Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 34.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $37,448
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $13,393
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 30:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 35.9%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $142/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $30,119 | |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Associate | $26,933 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $26,933 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $24,035 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $18,087 | |
| Psychology, General. | Associate | $16,169 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Associate | $11,851 | $10,142 |
Outcomes Overview
Palo Alto College graduates carry a median debt of $13,393, which equals just 36% of their typical $37,448 earnings after ten years. Monthly loan payments of $142 consume only 4.5% of graduates' income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The 87.7% employment rate reflects strong job placement in San Antonio's growing healthcare, logistics, and skilled trades sectors. Many graduates use their associate degrees as stepping stones to four-year universities or enter the workforce in high-demand technical fields. With low debt burdens and solid earning potential relative to the modest investment, Palo Alto College delivers a strong return on investment for students seeking affordable career preparation.