2026 Most Popular healthcare Degree Programs Ranking in Des Moines

What can I expect from healthcare degree in Des Moines?

If you're curious about the cost of a healthcare degree in Des Moines, expect something around $16, 000 for an associate program like the Health Administration Specialist at Des Moines Area Community College. Graduates often say the investment feels worth it, especially since many programs include hands-on experiences that help ease the transition into real healthcare jobs.

Take Mercy College of Health Sciences, for example. Students there enjoy accelerated programs with strong clinical rotations that get them job-ready fast. While exact tuition varies by degree and level, many find the practical skills and years of experience the college offers to be a smart value.

Meanwhile, folks aiming for leadership roles at Upper Iowa University's Des Moines center might spend a bit more, especially for a master's degree. Flexible scheduling helps students balance life and studies, which adds extra peace of mind. Across the board, Des Moines healthcare programs focus on real-world learning, so grads feel confident stepping into their careers without breaking the bank.

Where can I work with healthcare degree in Des Moines?

If you earn a healthcare degree in Des Moines, you're stepping into a city packed with job options. Graduates from places like Des Moines University or Grand View University often find themselves right in the thick of it at big healthcare centers like MercyOne or UnityPoint Health. It's common to see your classmates landing gigs as nurses, medical techs, or in support roles, which feels great when you realize your hard work pays off quickly.

Many grads love that they can jump into hospital shifts, outpatient clinics, or even specialized care centers without hassle. Some also take on travel healthcare jobs, hopping between facilities on short contracts-a cool way to explore different experiences and find what really clicks for you.

Plus, there are lots of admin and public health roles for those who want to stay behind the scenes but still make a big impact. Whether you're aiming for patient care or healthcare management, Des Moines' thriving health scene means you can find a role that fits your vibe and your lifestyle.

How much can I make with healthcare degree in Des Moines?

If you're earning a healthcare degree in Des Moines, you're stepping into a field with some pretty solid earning potential. Graduates from local colleges often find themselves landing jobs like Medical Assistants, who typically make about $43, 350 a year or $20. 84 an hour. It might sound modest, but it's a great starting point for building experience and confidence.

For those who dive into roles like Patient Care Technicians, the cash flow looks even better-around $60, 790 annually or about $29. 23 per hour. Imagine finishing up your day helping patients, knowing you're earning a respectable wage learned right here in Des Moines.

And if you've specialized a bit more, say as a Quality Improvement Coordinator, you're looking at a fantastic $103, 150 a year, which really highlights how higher-level degrees from area schools can boost your paycheck.

Health Information Technicians and Clinical Research Coordinators also earn solid salaries near the $43, 350 mark, making a healthcare degree from Des Moines campuses not just smart but genuinely rewarding.

How long does it take to complete healthcare degree in Des Moines?

If you're thinking about a healthcare degree in Des Moines, you'll want to know how long it usually takes. For most students, Associate degrees like the ADN at Des Moines Area Community College wrap up in about two years. Many grads share how rewarding it feels to pass the LPN exam after the first year, then jump right into RN courses the next.

Bachelor's degrees, such as those at Mercy College of Health Sciences, typically take around four years. Graduates often mention how juggling general education classes with those major healthcare courses really prepares you for the real world. Plus, Mercy's flexible start dates make it easier to dive in when you're ready.

Looking at graduate school, programs like the Master of Health Care Administration at Des Moines University usually last close to two years. Students love how focused and manageable the course load is, leaving them ready to lead in healthcare settings. Certificate programs can vary but often wrap up within one to two years after prerequisites, giving a great boost to your career.

Campus Life and Community Engagement in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines offers more than a top-notch education—it provides a rich campus life and a strong sense of community that enhance the overall student experience. Healthcare students not only gain academic knowledge but also benefit from vibrant extracurricular activities, networking events, and community outreach programs that foster personal growth and professional connections. Many institutions in the area host health clubs, simulation competitions, and mentorship programs that allow students to interact with industry professionals and alumni, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers. Moreover, engaging in community service initiatives and local health campaigns helps students build valuable relationships and gain real-world insights into patient care and public health challenges. For a broader perspective on educational excellence, explore the best popular healthcare colleges that emphasize both academic rigor and a holistic student experience. This supportive environment not only cultivates technical skills but also nurtures the interpersonal qualities essential for success in the ever-evolving healthcare field.

