Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Fortis College-Baton Rouge

Fortis College-Baton Rouge's medical assisting program offers reasonable debt levels but earnings that trail national standards. With graduates earning $25,556 in their first year and carrying just $9,500 in debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 is manageable. However, these earnings fall in the 35th percentile nationally, meaning most similar programs elsewhere produce higher-earning graduates.

The Louisiana context tells a different story. Among the state's 36 medical assisting programs, Fortis ranks in the 60th percentile—a solid middle-tier position that beats the state median of $22,869. While top Louisiana programs like Delgado Community College ($29,905) significantly outperform Fortis, the gap isn't insurmountable. The 10% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates build valuable skills and experience in the field.

For families considering this program, the key tradeoff is clear: you're getting affordable training that performs decently within Louisiana but doesn't reach the earning potential of stronger national programs. Given that 88% of students receive Pell grants, this program serves its intended population of students seeking accessible healthcare career entry. If staying in Louisiana is the plan, Fortis provides a reasonable path into medical assisting, though exploring community college alternatives like Delgado might yield better long-term returns.