Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Chippewa Valley Technical College

Chippewa Valley Technical College's medical assisting program earns graduates $36,033 in their first year—substantially above the national median of $27,186 and in the 95th percentile nationally. That's impressive reach, but Wisconsin context tells a more nuanced story: this ranks in the 60th percentile statewide, where several technical colleges are achieving similar or slightly better outcomes. The $14,396 in typical debt is higher than most Wisconsin competitors and above the state median, though the 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable.

The earnings trajectory is worth noting: graduates actually earn slightly less four years out ($34,768) than in their first year. This isn't unusual in medical assisting, where earnings tend to plateau quickly, but it means the financial return comes primarily from getting to work immediately after completion—not from long-term wage growth.

For Wisconsin families, this program delivers solid results but at a premium price point compared to nearby alternatives. Schools like Blackhawk and Western Technical College are placing graduates into slightly higher-earning positions with less debt. If Chippewa Valley is the most convenient option geographically, the outcomes justify the investment. But if you're comparing Wisconsin technical colleges, it's worth evaluating whether the extra debt—about $3,200 more than the state median—is offset by location advantages or program features.