At $32,285/yr net price, American Institute of Alternative Medicine graduates earn $40,805/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $6,805/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $32,285 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $129,140 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,805/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,805/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 19 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 54.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $31,690/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $32,494/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $33,924/yr |
| $110,001+ | $35,639/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $44,170 | $23,230 |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $26,933 | $14,290 |
| Somatic Bodywork and Related Therapeutic Services. | Certificate | $18,771 | $7,917 |
| Alternative and Complementary Medicine and Medical Systems. | Doctoral | $16,478 |
The Risk Factor
54.5% of students at American Institute of Alternative Medicine graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
American Institute of Alternative Medicine delivers weak financial returns that don't justify its high costs. With a net price of $32,285 annually and median graduate earnings of just $40,805, you're paying premium prices for below-average outcomes in a niche field with limited earning potential.
Only the nursing program offers reasonable financial prospects, with graduates earning $44,170 annually. However, even this program saddles you with $23,230 in debt, and you can access similar nursing programs at community colleges for a fraction of the cost. The practical nursing track pays just $26,933 with $14,290 in debt, making the return on investment questionable.
Alternative medicine programs show the worst financial outcomes. Somatic bodywork graduates earn $18,771 annually, while alternative medicine majors make only $16,478. These wages barely cover basic living expenses, let alone justify the school's steep tuition.
The 54.5% graduation rate means nearly half of students leave without completing their programs, often still carrying debt. You face significant risk of joining this group given the school's track record.
This school might work financially only if you're certain about pursuing nursing and have exhausted cheaper options, or if you have substantial family financial support that eliminates borrowing needs. Most students should look elsewhere. Community colleges offer better-value nursing programs, while state universities provide broader career options at lower costs. The specialized alternative medicine focus limits your career flexibility if your interests change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American Institute of Alternative Medicine worth the cost?
The school's ROI is questionable with graduates earning $40,805 ten years after enrollment while paying $32,285 annually. Only the registered nursing program offers decent returns at $44,170, while alternative medicine graduates average just $16,478.
What are the job prospects after graduating from American Institute of Alternative Medicine?
Job prospects vary dramatically by program. Nursing graduates can expect reasonable employment opportunities, but alternative medicine and bodywork programs lead to significantly lower earnings that may not justify the tuition costs.
How much debt do American Institute of Alternative Medicine students graduate with?
The median debt is relatively low at $9,500, which helps offset the poor earnings potential in most programs. However, with a 54% graduation rate, many students leave without completing their degrees.
Which programs at American Institute of Alternative Medicine have the best return on investment?
Registered nursing offers the best ROI with graduates earning $44,170, while practical nursing averages $26,933. Alternative medicine and bodywork programs show poor returns with graduates earning under $19,000 annually.