Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Stephen F Austin State University

Starting nearly $4,000 below the national median for health sciences graduates, Stephen F Austin's program shows significant momentum over time—earnings jump 29% to reach $40,658 by year four, putting graduates ahead of typical performers both nationally and statewide. That trajectory matters because many allied health roles require initial certifications or entry-level experience before better-paying positions open up. The manageable debt load of $26,690 keeps the program accessible while graduates build toward stronger mid-career earnings.

However, that first year remains a financial squeeze. At $31,491, new graduates earn below both Texas and national medians, making the 0.85 debt-to-earnings ratio feel tighter than it looks on paper. The 40th percentile ranking among Texas programs suggests middle-of-the-pack performance in a competitive state market—programs like UT Rio Grande Valley and Texas A&M deliver stronger early outcomes at similar or lower debt levels.

The value proposition here depends on your child's specific career path within allied health. If they're targeting roles that reward experience and additional credentials over time, this program's growth pattern aligns well. But if they need strong immediate earnings to manage debt repayment, programs with higher starting salaries deserve consideration. The moderate sample size adds some uncertainty, but the earnings trend is the strongest argument in this program's favor.