What's the difference between online and on-campus healthcare degree?

If you're thinking about a healthcare degree in Des Moines, the biggest difference between online and on-campus programs is how you experience your learning journey. Online degrees, like those from Mercy College of Health Sciences, let you study from your couch or wherever you feel comfy. Many grads say the flexibility is a game-changer-they can work, take care of family, and still keep up with coursework on their own schedule. Plus, virtual classes and group chats make sure you still feel part of a community, even if it's through a screen.

On the flip side, going on-campus at places like Des Moines University means being right in the heartbeat of campus life. You get hands-on time in labs, face-to-face talks with instructors, and those spontaneous hallway chats that help build strong connections. Some grads mention how immersing themselves on campus helped them stay motivated and made clinical practice feel real.

Consider Advanced Online Healthcare Master’s Programs

As healthcare careers become increasingly specialized, many graduates choose to pursue an online master’s degree to enhance their skills and leadership prospects without interrupting their professional momentum. Flexible online healthcare master’s programs offer coursework in advanced topics—such as health informatics, administration, and public health policy—delivered through interactive virtual classrooms, recorded lectures, and collaborative project platforms. These programs often allow you to tailor your schedule around clinical shifts or family commitments, while providing access to expert faculty and peer networks from across the country. When evaluating online master’s options, accreditation and affordability are paramount. Accredited programs ensure your credential is recognized by employers and licensure boards, while cost-effective tuition safeguards your return on investment. To explore some of the most budget-friendly, high-quality online pathways, review the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Healthcare Degree Programs Ranking in Georgia. This resource highlights institutions that balance academic rigor with competitive pricing, enabling you to select a program that aligns with both your career ambitions and financial considerations. Before applying, verify program accreditation (e.g., CAHME, CEPH), review course delivery models, and consider support services such as virtual advising and career placement. By choosing the right online master’s program, you can accelerate your trajectory into leadership roles—whether that’s as a health services manager, clinical informatics specialist, or public health director—while maintaining the flexibility your schedule demands.

What is the average cost of healthcare degree in Des Moines?

When it comes to the average cost of healthcare degrees in Des Moines, you're looking at some pretty clear numbers to help plan your budget. Local graduates often find that the median total cost hovers around $47, 488. If you're an in-state student, tuition and fees tend to be a bit lower, coming in at about $33, 450 on average. This makes programs at places like Des Moines Area Community College or Grand View University more accessible, especially when compared to out-of-state rates.

Many students share that while private universities in Des Moines offer fantastic healthcare programs, the tuition-sometimes touching $38, 000 annually at Drake University-can feel daunting. Still, they express enthusiasm about the quality of education and campus resources they get in return. For example, associate degrees at community colleges usually cost less, making them a go-to for many seeking affordable options and quicker entry into the field.

Keep in mind, the Des Moines healthcare degree tuition and fees don't include all expenses. Textbooks, lab fees, and clinical uniforms add up, but financial aid and scholarships often help ease these costs. A lot of local students find relief through state grants and employer tuition assistance programs. For those curious about quicker pathways to a healthcare career, checking out the best 6 month programs that pay well can be an inspiring start.

Licensure and Certification Requirements

Earning a healthcare degree in Des Moines, IA, is just the first step on your professional journey—obtaining the appropriate licensure and certifications is essential to practice. In Iowa, the Board of Nursing oversees the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN exams for registered and practical nurses, respectively; graduates from accredited programs like Drake University and DMACC report pass rates above the state average. For Patient Care Technicians, the National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) credential verifies competence in basic clinical skills, while Medical Assistants can pursue the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) designation through the American Association of Medical Assistants to bolster employability in clinics and outpatient centers. Health Information Technicians often aim for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam offered by AHIMA, which requires completion of a CAHIIM-accredited associate degree. Those interested in administration and coding may seek the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential from AHIMA or the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC. For advanced practice and leadership roles, many graduates explore master’s-level credentials; for cost-conscious programs beyond Iowa, consider the Most Affordable Online Master's in Healthcare Degree Programs Ranking in Georgia. Maintaining licensure in Iowa requires ongoing continuing education—nurses must complete 36 continuing education hours every three years, and health information professionals renew certification biennially with 20 hours of approved CE. Understanding these requirements early helps students select programs with integrated NCLEX prep courses, clinical externships, and exam review workshops, ensuring a smooth transition from graduation to professional practice.

