Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Fortis College-Dothan
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Fortis College-Dothan's medical assisting program produces graduates who earn significantly less than their peers nationwide, landing in just the 14th percentile for earnings among similar programs. With first-year earnings of $23,035—about $4,000 below the national median—students face a challenging financial outlook that barely improves over time.
Within Alabama, the picture is somewhat better but still concerning. The program ranks at the 40th percentile statewide, with graduates earning roughly $1,000 less than the state median of $24,037. When you consider that stronger Alabama programs like Herzing University-Birmingham produce graduates earning $30,106, the opportunity cost becomes clear. The debt burden of $9,500 isn't excessive, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41, but the low earning potential limits financial mobility.
The program serves a predominantly low-income student population, with 82% receiving Pell grants, which speaks to its accessibility. However, the minimal earnings growth over four years (+2%) suggests graduates may struggle to advance financially in their careers. For families prioritizing immediate employment over earning potential, this program provides quick workforce entry, but parents should understand their child will likely earn substantially less than graduates from stronger medical assisting programs both in Alabama and nationwide.
Where Fortis College-Dothan Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all allied health and medical assisting services certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Fortis College-Dothan graduates compare to all programs nationally
Fortis College-Dothan graduates earn $23k, placing them in the 14th percentile of all allied health and medical assisting services certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (17 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fortis College-Dothan | $23,035 | $23,410 | $9,500 | 0.41 |
| Herzing University-Birmingham | $30,106 | $29,950 | $24,721 | 0.82 |
| Fortis Institute-Birmingham | $25,556 | $28,041 | $9,500 | 0.37 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Huntsville | $24,905 | $25,038 | $9,500 | 0.38 |
| Remington College-Mobile Campus | $24,037 | $26,469 | $14,120 | 0.59 |
| Fortis College | $23,496 | $22,618 | $9,500 | 0.40 |
| National Median | $27,186 | — | $9,500 | 0.35 |
Other Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services Programs in Alabama
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Alabama schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herzing University-Birmingham Birmingham | $13,420 | $30,106 | $24,721 |
| Fortis Institute-Birmingham Birmingham | $14,561 | $25,556 | $9,500 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Huntsville Huntsville | — | $24,905 | $9,500 |
| Remington College-Mobile Campus Mobile | $20,476 | $24,037 | $14,120 |
| Fortis College Mobile | — | $23,496 | $9,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Fortis College-Dothan, approximately 82% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 410 graduates with reported earnings and 491 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.