Health and Medical Administrative Services at San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia

This health administration program produces earnings that plateau quickly, with graduates making essentially the same amount four years later as they do fresh out of school. While the $26,452 starting salary sits just below both national and California medians for this field, the complete lack of earnings growth—just 1% over four years—means students miss out on the typical career progression that makes education worthwhile.

The debt picture offers some relief, with the $10,623 median debt creating a manageable 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio that's right in line with national norms. However, when California programs like Santa Barbara City College produce graduates earning $47,000 and others consistently deliver $32,000+ starting salaries, this program's mediocre performance becomes more apparent. Among California's 155 health administration programs, this one ranks squarely in the middle at the 40th percentile.

For families considering this investment, the fundamental issue isn't the debt load—it's the limited earning potential and career stagnation. While graduates can expect to cover their educational costs relatively quickly, they're essentially locked into entry-level wages with minimal advancement prospects. Parents should seriously consider whether their child might be better served by pursuing this training at one of California's stronger-performing programs, even if it means traveling further from Visalia.