Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $66,318/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$32,318/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,500 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences. | Master | $198,793 | |
| Dentistry. | Doctoral | $121,046 | $250,824 |
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $116,509 | $138,945 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $112,660 | $70,335 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $92,277 | $92,386 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $76,460 | $31,255 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $69,775 | $61,500 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Master | $69,710 | $60,841 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Doctoral | $69,338 | $106,100 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $68,778 |
Analysis
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center delivers strong ROI for most programs despite significant upfront debt loads in several specialties. The median debt of just $12,500 across all programs masks dramatic variation by field, with some students borrowing six figures while others graduate debt-free.
Dentistry programs offer the highest earnings potential but require substantial investment. General dentistry graduates earn $121,046 annually while carrying $250,824 in debt, creating a manageable but lengthy payback period. Advanced dentistry specializations push earnings to nearly $200,000, making the debt burden more tolerable for those who complete additional training.
Pharmacy graduates face a tougher equation with $138,945 in debt against $116,509 in annual earnings. The profession's changing job market adds uncertainty to this already stretched ratio. Nursing provides the most balanced proposition, with graduates earning $112,660 while borrowing only $70,335 on average.
Allied health programs present mixed value. The $92,386 debt load nearly matches the $92,277 starting salary, creating immediate financial pressure for new graduates in this field.
This school works best for students committed to health professions who understand the debt requirements upfront. The 12.5% aid rate suggests limited financial assistance, making careful program selection critical. Nursing offers the strongest risk-adjusted returns, while pharmacy requires careful market analysis before enrollment.
Students considering expensive programs should secure in-state residency when possible and explore Tennessee-specific loan forgiveness programs for healthcare workers in underserved areas. Avoid this school if you need significant financial aid or remain uncertain about completing a demanding health sciences curriculum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The University of Tennessee Health Science Center worth the cost?
With median debt of just $12,500 and average earnings of $66,318 after 10 years, UTHSC offers strong financial returns for a health sciences school. The low debt burden makes this one of the more affordable paths into healthcare careers.
What are the highest paying programs at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center?
Dentistry programs lead earnings at UTHSC, with advanced dental specialties averaging $198,793 and general dentistry at $121,046. Pharmacy graduates earn around $116,509, while nursing graduates average $112,660.
How much debt do students graduate with from The University of Tennessee Health Science Center?
UTHSC graduates carry a median debt of $12,500, which is unusually low for a health sciences university. This makes the school accessible compared to other medical and dental programs that often result in six-figure debt loads.
Does The University of Tennessee Health Science Center have good financial aid?
The low median debt suggests UTHSC provides substantial financial support or affordable tuition. Students graduate with manageable debt levels that allow for reasonable loan repayment given typical healthcare salaries.