What financial aid is available to healthcare degree students in Des Moines?

When you're going for a healthcare degree in Des Moines, there's a nice mix of financial help waiting for you. For example, if you're at Mercy College of Health Sciences, you could grab scholarships that add up to over $300, 000 each year. Some grads have shared how these scholarships really eased their worries about tuition, letting them focus more on classes and less on bills.

One standout option is the MercyOne Scholars Program, which not only covers tuition for fields like nursing and physical therapy but might also toss in up to $12, 500 a year for living expenses. The catch? You just commit to working for MercyOne after graduation-a deal a lot of students find pretty fair.

Plus, there's always the trusty FAFSA route, opening doors to federal grants like the Pell Grant and state grants such as the Iowa Tuition Grant. Students from DMACC also tap into outside scholarships, including some funded by the Iowa Hospital Association, which can offer thousands over a couple of years.

From emergency grants to low student loan default rates, schools here know how to support healthcare students through thick and thin, making the whole process feel way less stressful.

Certification and Advanced Career Opportunities

For many students, earning a healthcare degree is just the beginning of a rewarding journey. Complementary certifications and specialized training can significantly boost career advancement by equipping graduates with the latest industry standards and practical skills. For example, certification in medical coding not only refines your technical expertise but also enhances your employability in various healthcare settings. Many professionals ensure they stay ahead by engaging in continuous education courses, attending workshops, and participating in internships to build a robust network within the industry. Alongside these initiatives, some students explore niche areas such as medical coding—read more about what requirements are needed to become a a medical coder—which can be a critical factor in setting their career apart in the competitive healthcare landscape. Embracing these advanced opportunities can lead to higher earning potential, improved patient outcomes, and long-term professional growth.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in healthcare degree program in Des Moines?

If you're thinking about jumping into a healthcare degree program in Des Moines, you'll want to know the ropes first. For example, if you're aiming for an undergrad public health degree at places like the University of Iowa or Des Moines Area Community College, expect to have completed some solid science courses like General Biology I and II, Introductory Chemistry, and Calculus I. Most students tell me that keeping a GPA around 2. 75 helps smooth your way in.

For those eyeing nursing at DMACC, the prerequisites get a bit more specific. Students share that having "B" grades in Anatomy & Physiology I and II and passing Developmental Psychology and Composition I are musts. Plus, getting certified as a Nurse Aide-a program that's about 120 hours long-really preps you for the hands-on stuff ahead.

Graduate hopefuls at Des Moines University aiming for a Master in Health Care Administration need a bachelor's degree and a GPA of at least 2. 5, with a clear ability to tackle challenging coursework. Mercy College of Health Sciences also keeps things accessible, with minimum GPA requirements that make starting or transferring doable without extra stress.

Return on Investment for Healthcare Degrees in Des Moines, IA

Investing in a healthcare degree in Des Moines can yield substantial returns, but it’s important to weigh tuition costs against post-graduation earnings. On average, a bachelor’s degree in health sciences at local institutions like Drake University carries total tuition and fees around $120,000 over four years, while an associate degree at Des Moines Area Community College may cost closer to $20,000. Graduates can expect starting salaries ranging from $41,000 for Health Information Technicians to $56,000 for Patient Care Technicians, with mid-career earnings often surpassing $74,000 in roles such as Health Services Administrator. When calculating the payback period—the time it takes to recoup tuition through increased earnings—an associate degree in medical assisting may pay for itself within 1–2 years, whereas a bachelor’s program may require 4–6 years. For those seeking to minimize debt and accelerate workforce entry, exploring low cost medical assistant programs can be a strategic alternative, offering certification pathways at under $10,000 and strong job placement rates. Beyond salary, factors such as benefits, loan forgiveness programs, and career advancement opportunities should be considered. Federal loan repayment assistance, state-sponsored grants, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement can dramatically reduce net education costs, shortening your break-even horizon. By assessing long-term compensation growth—healthcare administration roles often see 5–7% annual salary increases—and factoring in total program costs, you can make an informed decision that maximizes both your financial and professional outcomes in Des Moines’s robust healthcare market.

What courses are typically in healthcare degree programs in Des Moines?

If you're diving into a healthcare degree in Des Moines, expect to tackle courses like anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and healthcare ethics-basics that build a solid foundation no matter your focus. Graduates from local programs often mention how these classes helped them understand the human body and the language professionals use every day, making the later hands-on work way less intimidating.

