Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Allied Health Careers Institute

Allied Health Careers Institute manages to keep costs remarkably low—just $6,544 in median debt—while delivering above-average results for Tennessee. At $26,245 in first-year earnings, graduates earn more than the state median of $24,696, ranking in the 60th percentile among Tennessee's 35 programs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 means students borrow less than three months' salary, which is manageable territory for a certificate program. With 71% of students receiving Pell grants, this school serves a predominantly lower-income population and appears to deliver on its promise of affordable workforce training.

The tradeoff is that earnings lag slightly behind the national median of $27,186. Programs like South College in Tennessee push closer to $29,000, suggesting there may be higher-ceiling options available. Still, the $2,000 gap isn't dramatic, and Allied Health Careers Institute's minimal debt burden means graduates take home more of what they earn—a meaningful advantage when starting salaries are in the mid-$20,000s.

For families prioritizing affordability and quick entry into healthcare work, this program hits its mark. The low debt load reduces financial risk considerably, and performing above the state median shows the training translates to competitive local outcomes. Students seeking the absolute highest earning potential might explore alternatives, but this represents a solid, low-cost pathway into medical assisting work.