Health and Medical Administrative Services at Ross Medical Education Center-Huntsville

Ross Medical Education Center's health administration certificate produces graduates earning about $25,000 initially—well below both the national median ($27,783) and what competing Alabama programs deliver. While that 25th percentile national ranking is concerning, the program actually performs closer to the state median, landing at the 40th percentile among Alabama's dozen offerings. The debt load of $9,500 is relatively modest, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, though it's worth noting graduates here still carry more debt than the typical certificate holder despite earning less.

The bigger issue is the limited income ceiling. Even after four years, median earnings only climb to $26,729—still trailing what most competing programs produce in year one. Herzing University-Birmingham graduates, for instance, start at $27,871. The program serves a predominantly low-income population (86% receive Pell grants), which makes the modest debt particularly important, but the earnings gap compounds over time.

For families counting on quick workforce entry with decent pay, this program underdelivers compared to Alabama alternatives. The debt won't be crushing, but your child will likely earn $2,000-3,000 less annually than peers who chose comparable certificates elsewhere in the state. If Ross is the only accessible option, the low debt keeps it viable—just set realistic expectations about starting salaries in the mid-twenties.