Public Health at The University of Tampa

The University of Tampa's public health program produces first-year earnings of $34,416—roughly $3,000 below the national median but nearly identical to Florida's state median. That's a modest start for a degree carrying $25,250 in debt, though the 0.73 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates can manage repayment without undue strain. Among Florida's 18 public health programs, Tampa sits squarely in the middle at the 40th percentile, far behind St. Petersburg College ($51,565) but competitive with larger state universities.

The real challenge here is value for money. Tampa charges private university tuition while delivering public health outcomes in line with state schools. With just 16% of students receiving Pell grants, this program primarily serves families who can afford significant tuition, making the middling outcomes harder to justify. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) also means one cohort's experience could swing these numbers considerably in either direction.

For families considering this program, the calculus is straightforward: you're paying private school prices for state-average outcomes in a field where earnings start modestly. Unless Tampa offers specific networking, internship connections, or career services that meaningfully differentiate it from Florida's public universities, the financial logic points toward more affordable alternatives with comparable or better results.