Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $71,380/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$37,380/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $13,758 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,798 | $12,048 |
Analysis
Southside College of Health Sciences delivers solid financial returns for a two-year health sciences program, with graduates earning a median of $71,380 annually while carrying manageable debt loads of $13,758. This debt-to-income ratio puts you in a strong position to pay off loans quickly in Virginia's competitive healthcare job market.
The school's focus on Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions shows weaker returns at $43,798 annually, though the lower debt burden of $12,048 for this track still creates a workable financial picture. Your earning potential will depend heavily on which specific healthcare certification you pursue and whether you continue education beyond the two-year program.
The biggest financial risk here is the school's limited program diversity. If healthcare isn't your calling or if you struggle with the coursework, you have few alternatives without starting over elsewhere. The relatively low percentage of students receiving financial aid at 31% suggests either higher family incomes among students or limited institutional aid availability.
This school works best financially if you're committed to healthcare, want to enter the workforce quickly, and prefer avoiding the higher debt loads of four-year programs. The Virginia healthcare market offers steady employment opportunities that align well with the school's training focus.
You should look elsewhere if you're uncertain about healthcare as a career path, need extensive financial aid, or want the flexibility to change majors. The specialized nature of this institution means your investment only pays off if you complete the program and work in healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southside College of Health Sciences worth the cost?
With 10-year median earnings of $71,380 and relatively low debt at $13,758, Southside College of Health Sciences offers solid value for most graduates. The manageable debt burden makes this school a reasonable investment compared to many other health science programs.
What are the best paying programs at Southside College of Health Sciences?
The top program at Southside College of Health Sciences is Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions, with graduates earning around $43,798. This falls below the school's overall median earnings, so other programs likely offer better financial returns.
How much student debt do Southside College of Health Sciences graduates have?
Southside College of Health Sciences graduates leave with a median debt of $13,758, which is relatively low for health science programs. This debt level is manageable given the school's median earnings of over $70,000.
Do Southside College of Health Sciences graduates find good jobs?
With median earnings of $71,380 ten years after graduation, Southside College of Health Sciences graduates generally find decent-paying positions in healthcare. The low debt-to-income ratio suggests most graduates can support themselves comfortably after completing their programs.