Public Health at Walden University

Walden University's online public health program produces graduates earning $44,285 initially—well above the national median of $37,548 and ranking in the 86th percentile nationally. Among Minnesota programs, however, the picture is more nuanced: this falls in the 60th percentile statewide, trailing the top performer (Winona State at $46,250) but still ahead of several traditional campus programs.

The real concern here is the debt load. At $45,793, graduates are borrowing nearly double the national median of $26,000 for public health degrees, putting this in just the 5th percentile nationally for debt (meaning 95% of programs have lower debt). That first-year debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.03 means borrowing an entire year's salary, which is manageable but tight, especially considering half of students receive Pell grants. Earnings do grow to $48,167 by year four, providing some relief.

One critical caveat: the sample size here is under 30 graduates, so individual circumstances could be skewing these numbers significantly. For parents considering this online program, the key question is whether the convenience and accessibility justify borrowing roughly $20,000 more than typical public health graduates. If your child needs the flexibility of online learning and can manage the monthly payments on $46,000 in debt, the earnings outcomes are solid. But if they can attend a lower-debt Minnesota program, they'd likely come out ahead financially.