Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
This Miller-Motte program presents significant value concerns that warrant serious consideration before enrollment. While the debt load of $16,500 is relatively manageable compared to many programs, the earning potential is deeply problematic. Graduates earn just $22,869 in their first year—well below both the national median ($27,186) and Tennessee median ($24,696) for similar programs, ranking in only the 13th percentile nationally.
Even within Tennessee's competitive landscape, this program underperforms, sitting at just the 40th percentile among state programs. Top Tennessee schools like South College ($28,606) and Ross Medical Education Centers ($26,000+) consistently produce graduates earning $3,000-6,000 more annually. Perhaps most concerning is the complete lack of earnings growth—graduates make virtually the same amount four years later, suggesting limited career advancement opportunities.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 isn't catastrophic, but when combined with below-average starting salaries and zero growth trajectory, it creates a challenging financial picture. With 85% of students receiving Pell grants, many families are already financially stressed and need programs that deliver strong returns. For the investment required, your child would likely find better outcomes at several other Tennessee institutions offering the same credential with significantly higher earning potential.
Where Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga 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 Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga graduates compare to all programs nationally
Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga graduates earn $23k, placing them in the 13th 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 Tennessee
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (35 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga | $22,869 | $22,935 | $16,500 | 0.72 |
| South College | $28,606 | — | $12,075 | 0.42 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City | $26,624 | $24,537 | $9,500 | 0.36 |
| Allied Health Careers Institute | $26,245 | — | $6,544 | 0.25 |
| Fortis Institute-Cookeville | $25,883 | $25,030 | $9,500 | 0.37 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Knoxville | $25,879 | $26,069 | $9,500 | 0.37 |
| National Median | $27,186 | — | $9,500 | 0.35 |
Other Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services Programs in Tennessee
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Tennessee schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| South College Knoxville | $17,935 | $28,606 | $12,075 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City Johnson City | — | $26,624 | $9,500 |
| Allied Health Careers Institute Murfreesboro | — | $26,245 | $6,544 |
| Fortis Institute-Cookeville Cookeville | $14,644 | $25,883 | $9,500 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Knoxville Knoxville | — | $25,879 | $9,500 |
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 Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga, approximately 85% 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 2008 graduates with reported earnings and 2101 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.