Analysis
University of Northern Iowa's health professions program produces graduates earning around $39,000 shortly after graduation—essentially matching both the national median and what other Iowa programs report. The $20,844 in typical debt is notably lower than the national median of $26,000, giving graduates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53. That means borrowers can expect to owe roughly half their first year's salary, which is reasonable for a healthcare credential.
The earnings trajectory shows modest but steady growth, reaching $41,307 by year four. This isn't spectacular income growth, but it's consistent with many allied health careers where entry-level positions serve as stepping stones to specialization or advanced roles. The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Iowa health professions programs—middle of the pack, but with only two schools in the state offering similar degrees, that comparison has limited meaning.
The crucial caveat here: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift significantly with more data. For parents, this looks like a solid regional option if your student has a clear healthcare career path in mind and wants to avoid heavy debt. Just recognize that $39,000 starting salaries require careful budgeting, and the program's open admission suggests it may not be the most selective or resource-intensive option available.
Where University of Northern Iowa Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health professions bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Northern Iowa graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Northern Iowa | $39,045 | $41,307 | +6% |
| Excelsior University | $52,631 | $83,502 | +59% |
| Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia | $36,819 | $70,368 | +91% |
| Purdue University-Main Campus | $47,570 | $69,530 | +46% |
| Thomas Edison State University | $72,628 | $68,341 | -6% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Health Professions bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Northern IowaCedar Falls | $9,728 | $39,045 | $41,307 | $20,844 | 0.53 |
 Thomas Edison State UniversityTrenton | $6,638 | $72,628 | $68,341 | $19,018 | 0.26 |
 Kettering CollegeKettering | $15,672 | $70,890 | $58,053 | $37,613 | 0.53 |
 Saint Joseph's University - LancasterLancaster | $31,866 | $70,566 | — | $27,801 | 0.39 |
 University of North Carolina WilmingtonWilmington | $7,317 | $56,924 | $64,596 | $24,990 | 0.44 |
 Youngstown State UniversityYoungstown | $10,791 | $56,793 | $57,659 | $29,750 | 0.52 |
| National Median | — | $38,492 | — | $26,000 | 0.68 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Northern Iowa, approximately 24% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 28 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.