Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Southeast Community College Area

Southeast Community College's mental health program sits at a crossroads: graduates earn about $25,600 in year one, trailing the national median for this field by roughly $7,000. But here's the Nebraska context that matters—this program actually performs at the state median and ranks in the 60th percentile among Nebraska programs. In a state where mental health service roles may pay below national averages, this isn't an outlier; it's the local market reality.

The debt picture requires careful consideration. At $22,940, graduates carry slightly more debt than the national median while earning significantly less. That 0.89 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't catastrophic, but it means nearly a full year's salary in student loans. The positive signal is steady earnings growth—a 20% increase to $30,765 by year four suggests this field rewards experience, though that still falls well short of what mental health associates earn nationally.

For Nebraska families committed to staying in-state, this program delivers market-rate preparation for a challenging field. But parents should understand their graduate will likely earn thousands less annually than peers who complete similar programs in higher-wage states. The investment pays off over time, but starting salaries will be tight, and relocating after graduation might be necessary for better compensation.