Dental Support Services and Allied Professions at Fortis College

Fortis College's dental support program produces graduates earning about $22,800 in their first year—roughly $2,400 below the national median for similar programs, though closer to Alabama's state median of $23,194. At the 40th percentile statewide, this means more than half of Alabama's dental support programs deliver stronger earnings outcomes, including Fortis Institute-Birmingham which nearly doubles these first-year results at $31,554.

The positive news is manageable debt. At $12,330, graduates owe about half their first-year earnings—a reasonable ratio in absolute terms, though other dental support programs nationally typically carry even less debt. With 79% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves predominantly low-income students who may have limited alternatives, making debt manageability particularly important. Earnings do grow modestly to nearly $25,000 by year four, suggesting some career progression.

For families considering this program, the key question is location and alternatives. If your child can access one of Alabama's higher-performing dental support programs—particularly in Birmingham where earnings run $9,000 higher annually—that represents an extra $36,000 over four years for roughly similar training. If Fortis College-Mobile is the most accessible option, the debt load won't be crushing, but understand you're paying tuition for below-average outcomes in a field where better programs exist within the same state.