Health Training Programs Show Wide Gaps in Returns for California

File photoCalifornia's community college health care training programs deliver dramatically different economic outcomes depending on which path workers choose, with some credentials nearly doubling earnings while others provide minimal wage gains, according to a new report from the Public Policy Institute of California.

The report found that intensive programs resulting in associate degrees in registered nursing, dental hygiene, and certain allied health technologies can increase earnings significantly within six years of completion. However, shorter certificate programs for positions like nursing assistants and medical assistants show little to no wage improvement despite requiring substantial time and money investments.

"The specific health programs Californians pursue have clear implications for future economic gains and career opportunities," the report states. 

Mid-length certificate programs for licensed vocational nurses and psychiatric technicians fall somewhere in between, offering moderate wage gains that vary considerably by region. The findings come as California officials work to expand health career pathways under the state's Vision 2030 plan and the Governor's Master Plan on Career Education, both of which emphasize connecting workers to well-paying jobs in key sectors.

Health care represents California's largest and fastest-growing employment sector, driven by an aging population and expanded health coverage. Many health occupations offer economic mobility opportunities for workers without four-year degrees, making them relatively unique in the labor market. But access to high-return programs remains severely constrained. 

Registered nursing programs have seen growing waiting lists despite increasing numbers of qualified applicants, leading to calls for expanded training capacity at community colleges. Programs with the best economic outcomes also require multiple prerequisite courses and competitive admission processes, creating barriers for many potential students.

The report reveals stark demographic patterns in program enrollment. Women comprise approximately 70 percent of total enrollments in health programs studied, rising to nearly 90 percent in nursing, medical assisting, and dental programs. Emergency medical technician and paramedic programs represent a notable exception, with more than 70 percent male enrollment.