Public Health at University of St Thomas

University of St. Thomas graduates see their public health earnings jump 55% by year four—from $38,475 to $59,475—a trajectory that outpaces most competitors in Minnesota. While the starting salary matches the state median exactly, this program's strength lies in what happens next. That $59,475 four-year mark puts graduates well ahead of peers from higher-ranked Minnesota programs like St. Catherine ($42,407) and U of M-Duluth ($36,520), suggesting St. Thomas's network or career preparation creates meaningful long-term advantages.

The $27,000 debt load sits right at both state and national medians—manageable given the earnings trajectory. With a 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio at year one, graduates face a brief period of tighter budgets before the significant salary growth kicks in. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these patterns, though individual outcomes will vary.

For families willing to accept an average starting salary in exchange for strong earnings growth, this program delivers. The key question is whether your student can weather that first year or two of lower pay, because the data suggests patience pays off substantially here. If immediate high earnings are the priority, look at Winona State instead—but if career trajectory matters more, St. Thomas shows clear momentum.