Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at Tulane University of Louisiana

Tulane's health sciences program sits in an unusual position: competitive earnings among Louisiana schools ($39,553 starting salary matches the state median), but carrying notably more debt than typical in-state alternatives—about $4,000 above the Louisiana median for this degree. The 31% earnings growth to $51,792 by year four suggests the degree has staying power, but small program size (fewer than 30 graduates tracked) makes these numbers less reliable.

The debt-to-earnings picture looks manageable at 0.76, though it's worth noting that Northwestern State's health sciences program in Louisiana produces significantly higher starting salaries ($59,186) with similar or lower debt loads. That's a $20,000 annual difference right out of the gate. You're paying a selective university premium at Tulane (15% admission rate, 1443 average SAT) without the earnings premium typically associated with highly selective schools.

For an anxious parent, the question is whether Tulane's broader institutional reputation and network justify the extra cost when Louisiana public universities are delivering stronger outcomes in this specific field. If your child values the Tulane experience and doesn't mind starting behind financially, the growth trajectory offers some reassurance. But if maximizing health sciences career value is the priority, state schools appear to offer better returns here.