Analysis
Similar health sciences bachelor's programs in California suggest first-year earnings around $40,000—roughly on par with the state median but below what nearby San Francisco State and Sacramento State graduates report. The estimated $16,400 in debt is notably lighter than both the state median ($18,800) and especially the national median ($26,700), which matters in a field where many graduates pursue additional credentials or certifications before reaching peak earning potential.
The 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio based on comparable programs looks manageable on paper, but context matters here. Other CSU health sciences programs show considerable variation—National University graduates earn nearly $56,000 their first year while Cal State East Bay sits at $43,000. San Jose State's 35% Pell Grant population suggests many students here carry additional financial pressures beyond federal loans, and starting at $40,000 in the Bay Area's high cost-of-living environment creates real constraints even with modest debt.
The limited sample size that necessitates these estimates could reflect either a small cohort or graduates dispersed across varied career paths. For parents, that uncertainty cuts both ways: this program might produce outcomes better or worse than peer schools suggest. Given the debt load appears conservative and the field typically offers job stability, the risk seems contained—but don't expect this degree alone to provide immediate financial comfort in San Jose without additional specialization or a partner income.
Where San Jose State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health services/allied health/health sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (34 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 San Jose State UniversitySan Jose | $7,992 | $40,057* | — | $16,399* | — |
 National UniversitySan Diego | $13,320 | $55,679* | $57,228 | $29,688* | 0.53 |
 San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco | $7,424 | $47,367* | $52,807 | $18,000* | 0.38 |
 California State University-SacramentoSacramento | $7,602 | $44,162* | $58,360 | $14,449* | 0.33 |
 California State University-FresnoFresno | $6,980 | $43,134* | — | —* | — |
 California State University-East BayHayward | $7,055 | $42,602* | $56,148 | $17,000* | 0.40 |
| 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 San Jose State University, approximately 35% 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 median of 13 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.