Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Surry Community College

Similar allied health programs across North Carolina typically launch graduates into the mid-$30,000s in their first year, suggesting Surry's program aligns with state norms. With estimated debt around $18,700—below both state and national benchmarks—the financial foundation appears manageable. However, the actual reported earnings four years out tell a different story: $27,081 represents a significant decline rather than the steady growth you'd expect as medical assistants gain experience and certifications.

That backward trajectory is the real concern here. While the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 looks reasonable on paper based on first-year estimates, it's the four-year number that matters for loan repayment. At $27,000 annually, graduates would be stretching to manage nearly $19,000 in debt while covering basic living expenses. Top-performing programs in the state like Martin Community College and Southwestern Community College are producing graduates earning $42,000-plus, demonstrating what's possible within North Carolina's allied health market.

Before committing, investigate why earnings might drop after graduation. Are graduates moving into lower-paying support roles? Is the local job market limiting opportunities? The debt level is conservative, but only if your child can maintain or grow their income—and this program's track record suggests that's far from guaranteed.