Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood delivers modest but stable outcomes for medical assisting, with graduates earning around $26,000 annually in a field known for limited income growth. While the program underperforms the national average by about $1,300, it actually ranks in the 60th percentile among Michigan programs—meaning it outperforms many in-state competitors despite the below-average absolute numbers.
The debt burden is reasonable at $9,500, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 that graduates can typically handle. However, the virtually flat earnings growth (+1% over four years) reflects the reality of this career path: you'll likely earn similar amounts whether you're newly graduated or experienced. The 83% Pell grant rate indicates this program serves primarily lower-income students seeking quick workforce entry.
The bigger concern is the competitive landscape within Michigan. Top performers like Montcalm Community College ($34,585) and Baker College ($32,846) deliver significantly higher earnings for the same credential and likely similar debt levels. While Ross-Kentwood isn't a financial disaster, your child would be better served exploring these higher-performing alternatives first. The program works as a backup option if other doors close, but shouldn't be the first choice given the available alternatives in Michigan.
Where Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood 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 Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood graduates compare to all programs nationally
Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood graduates earn $26k, placing them in the 38th 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 Michigan
Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services certificate's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (54 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood | $25,879 | $26,069 | $9,500 | 0.37 |
| Montcalm Community College | $34,585 | — | — | — |
| Baker College | $32,846 | — | $14,776 | 0.45 |
| Grand Rapids Community College | $32,171 | $33,449 | $7,210 | 0.22 |
| Muskegon Community College | $28,808 | — | $9,500 | 0.33 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Davison | $27,186 | $26,021 | $9,500 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $27,186 | — | $9,500 | 0.35 |
Other Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services Programs in Michigan
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montcalm Community College Sidney | $4,860 | $34,585 | — |
| Baker College Owosso | $12,810 | $32,846 | $14,776 |
| Grand Rapids Community College Grand Rapids | $4,059 | $32,171 | $7,210 |
| Muskegon Community College Muskegon | $6,990 | $28,808 | $9,500 |
| Ross Medical Education Center-Davison Davison | — | $27,186 | $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 Ross Medical Education Center-Kentwood, approximately 83% 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 701 graduates with reported earnings and 820 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.