Fortis College-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN 46268 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 55/100 | ROI Score: -42 | Affordability Score: 75/100
Tuition (In-State): $15,072 | Out-of-State: $15,072
Graduation Rate: 37.0%
Median Earnings (10yr): $34,726 | Median Debt: $13,000
Student Body Size: 322 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 79.4% | Federal Loan Rate: 73.8%
Average Faculty Salary: $6,129/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Fortis College-Indianapolis is $15,072 per year, which is 62% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $15,072/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $60,288 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Fortis College-Indianapolis:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $27,497/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $22,605/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $28,688/year
- Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $35,300/year
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
37.0% of students at Fortis College-Indianapolis complete their degree, 40% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.
Graduates of Fortis College-Indianapolis earn a median salary of $34,726 ten years after enrollment, 15% below the national average.
The median student debt at graduation is $13,000, 40% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $141/month, with a total repayment of $16,920 (including $3,920 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.37x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Financial Aid Profile
79.4% of students at Fortis College-Indianapolis receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 141% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.
73.8% of students take federal loans, 57% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Average faculty salary: $6,129/month, 30% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Fortis College-Indianapolis enrolls 322 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 40/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.
Student body composition: White 12%, Hispanic 3%, Black 77%, Asian 2%.
Fortis College-Indianapolis: Low Median Debt but Negative ROI
- Fortis College-Indianapolis: A Focused Path to Healthcare Careers, But Weigh the Investment
- Graduation Outcomes at Fortis College-Indianapolis: Understanding Your Earning Potential
- Is Fortis College-Indianapolis the Right Fit for Your Career Goals and Budget?
Report Card: Overall Grade C-
Fortis College-Indianapolis receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D
- Value: F
- Outcomes: D
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Fortis College-Indianapolis is a Private For-Profit institution in Indianapolis, IN with approximately 322 students. Academics: Fortis College-Indianapolis has a graduation rate of 36.99%, indicating room for improvement in student success. Value: The median debt of $13,000 is relatively low compared to tuition, but the ROI score is negative, suggesting the degree may not be worth the cost. Outcomes: Graduates earn a median salary of $34,726 after 10 years, which is below the national average for similar institutions.
The Verdict: Is Fortis College-Indianapolis Worth It?
Fortis College-Indianapolis presents a challenging value proposition. With a median 10-year earning potential of $34,726 and a median debt of $13,000, the return on investment appears strained. The cost of tuition, at $15,072 annually, means that a typical two-year program could cost upwards of $30,000, significantly exceeding the median debt figure and potentially leading to a substantial financial burden relative to earning potential. The debt payoff timeline, based on median earnings, could extend to several years, especially when considering living expenses. The ROI score of -42 further underscores concerns about the financial viability of a degree from this institution. While the school aims to provide career-focused education, the reported earnings suggest that graduates may struggle to recoup their investment quickly. It is not a good deal, and prospective students should carefully weigh the costs against the likely post-graduation income and explore all available financial aid options and alternative institutions.
Return on Investment
The degree from Fortis College-Indianapolis may not be worth the cost, given the negative ROI score and low graduation rate.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Fortis College-Indianapolis: $13,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $148/month. Total repaid: $17,760 ($4,760 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 2.8 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $17,760.
Strengths
- Low tuition and median debt
- High proportion of Black students
Weaknesses
- Negative ROI score
- Low graduation rate
Academic Profile
Fortis College-Indianapolis is dedicated to providing specialized training in healthcare and technology fields, with its academic strengths concentrated in these areas. Key programs often include Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Information Technology, designed to equip students with practical, in-demand skills. The faculty comprises industry professionals who bring real-world experience into the classroom, offering students insights beyond theoretical knowledge. While specific faculty salary data isn't available, the for-profit model typically emphasizes hiring experienced practitioners. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly provided, is likely to be relatively low given the small student population of 322, allowing for more personalized attention. Fortis College-Indianapolis does not typically offer traditional research opportunities or extensive study abroad programs, as its curriculum is heavily focused on direct vocational training and immediate job placement. Academic support is a crucial component, with resources likely including tutoring services, academic advising, and career services to help students navigate their coursework and prepare for licensure exams and job searches. The emphasis is on a curriculum that is current, relevant, and directly applicable to the demands of the chosen profession.
Financial Aid Guide for Fortis College-Indianapolis
Pell Grant recipients: 79.4%. Students taking federal loans: 73.8%.
