Somatic Bodywork at The College of Health Care Professions-Fort Worth

With earnings hovering around $20,000 and debt under $7,100, this somatic bodywork certificate reflects the financial realities of massage therapy work—low entry barriers but also limited income potential. The program performs slightly better than the Texas median and right at the national average, which means it's neither a standout nor a disappointment. The concerning part? That debt percentile ranking: this program carries higher debt than 86% of similar programs nationally, even though the absolute amount seems modest. At Parker University, also in Texas, graduates earn $32,000—suggesting location and school reputation matter significantly in this field.

The 23% earnings growth from year one to year four is encouraging, and the 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable compared to many certificate programs. With 64% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a population seeking quick workforce entry. However, students should understand they're entering a field where full-time hours can be difficult to sustain due to the physical demands, which explains why even four years out, median earnings remain under $25,000. If your child is passionate about bodywork and has realistic expectations about the income ceiling, the relatively quick path and low debt make this workable—but they should plan for supplemental income or a very frugal lifestyle.