Health and Medical Administrative Services at University of Phoenix-California

This University of Phoenix health administration certificate delivers solid, if unspectacular, value for students seeking entry into healthcare support roles. With starting salaries around $28,200 and debt of just $12,125, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43—well below the concerning 1.0 threshold. The program performs slightly above average nationally (54th percentile) and better within California (60th percentile), suggesting decent competitive positioning despite the state's higher living costs.

However, the earnings ceiling appears limited. Even after four years, median pay reaches only $33,138, and the program ranks well below California's top performers—Santa Barbara City College graduates earn nearly $47,000 compared to Phoenix's $28,200. The 18% earnings growth over four years is respectable but may not keep pace with inflation or career advancement expectations in healthcare administration.

The relatively low debt load is this program's strongest selling point, making it accessible for students who need to minimize financial risk. For families seeking a quick, affordable entry point into healthcare administration, this certificate provides reasonable value. However, if your child has the academic credentials and time for more competitive programs, California offers significantly higher-earning alternatives that justify their additional investment.