Health and Medical Administrative Services at University of Phoenix-Arizona

This University of Phoenix program presents a concerning financial picture that should give parents pause. While starting salaries are competitive—ranking in the 60th percentile among Arizona's health administration programs—graduates actually see their earnings *decline* by 8% over four years, from $44,580 to $41,208. This "early peak" pattern is unusual and problematic for long-term career prospects.

The debt burden makes this investment particularly risky. At nearly $52,000, graduate debt is 68% higher than the national median for this field and well above Arizona's state median of $38,570. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.17, graduates will struggle with loan payments that likely exceed 10% of their gross income. The program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for debt levels—meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with less debt.

When you can attend Arizona State University for the same degree with similar starting earnings but presumably lower debt (as a state institution), or pursue programs at Ottawa University-Surprise or Pima Medical Institute with significantly higher earning potential, this Phoenix option looks like poor value. The combination of declining earnings and excessive debt creates a financial trap that could burden your child for years after graduation.