Median Earnings (1yr)
$37,782
15th percentile (25th in KS)
Median Debt
$26,684
14% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.71
Manageable
Sample Size
43
Adequate data

Analysis

Wichita State's Health and Medical Administrative Services program delivers notably weaker outcomes than other Kansas options. At $37,782 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 28% less than the state median of $52,016—landing in just the 25th percentile among Kansas programs. The gap is even wider compared to top Kansas performers like Ottawa University ($75,385) and Washburn University ($52,016). While the debt load of $26,684 is relatively manageable, the modest earnings mean this program still ranks in the 72nd percentile nationally for debt burden.

The limited earnings growth compounds the concern. After four years, median earnings reach only $39,091—a 4% increase that barely outpaces inflation. This suggests graduates may be hitting a ceiling quickly in entry-level administrative roles without clear pathways to higher-earning positions. Even comparing nationally, this program sits in just the 15th percentile for earnings, indicating the issue extends beyond Kansas competition.

For families considering this program, the question is whether healthcare administration truly requires a four-year degree when certificate programs or associate degrees might deliver similar outcomes at lower cost. If your student is committed to healthcare administration, exploring why this program underperforms both state and national averages is essential—perhaps it lacks the internship networks or specialized tracks that drive better outcomes elsewhere in Kansas.

Where Wichita State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all health and medical administrative services bachelors's programs nationally

Wichita State UniversityOther health and medical administrative services programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Wichita State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Wichita State University graduates earn $38k, placing them in the 15th percentile of all health and medical administrative services bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas

Health and Medical Administrative Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (11 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Wichita State University$37,782$39,091$26,6840.71
Ottawa University-Kansas City$75,385—$29,1980.39
Ottawa University-Online$75,385—$29,1980.39
Ottawa University-Ottawa$75,385—$29,1980.39
Washburn University$52,016$50,420$26,5000.51
Rasmussen University-Kansas$46,361$49,420$44,3590.96
National Median$44,345—$30,9980.70

Other Health and Medical Administrative Services Programs in Kansas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kansas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Ottawa University-Kansas City
Overland Park
—$75,385$29,198
Ottawa University-Online
Overland Park
—$75,385$29,198
Ottawa University-Ottawa
Ottawa
$35,300$75,385$29,198
Washburn University
Topeka
$9,578$52,016$26,500
Rasmussen University-Kansas
Topeka
$15,340$46,361$44,359

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Wichita State University, approximately 30% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 43 graduates with reported earnings and 55 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.