Navigating financial aid at Fortis College-Indianapolis requires a clear understanding of its for-profit status and the types of aid typically available. As a private for-profit institution, Fortis College-Indianapolis primarily relies on federal student aid programs. This includes Federal Pell Grants for students demonstrating significant financial need, and federal student loans (Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans) for students who qualify. The median debt for graduates is $13,000, suggesting that many students utilize federal loan programs to finance their education. Merit-based scholarships are less common at for-profit colleges compared to traditional universities; the focus is more on need-based aid and federal loan eligibility. Work-study opportunities may be available, providing students with part-time employment to help cover educational expenses. For students with an annual family income below $30,000, a significant portion of their tuition, which is $15,072 annually, could potentially be covered by Pell Grants and federal loans. For those with higher incomes, federal loans will likely form the bulk of their aid package. It is generally not realistic to negotiate financial aid packages at for-profit institutions like Fortis College-Indianapolis, as their aid structures are largely standardized based on federal regulations and program costs. Prospective students should work closely with the financial aid office to understand their specific eligibility for grants, loans, and any institutional aid that might be offered.
Hidden Costs at Fortis College-Indianapolis
- Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the program's specific requirements.
- Transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, or public transit passes, could add $500 to $1,200 annually for commuting students.
- Parking permits, if required for on-campus parking, might cost between $100 and $300 per year.
- Supplies specific to healthcare programs, such as scrubs, stethoscopes, or diagnostic tools, could total $200 to $500.
- Technology fees or costs for required software and hardware not included in tuition may add $100 to $400.
- Student activity fees, though often modest, can amount to $50 to $150 per year.
- Potential costs for background checks or drug screenings, often required for clinical rotations, could be $50 to $100.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Fortis College-Indianapolis, a private for-profit institution, primarily serves students seeking career-focused education in healthcare and related fields. Given its size and focus, specific data on major employers actively recruiting from campus, extensive internship pipelines, or a broad range of notable alumni is limited. However, graduates typically enter the healthcare sector, with common employers in the Indianapolis area including major hospital systems like Indiana University Health, Ascension St. Vincent, and Community Health Network. Other potential employers include smaller clinics, long-term care facilities, and diagnostic centers within the greater Indianapolis metropolitan area. The industries where alumni cluster are predominantly direct patient care roles, medical assisting, and administrative support within healthcare settings. Graduate school placement rates are not prominently published, suggesting that the primary career path for most graduates involves entering the workforce directly after obtaining their certificate or degree. Career services at for-profit institutions like Fortis often focus on job placement assistance, resume building, and interview preparation, aiming to connect graduates with local healthcare employers. Internship opportunities are likely integrated into the curriculum, providing hands-on experience within healthcare facilities in Indianapolis. Geographic hiring patterns for Fortis-Indianapolis graduates are heavily concentrated within a 50-mile radius of Indianapolis, reflecting the local demand for healthcare professionals and the school's regional focus.
Campus Life & Culture at Fortis College-Indianapolis
The student body at Fortis College-Indianapolis is diverse, attracting individuals seeking to advance their careers or enter new vocational fields, primarily from the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Students who thrive here are typically motivated, goal-oriented individuals who value practical training and are eager to enter the workforce quickly after graduation.
Fortis College-Indianapolis, a private for-profit institution, cultivates a focused and career-oriented campus environment. With a student body of 322, the atmosphere is intimate, fostering close-knit relationships among students and faculty. The campus culture is driven by the pursuit of specific vocational and technical skills, meaning social life often revolves around shared academic goals and extracurricular activities directly related to career preparation. While traditional large-scale social events might be less prevalent than at a larger university, students often connect through program-specific clubs or student government. The college doesn't offer on-campus housing, so students typically commute from surrounding Indianapolis neighborhoods. This means the 'campus vibe' is largely shaped by the daytime student population and their engagement during class hours and scheduled activities. Dining options are limited to what's available in the immediate vicinity of the campus, encouraging students to utilize local eateries or bring their own meals. Athletics are not a significant feature of Fortis College-Indianapolis, aligning with its mission to prioritize academic and professional development. The student organizations that do exist are usually geared towards professional development, such as student chapters of industry associations or groups focused on specific healthcare or technology fields. The overall feeling is one of purposeful engagement, where students are here to gain the skills and credentials needed for immediate entry into the workforce.
Campus Highlights
- Career-focused curriculum designed for immediate job placement.
- Small class sizes fostering personalized attention.
- Faculty comprised of industry professionals with real-world experience.
- Emphasis on practical, hands-on training in healthcare and technology fields.
- Dedicated career services to assist with job searching and placement.
- Programs often lead to industry-recognized certifications and licensure.
- Flexible scheduling options to accommodate working students.
