Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Fortis Institute-Pensacola
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
This Fortis Institute program presents concerning financial outcomes that warrant serious reconsideration. With median earnings of just $23,496 one year after graduation, graduates earn significantly less than both the national median ($27,186) and Florida median ($26,264) for allied health programs. More troubling is the negative earnings trajectory—graduates actually earn less four years post-graduation than they do initially, dropping to $22,618.
While the debt load of $9,500 appears manageable at first glance, it becomes problematic when paired with these low earnings. The debt-to-income ratio of 0.40 means graduates carry debt equivalent to nearly five months of their annual salary. When you compare this to top-performing Florida programs like Manatee Technical College, where graduates earn $35,907, the opportunity cost becomes stark—that's $12,000+ more annually for similar training.
The data is based on a robust sample of 100+ graduates, so these figures are reliable. Given that this program ranks in just the 18th percentile nationally and performs below average even within Florida, your child would likely achieve better financial outcomes at numerous other state institutions offering the same credential. The combination of below-average earnings and declining income trajectory makes this a risky investment, especially when stronger alternatives exist within the same state.
Where Fortis Institute-Pensacola 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 Institute-Pensacola graduates compare to all programs nationally
Fortis Institute-Pensacola graduates earn $23k, placing them in the 18th 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 Florida
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Florida (99 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fortis Institute-Pensacola | $23,496 | $22,618 | $9,500 | 0.40 |
| Manatee Technical College | $35,907 | — | — | — |
| Miami Dade College | $34,527 | $29,030 | $7,695 | 0.22 |
| Palm Beach State College | $33,935 | — | — | — |
| Lorenzo Walker Technical College | $33,354 | $30,757 | — | — |
| H W Brewster Technical College | $33,100 | — | — | — |
| National Median | $27,186 | — | $9,500 | 0.35 |
Other Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services Programs in Florida
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manatee Technical College Bradenton | — | $35,907 | — |
| Miami Dade College Miami | $2,838 | $34,527 | $7,695 |
| Palm Beach State College Lake Worth | $3,050 | $33,935 | — |
| Lorenzo Walker Technical College Naples | — | $33,354 | — |
| H W Brewster Technical College Tampa | — | $33,100 | — |
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 Institute-Pensacola, approximately 66% 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 556 graduates with reported earnings and 662 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.