Public Health at University of Florida-Online

University of Florida-Online's public health bachelor's presents an unusual pattern that demands a closer look at timing. Fresh graduates earn just $30,056—putting this program in the bottom 5% nationally and slightly below Florida's median. But here's what matters: by year four, earnings jump 82% to $54,610, surpassing every other Florida public health program except St. Petersburg College. With only $17,580 in debt (well below both state and national averages), graduates who can weather those challenging early years end up ahead.

The question is whether your student can manage on $30,000 for a year or two. This matters especially since UF-Online attracts fewer low-income students (just 20% on Pell grants) than typical online programs. If your child needs immediate post-graduation income—perhaps to start repaying loans or cover living expenses—the slow start becomes a real obstacle. But for students with financial runway, perhaps living at home or with family support, the trajectory looks promising.

The math works if you can play the long game. That sub-$18K debt load means manageable payments even during the lean early years, and mid-career earnings that exceed most Florida competitors suggest strong eventual returns. Just be clear-eyed about budgeting for those first 12-24 months after graduation.