Health and Medical Administrative Services at University of Rio Grande

In Ohio, healthcare administration programs show dramatic variation—top performers place graduates earning $54,000 to $57,000 within their first year, while others cluster in the low $40,000s. University of Rio Grande's program appears to track with the state median at an estimated $42,663, based on comparable Ohio programs. That's roughly $15,000 below what students at Cincinnati or Ohio State earn in similar roles, a gap that matters when you're carrying nearly $40,000 in debt.

The estimated debt load here is concerning. At $38,558, it exceeds both the state median for these programs ($25,750) and the national benchmark ($30,998) by substantial margins. With earnings estimates around $42,663, you're looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.90—meaning the borrowed amount nearly equals a full year's salary. Healthcare administration roles exist everywhere, but better-compensated positions typically require either specific clinical experience or location flexibility that not all graduates have.

Given that 36% of students here receive Pell grants, many families are already stretching financially. If your student is committed to staying in southeastern Ohio, this program might provide local connections and reasonable access to healthcare employers in the region. But if they can attend a state university with stronger placement numbers—and potentially lower debt—that's almost certainly the smarter financial path, even with commuting or modest relocation costs factored in.