Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Milan Institute-Merced

Medical assisting programs typically lead to modest but steady earnings, and Milan Institute-Merced's certificate falls squarely in that category—though toward the lower end. At $24,563 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $2,300 below the California median and roughly $2,600 below the national average. Among the state's 185 programs, this ranks at the 40th percentile, meaning three-fifths of California programs produce higher earners. The gap is significant when you consider that top California programs like Empire College and Bay Area Medical Academy produce graduates earning $38,000-$41,000—roughly 60% more.

The debt picture offers some relief: at $9,235, the loan burden is manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38. Most graduates should be able to handle these payments on a medical assistant's salary. The program serves a predominantly low-income student population (65% receive Pell grants), and earnings do grow 8% by year four, reaching $26,477. However, that still leaves graduates below where peers from other California programs start.

For a family considering this program, the question is whether the convenience or location justifies the earnings gap. Medical assistants can find work throughout California, and Merced-based students might find better value at nearby community colleges or higher-performing certificate programs, even if it means commuting. The debt won't crush your child, but the earnings lag could add up to $50,000+ less over a four-year career compared to stronger alternatives.