At $37,208/yr net price, Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences graduates earn $69,731/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $35,731/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $37,208 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $148,832 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $69,731/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$35,731/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 67.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $32,405/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $33,271/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $34,912/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $39,909/yr |
| $110,001+ | $41,566/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. | Bachelor | $67,180 | $19,500 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $58,931 | $16,969 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $53,358 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $50,856 | $12,000 |
The Risk Factor
67.0% of students at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 33% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences delivers solid financial returns for healthcare-focused students, with median earnings of $69,731 ten years post-graduation against relatively manageable debt loads. The school's specialized focus on health sciences creates clear pathways to stable, well-paying careers in Pennsylvania's strong healthcare job market.
Nursing programs represent your best financial bet here. The top nursing track generates $67,180 annually with $19,500 in median debt, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio. Even the lower-earning nursing option at $58,931 pairs with just $16,969 in debt. Allied health programs show more variation, with some tracks earning over $53,000 while others hover around $50,000.
The school's 67% graduation rate and 65% retention rate signal completion challenges that could derail your investment. If you struggle with demanding coursework or need extensive support services, these numbers suggest you might not finish your program. The relatively low financial aid participation rate of 30% means most students pay closer to the full net price of $37,208 annually.
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences works financially if you're committed to healthcare careers and can handle the academic rigor. The Lancaster area offers abundant healthcare employment opportunities, and the school's industry connections help with job placement. However, students uncertain about healthcare or those needing significant academic support face higher risks of dropping out with debt but no degree. Look elsewhere if you want broader career options or need a more supportive academic environment to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences worth the cost?
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences offers solid value for nursing students, with graduates earning $69,731 annually and relatively low debt at $17,500. However, the 67% graduation rate means one in three students don't finish, which creates financial risk.
What are the best paying programs at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences?
Nursing programs at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences lead earnings, with registered nursing graduates making around $67,180. Allied health programs pay less at $50,000-$53,000, making the return on investment weaker for these fields.
How much debt do Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences graduates have?
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences graduates carry a median debt of $17,500, which is manageable compared to the $37,208 annual cost. The low debt load helps make the nursing programs financially viable despite the high sticker price.
Does Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences have good job prospects after graduation?
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences graduates earn $69,731 ten years after graduation, reflecting strong demand for healthcare workers. The school's focus on nursing and healthcare fields aligns well with job market needs in these growing sectors.