Location & Regional Advantages
Fortis College-Indianapolis is strategically located in Indianapolis, Indiana, offering graduates a strong connection to a robust regional job market, particularly within the healthcare industry. Indianapolis boasts a significant presence of major healthcare systems, including Indiana University Health, Ascension St. Vincent, and Community Health Network, which are consistent employers of allied health professionals. The cost of living in Indianapolis is generally lower than the national average, making the median debt of $13,000 more manageable for graduates. Proximity to these healthcare hubs provides a direct pipeline for internships and post-graduation employment. While Indianapolis may not be a primary hub for cutting-edge tech or finance, its established healthcare sector offers stable career opportunities. The quality of life in Indianapolis is characterized by a growing urban center with a variety of cultural attractions, a relatively affordable housing market, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The weather is typical of the Midwest, with four distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm, humid summers. Safety can vary by neighborhood, as in any large city, but overall, Indianapolis offers a safe environment for students and graduates. The location's primary advantage for Fortis graduates lies in its direct access to a concentrated demand for healthcare professionals, facilitating easier entry into the local workforce.
How to Get Into Fortis College-Indianapolis
Gaining admission to Fortis College-Indianapolis is generally a straightforward process, as the institution prioritizes access to career-focused education. The admissions office typically looks for candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in pursuing a specific career path within healthcare or technology and possess the foundational skills to succeed in their chosen program. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not published, a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite. The admissions process often involves an interview with an admissions representative to assess your motivations and suitability for the program. Essays are usually not a significant component, but a personal statement might be requested to elaborate on career aspirations. Demonstrated interest is important, so actively engaging with the admissions team, attending information sessions, and asking thoughtful questions will be beneficial. There are no Early Decision or Early Action advantages as the admissions process is generally rolling. The timeline recommendation is to apply well in advance of the program start date to allow ample time for financial aid processing and enrollment steps. Focus on articulating your career goals clearly and showing your commitment to completing the program.
How Fortis College-Indianapolis Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana, Vincennes University, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)
Advantages
- More specialized, career-focused programs in allied health fields.
- Potentially smaller class sizes allowing for more individualized attention.
- Stronger emphasis on direct job placement assistance within specific healthcare roles.
Disadvantages
- Higher tuition costs compared to public community colleges and universities.
- Lower overall graduation rates and potentially less robust academic reputation.
- Limited range of academic programs and fewer transfer options to four-year institutions.
Best For
- Prospective students interested in healthcare support roles
- Individuals seeking a low-debt education
Avoid If
- Students looking for high graduation rates and strong ROI should consider other options
- Individuals seeking high median earnings after graduation may want to explore other institutions
Frequently Asked Questions about Fortis College-Indianapolis
How much does it cost to attend Fortis College-Indianapolis?
In-state tuition at Fortis College-Indianapolis is $15,072 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $15,072 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $13,000.
What is the graduation rate at Fortis College-Indianapolis?
Fortis College-Indianapolis has a graduation rate of 37.0%.
How much do Fortis College-Indianapolis graduates earn?
The median earnings for Fortis College-Indianapolis graduates 10 years after enrollment is $34,726. With median debt of $13,000, graduates earn roughly 2.7x their debt level annually.
How big is Fortis College-Indianapolis?
Fortis College-Indianapolis has approximately 322 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Indianapolis, IN and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Is Fortis College-Indianapolis worth the cost?
Fortis College-Indianapolis has an ROI score of -42 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $15,072 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $34,726, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Fortis College-Indianapolis located?
Fortis College-Indianapolis is located in Indianapolis, IN. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 322 students.
How much student debt do Fortis College-Indianapolis graduates have?
The median student debt for Fortis College-Indianapolis graduates is $13,000. With median earnings of $34,726 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 37%.
Is Fortis College-Indianapolis a good college?
Fortis College-Indianapolis has a graduation rate of 37.0% and median post-graduation earnings of $34,726. High proportion of Black students (76.71%)
How does Fortis College-Indianapolis compare to similar colleges?
Low graduation rate (36.99%) Compared to peer institutions, Fortis College-Indianapolis has a lower graduation rate and negative ROI, but lower median debt.
What career prospects do Fortis College-Indianapolis graduates have?
Graduates of Fortis College-Indianapolis may find employment in healthcare support roles, but career advancement may be limited.
What should prospective students know about Fortis College-Indianapolis?
Fortis College-Indianapolis is positioned in a competitive market with other for-profit institutions, offering programs primarily in healthcare fields.
What makes Fortis College-Indianapolis stand out?
Negative ROI score (-42)
What are the pros and cons of attending Fortis College-Indianapolis?
Median earnings of $34,726 after 10 years
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- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)
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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.