Health Professions at University of Maryland-Baltimore County

UMBC's Health Professions program starts graduates at $39,524—barely above the national median—but then accelerates sharply to $53,762 by year four, a 36% jump that outpaces typical career progression in this field. That growth trajectory matters because it suggests graduates are moving into more specialized or supervisory roles relatively quickly, turning what looks like a modest start into competitive mid-career earnings. Among Maryland's five health professions programs, this one lands at the 60th percentile for earnings while maintaining debt below the state median.

The $20,375 debt load is the real advantage here. At roughly half of first-year earnings, it's manageable even during those leaner early years, and becomes increasingly comfortable as salaries climb. This is notably better than the $26,000 national median, giving UMBC graduates more financial flexibility as they establish their careers. The moderate sample size means these patterns are reasonably reliable, though not based on hundreds of graduates.

For parents evaluating this program, the key question is whether your child can weather that first year or two at under $40,000 while building toward stronger mid-career prospects. If they're willing to start in entry-level healthcare positions and grow into the role, UMBC delivers solid value with controlled debt. If they need higher immediate earnings, look elsewhere—but recognize you might be trading away that strong growth curve.