Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Sumner College

First-year earnings of $37,349 place Sumner's medical assisting graduates well above the national typical outcome of $27,186, though debt figures here are estimated from similar Oregon programs rather than Sumner's actual numbers. At a projected $9,500 in borrowing, the debt load appears manageable—roughly three months of gross pay—putting this program in line with what's typical for these certificates nationally. The stronger-than-average earnings suggest Sumner's training translates reasonably well to the Portland healthcare job market.

The challenge is context. While Sumner graduates earn more than most medical assisting certificate holders nationwide, they're landing in the middle of Oregon's pack. Portland Community College graduates earn $45,994 their first year—about $8,600 more annually—and Central Oregon Community College also shows stronger outcomes. That earnings gap adds up quickly when both programs likely require similar time commitments and, based on peer programs, comparable debt loads.

For families weighing Sumner against these alternatives, the question is whether convenience or location makes the program worth potentially leaving $30,000+ on the table over four years compared to PCC. The 87% admission rate and solid earnings floor suggest Sumner provides accessible healthcare training that beats most national programs, but Oregon students have clearly stronger options if they can access them.