | |
| $10,181 | $32,268 | — | $22,375 | 0.69 | |
| National Median | — | $35,279 | — | $26,690 | 0.76 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with health services/allied health/health sciences graduates
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 Saint Louis University, approximately 15% 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 19 graduates with reported earnings and 46 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.