Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Ross Medical Education Center-Cincinnati

Ross Medical Education Center's medical assisting program starts graduates at $26,624 but sees earnings drop to $24,537 by year four—a troubling 8% decline that goes against typical career progression. While the program ranks in the 60th percentile among Ohio's 83 medical assisting programs, that's still well below the state's top performers, with Sinclair Community College graduates earning nearly $20,000 more annually.

The $9,500 debt load is reasonable and matches both national and state medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36. However, the earnings decline means graduates are effectively taking a pay cut over time rather than building their careers. With 88% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a predominantly low-income population, making the stagnant earning potential particularly concerning for families counting on upward mobility.

For parents considering this investment, the numbers suggest looking elsewhere in Ohio first. Sinclair Community College offers the same credential with dramatically better earning potential, while several other Ohio schools provide meaningful salary premiums over Ross's declining trajectory. The program isn't a financial disaster, but it's far from maximizing your child's earning potential in this field.