Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Fortis College-Richmond

Fortis College-Richmond's Allied Health program presents a puzzling contradiction: while graduates earn significantly less than the national average ($23,035 vs. $27,186), this program actually performs at the median for Virginia schools in this field. The earnings essentially plateau after graduation, with minimal growth over four years—a pattern that limits long-term earning potential in a healthcare field where experience typically brings better pay.

The debt situation is more encouraging. At $9,500, student borrowing matches both state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41. This means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off their loans without financial strain, especially important given that 71% of students receive Pell grants. The program serves a population that likely needs quick entry into stable employment rather than maximum earning potential.

For Virginia families seeking an affordable path into healthcare support roles, this program delivers predictable outcomes—modest but stable earnings with reasonable debt. However, parents should know that higher-paying options exist within the state, including ECPI University where graduates earn $6,400 more annually. This program works best for students prioritizing quick workforce entry and debt minimization over maximizing income potential.