Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services at Valley College-Cleveland

Valley College-Cleveland's allied health certificate produces graduates earning roughly $25,000 annually—about $2,000 below Ohio's median for this credential and $2,000 below the national median. More concerning, earnings actually decline slightly by year four rather than growing, suggesting limited career advancement opportunities. Among Ohio's 83 programs, this ranks in the 40th percentile, meaning most alternatives deliver better outcomes. The state's strongest programs, like Sinclair Community College, produce graduates earning $43,000—nearly double what Valley grads typically make.

The debt load of $9,500 isn't catastrophic, but it represents nearly 40% of first-year earnings, which can strain a budget when you're earning around $2,000 monthly. With 77% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are counting on this certificate to provide economic mobility that the data suggests may not materialize. A $25,000 salary in Cleveland leaves little room for both loan payments and living expenses.

For anxious parents, the key question is opportunity cost. Your child could attend Sinclair or several other Ohio programs with significantly stronger earnings outcomes for similar or lower debt. If Valley College is the only accessible option, understand this certificate provides entry-level medical office work, not a pathway to substantial wage growth. Better alternatives exist within Ohio.