Students aiming for healthcare management at places like the University of Iowa enjoy courses in healthcare law, leadership, and financial management that prepare them to run real healthcare operations smoothly. One grad shared how learning about corporate financial reporting made budgeting look less scary when stepping into their first admin role.

For clinical folks, especially at UnityPoint Health-Des Moines, the practical stuff like patient care and diagnostic imaging really shines. Graduates often say the hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment gave them total confidence walking into clinical rotations or their first job.

And don't forget, many programs include public health and community health courses, especially at Drake University and Upper Iowa University, which helps grads feel ready to impact their communities positively.

What types of specializations are available in healthcare degree programs in Des Moines?

If you're looking into healthcare degree specializations in Des Moines, you've got some solid options. Nursing is a big one here-many students love that mix of hands-on work and deep patient care experience they get, especially with clinical rotations at places like Mercy Medical Center. Graduates often talk about how those real-world moments made all the difference. Then there's Health Information Management, perfect if you like working with tech and data. With healthcare going digital, this field is growing fast. It's exciting to be part of something shaping the future, especially at local colleges that connect students with healthcare admin roles.

Other cool tracks include Public Health, where you can focus on community wellness and disease prevention-something that feels really rewarding when you see it impacting Iowa neighborhoods. Medical Laboratory Science is great if you're into behind-the-scenes diagnostics, supporting doctors and hospitals directly. And don't forget Physical Therapy, which is booming thanks to Des Moines' aging population needing rehab experts. Many graduates find their skills immediately in demand.

For those wondering about how to get started easily, some students even explore the easiest associates degrees to get as a quick way into the field. It's all about finding the path that fits your passions here in Des Moines.

How do you choose the best healthcare degree in Des Moines?

Picking the best healthcare degree in Des Moines is really about matching the program to what you want your future to look like. Graduates from Des Moines University often mention how crucial it was to choose a degree that aligned with their specific career goals-whether that was nursing, physical therapy, or healthcare administration. Many local students appreciate the flexibility of part-time and evening classes offered by community colleges, especially if they're balancing jobs or family. It's smart to look for programs with solid clinical training nearby; hands-on experience at local hospitals can make a huge difference when you start job hunting. Since cost matters, comparing affordable healthcare degrees in Des Moines can help you avoid sticker shock-public options usually cost around $9, 000 a year for in-state students. If you're curious about advanced degrees too, check out some of the cheapest online doctoral programs for options you can do without leaving Des Moines.

What career paths are available for healthcare degree students in Des Moines?

If you're thinking about healthcare degree career options in Des Moines, you'll find there's a bunch of rewarding paths to explore. Nursing is a favorite, with many graduates landing nursing roles in local hospitals where the demand is up because of the aging population. Others dive into lab tech positions or health information jobs, supporting patient care behind the scenes with data and diagnostics. Physical therapy assistants and occupational therapy aides are also in demand as rehab services grow around the city.

Graduates from popular colleges in Des Moines often share how healthcare administration caught their interest-it's a great fit if you like managing operations in clinics or insurance companies. Plus, public health careers are popping up more and more, where you can work on local health programs or disease prevention. If you want to get a sense of which schools offer solid opportunities, check out the best colleges that guide many students toward these career options.

Job opportunities for healthcare graduates Des Moines offer real, meaningful ways to make a difference while building a strong career close to home.

What is the job market for healthcare degree in Des Moines?

The healthcare job opportunities in Des Moines are looking pretty bright, especially for recent graduates from popular local schools. Many who earned their healthcare degrees from Des Moines Area Community College or Grand View University find themselves stepping into nursing, health administration, or medical tech roles without much delay. The solid presence of big employers like MercyOne and UnityPoint Health means there's a genuine flow of openings, often with competitive wages that beat the state average.

If you're worried about tuition costs, many students appreciate that healthcare programs in Des Moines are relatively affordable compared to other states, and that helps ease the financial stress while focusing on building a career. Graduates often share how the city's lower cost of living really stretches their salary farther, creating a comfortable balance between work and life.

For those curious about what to study or how to boost earning potential, there's helpful info about what certifications can i get online that pay well. It's a smart way many healthcare degree holders improve their chances in this growing job market.

Des Moines healthcare degree employment outlook remains strong thanks to steady growth driven by an aging population and expanding healthcare services in the region.