Clinical Laboratory Science at Southwest University at El Paso

El Paso, TX · Private for-profit · Associate Degree · Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions

a smaller institution with 1,817 students in El Paso, TX.

Program Analysis

At $30,423 per year, Clinical Laboratory Science graduates from Southwest University at El Paso earn below the $39,620 national average. Lower costs or geographic factors may offset the earnings gap.

With a 10.4x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Clinical Laboratory Science career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.

At $24,750 against $30,423/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #136 ranking among 146 Clinical Laboratory Science programs places Southwest University at El Paso in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The limited growth from $30,423 to $33,010 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.

The 15 apprenticeship pathways connected to Clinical Laboratory Science reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

41 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
37
Low End
41
Score
41
High End
Earnings $30,423/yr (-23% vs median)
AI-Proof Resilient (76% shielded)
Job Market Large (79,700 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$334K
2.1% annual growth
Earnings Multiple
10.4x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
6 of 6
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition
$32,000
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,750
9.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$33,010
9% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Clinical Laboratory Science graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620 +17.3% 52%
Surgical technologists $62,830 +4.5% 93%
Health technologists and technicians, all other $48,790 +5.2% 48%
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary
$105,620
+17.3% growth 52% AI-proof
Surgical technologists
$62,830
+4.5% growth 93% AI-proof
Health technologists and technicians, all other
$48,790
+5.2% growth 48% AI-proof

View all 6 career paths with full salary data →

Clinical Laboratory Science Career Guide

From day-one roles to senior positions, Clinical Laboratory Science careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering healthcare.

Read the full Clinical Laboratory Science career guide →

Compare & Explore

Clinical Laboratory Science Overview

Clinical Laboratory Science at Other Schools

Other Majors at Southwest University at El Paso

How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?

Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 41/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for Clinical Laboratory Science at Southwest University at El Paso?
This program scores 41/100 — on the lower end for Clinical Laboratory Science. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Is Southwest University at El Paso a good choice for Clinical Laboratory Science despite lower starting pay?
Lower starting pay at Southwest University at El Paso may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Can I learn Clinical Laboratory Science through an apprenticeship instead of Southwest University at El Paso?
The DOL recognizes 15 apprenticeship pathways related to Clinical Laboratory Science. For students weighing Southwest University at El Paso's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Will Clinical Laboratory Science graduates from Southwest University at El Paso find jobs?
Job availability for Clinical Laboratory Science is strong — 79,700 positions open annually across the mapped career paths. For Southwest University at El Paso graduates specifically, local market conditions in TX may shift the picture.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →