Median Earnings (1yr)
$31,098
76th percentile (60th in CT)
Median Debt
$11,237
18% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.36
Manageable
Sample Size
710
Adequate data

Analysis

Lincoln Technical Institute-Shelton's Allied Health program delivers solid early earnings that significantly outpace national averages, with graduates earning $31,098 in their first year compared to the national median of $27,186. This places the program in the 76th percentile nationally—a strong showing that indicates quality training and job placement. However, within Connecticut's competitive medical assisting landscape, it performs at the median level, ranking in the 60th percentile among state programs.

The debt picture is particularly attractive, with graduates owing just $11,237—well below what many certificate programs charge and resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36. The concerning reality, though, is the complete lack of earnings growth: graduates earn virtually the same amount ($31,123) four years post-graduation as they do in year one. This "early peak" pattern suggests limited advancement opportunities within the field, which is typical for medical assisting roles that often require additional certification or education to progress.

For families seeking a quick entry into healthcare with minimal debt, this program offers good value with reliable starting wages. However, parents should understand they're investing in a stable but static career path. If your child values job security over income growth and wants to enter the workforce quickly, this represents a solid choice—just don't expect significant salary increases without further education or career pivots.

Where Lincoln Technical Institute-Shelton Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all allied health and medical assisting services certificate's programs nationally

Lincoln Technical Institute-SheltonOther allied health and medical assisting services programs

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 Lincoln Technical Institute-Shelton graduates compare to all programs nationally

Lincoln Technical Institute-Shelton graduates earn $31k, placing them in the 76th 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 Connecticut

Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (10 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Lincoln Technical Institute-Shelton$31,098$31,123$11,2370.36
Porter & Chester Institute of Hamden$34,069$31,872$9,5000.28
Porter & Chester Institute$33,052$32,588$9,5000.29
Lincoln Technical Institute-New Britain$31,098$31,123$11,2370.36
American Institute-West Hartford$24,139$26,393$12,1820.50
National Median$27,186—$9,5000.35

Other Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services Programs in Connecticut

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Porter & Chester Institute of Hamden
Hamden
$14,337$34,069$9,500
Porter & Chester Institute
Bridgeport
$14,349$33,052$9,500
Lincoln Technical Institute-New Britain
New Britain
—$31,098$11,237
American Institute-West Hartford
West Hartford
—$24,139$12,182

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 Lincoln Technical Institute-Shelton, approximately 56% 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 710 graduates with reported earnings and 809 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.