Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Mountain Empire Community College
with a smaller student body of 1,240 in Big Stone Gap, VA.
Program Analysis
Mountain Empire Community College's Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions graduates start at $29,551/yr, trailing the $36,448 national average by 19%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
The 72.0x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 30% task exposure — and the 12% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions graduates.
Ranked #26 out of 61 programs, Mountain Empire Community College's Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
Earnings growth is modest: $29,551 to $34,411 over five years (16% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
With 5 registered apprenticeships mapped to Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health specialties teachers, postsecondary | $105,620 | +17.3% | 52% |
| Genetic counselors | $98,910 | +9.3% | 50% |
| Clinical and counseling psychologists | $95,830 | +11.2% | 63% |
About Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions Careers
Your career in this field is about direct human impact. As a psychiatric technician, one of the fastest-growing roles, you’ll work in hospitals or residential centers, monitoring patients, assisting with daily activities, and de-escalating crises. Or you might become a social worker, meeting with families in their homes or schools to connect them with vital services like housing or food assistance, or working in a hospital to help patients navigate complex healthcare decisions. Your initial roles may involve assisting senior staff, with earnings starting in the $40,000s.
Read the full Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions career guide →
Compare & Explore
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions Overview
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Other Schools
Other Majors at Mountain Empire Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.