Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $93,610/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$59,610/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $40,326 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $87,682 | $37,584 |
The Risk Factor
50.0% of students at American University of Health Sciences 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 University of Health Sciences delivers strong earning potential but comes with significant completion risks that could derail your investment. The median graduate earns $93,610 annually, well above national averages, but only half of students actually finish their programs.
Nursing programs dominate the school's offerings and provide solid returns despite substantial debt loads. Registered nursing graduates earn $87,682 yearly while carrying $37,584 in debt, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio that should allow for reasonable repayment timelines. The strong job market for nurses in Southern California supports these earnings figures.
The school's biggest financial risk is its 50% graduation rate. If you become part of the half who don't complete your program, you'll likely carry debt without the degree needed to access higher-paying healthcare positions. This completion rate is particularly concerning given the school's for-profit status and the debt levels involved.
You're a good financial fit for this school if you're certain about pursuing nursing and have strong academic discipline to push through to graduation. The focused healthcare curriculum can fast-track you into a stable, well-paying field. However, if you're uncertain about your major or have struggled with course completion in the past, consider other options with higher graduation rates.
Nearly half of students receive financial aid, but as a for-profit institution, merit scholarships are likely limited. Focus on federal aid eligibility and consider whether community college nursing programs might offer similar career outcomes at lower cost and risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American University of Health Sciences worth the cost for nursing students?
The nursing programs show decent returns with graduates earning around $87,682 annually, which can justify the $40,326 median debt load. However, the 50% graduation rate means half of students don't finish their programs.
What is the return on investment for American University of Health Sciences graduates?
Graduates earn a median of $93,610 ten years after enrollment, which is solid for healthcare careers. The debt-to-income ratio is manageable for those who complete their degrees, but the graduation rate raises concerns about program completion.
Does American University of Health Sciences have high student debt compared to earnings?
The median debt of $40,326 is reasonable relative to the $93,610 median earnings after 10 years. Students typically see a positive return, though success depends heavily on program completion.
Are American University of Health Sciences programs financially risky?
The main financial risk is the 50% graduation rate, meaning many students accumulate debt without earning a degree. Those who do graduate generally see good earning potential in healthcare fields.