Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Delta College of Arts & Technology-Lafayette Campus

Delta College's Allied Health program shows why looking beyond national rankings matters—especially in Louisiana. While this program sits at just the 22nd percentile nationally, it actually performs above the state median, landing at the 60th percentile among Louisiana's 36 similar programs. For families in Lafayette, that context is critical: you're paying less in debt ($7,627 versus $9,506 statewide) to earn roughly what other Louisiana graduates in this field make. Two-thirds of students here receive Pell grants, suggesting the program serves working-class families looking for affordable healthcare credentials.

The concern is that earnings flatline completely—$23,994 at year one and essentially unchanged four years later—while stronger Louisiana programs like Delgado Community College ($29,905) show significantly higher earning potential. This isn't a failure, but it suggests this certificate opens doors to entry-level medical assisting roles without much advancement opportunity. The low debt load (just 32% of first-year earnings) means graduates aren't trapped, but they're also not on a growth trajectory.

For a student who needs to stay local and can't afford more expensive training, this program delivers an affordable entry point into healthcare work. But families should understand they're looking at stable $24,000 jobs, not a launching pad to higher earnings—and stronger options exist elsewhere in Louisiana if geography and cost allow.