Public Health at University of Maryland-College Park

Maryland's public health program shows exactly what parents hope for: graduates start modestly but experience real career momentum. That 52% earnings jump from year one to year four—from $38k to $58k—far exceeds typical bachelor's degree patterns and suggests graduates are landing in fields with clear advancement paths. Among Maryland's five public health programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings despite carrying more debt than the state median of $18,087.

The $23,424 in debt sits below the national median for public health programs and creates a manageable first-year ratio of 0.61—meaning graduates owe less than 8 months of their starting salary. By year four, when earnings hit $58k, that debt burden becomes quite comfortable. It's worth noting that even prestigious Johns Hopkins, with its significantly higher costs, produces public health graduates earning slightly less ($36,540) in their first year.

For families choosing between Maryland's in-state options, this program offers strong value: competitive earnings growth, reasonable debt, and the backing of a flagship university's recruiting network. The trajectory here matters more than the starting point—these graduates are building careers, not just finding first jobs.