Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City
Johnson City, TN 37601-1526 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 65/100
Graduation Rate: 56.4%
Median Earnings (10yr): $33,079 | Median Debt: $9,500
Student Body Size: 87 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 69.0% | Federal Loan Rate: 63.6%
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
56.4% of students at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City complete their degree, 9% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.
Graduates of Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City earn a median salary of $33,079 ten years after enrollment, 19% below the national average.
The median student debt at graduation is $9,500, 56% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $103/month, with a total repayment of $12,360 (including $2,860 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.29x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Financial Aid Profile
69.0% of students at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 109% 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.
63.6% of students take federal loans, 35% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City enrolls 87 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 54/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.
Student body composition: White 67%, Hispanic 7%, Black 9%, Asian 0%.
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City: Small Private For-Profit Medical School with Low Debt but Lower Graduation and Earnings Rates
- Launch Your Healthcare Career in Johnson City: Ross Medical Education Center's Path to Employment
- Is Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City the Right Investment for Your Future Earnings?
- Beyond the Classroom: What Life and Career Opportunities Await Ross Medical Education Center Graduates?
Report Card: Overall Grade D+
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: C-
- Outcomes: D
College Analysis
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is a Private For-Profit institution in Johnson City, TN with approximately 87 students. Academics: Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City has a graduation rate of 56.44%, slightly below the national average for for-profit institutions. Value: Median student debt is $9,500, which is relatively low compared to other for-profit medical schools. Outcomes: Median earnings 10 years after graduation are $33,079, which is below the national average for medical school graduates. Peer comparison: Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City has a lower graduation rate and lower median earnings compared to larger, public medical schools.
The Verdict: Is Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City Worth It?
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City presents a mixed value proposition. With a median 10-year earning potential of $33,079 and a median debt of $9,500, the return on investment appears modest. The debt-to-earnings ratio suggests that graduates will need to allocate a significant portion of their early career earnings to repay their loans, potentially taking around 3-4 years to clear the debt if earnings remain at the median. The tuition costs are not provided, which makes a precise ROI calculation impossible, but the reported median earnings are on the lower end for allied health professions, especially when compared to national averages. The graduation rate of 56.4% also raises concerns about program completion and student success. While the school offers specialized training in high-demand healthcare fields, the relatively low median earnings and the lack of transparency in tuition and admission rates make it difficult to definitively label it a 'good deal.' It is not overpriced if tuition is very low, but it is unlikely to be a 'hidden gem' given the earnings data. A direct recommendation is challenging without knowing the tuition costs, but prospective students should carefully weigh the median earnings against the total cost of their education and consider the program's completion rates.
Return on Investment
Given the low student debt and high graduation rate, the degree from Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City may be worth the cost for students who prioritize these factors over higher earnings potential.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City: $9,500. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $108/month. Total repaid: $12,960 ($3,460 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 3.1 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $12,960.
Strengths
- Small student body
- Low student debt
- High graduation rate compared to some for-profits
Weaknesses
- Lower graduation rate compared to national average
- Lower median earnings 10 years after graduation
- No Asian students reported
Academic Profile
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is dedicated to providing specialized training for entry-level healthcare positions. Its academic strengths lie in its focused program offerings, designed for rapid entry into the workforce. Key programs include Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Practical Nursing, each structured to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge demanded by employers in the healthcare industry. Faculty quality, while not directly measurable by salary data, is expected to be high in practical, hands-on instruction, drawing from experienced professionals in the healthcare field. The student-faculty ratio, inferred from the small student body size, is likely very favorable, allowing for personalized attention and direct mentorship. Research opportunities are minimal, as the curriculum is primarily skills-based and career-focused rather than research-intensive. There are no formal honors programs or study abroad options, aligning with the school's mission of efficient and direct career preparation. Academic support resources are crucial for student success, and Ross typically offers tutoring, academic advising, and career services to help students navigate their demanding coursework and prepare for certification exams and job placement. The emphasis is on practical application and competency-based learning, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion.
Financial Aid Guide for Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City
Pell Grant recipients: 69.0%. Students taking federal loans: 63.6%.
Navigating financial aid at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City requires a clear understanding of its private, for-profit status. The majority of students rely on federal financial aid, including Pell Grants for eligible low-income students and federal student loans. Given the median debt of $9,500, it's evident that federal loans are a primary source of funding. Merit-based aid is not a significant component at Ross; the focus is on need-based aid and federal loan eligibility. For students from lower-income households (e.g., under $30,000 annual income), a substantial portion of tuition and living expenses could be covered by Pell Grants and federal loans, potentially minimizing out-of-pocket costs. For middle-income families (e.g., $50,000-$75,000 annual income), federal loans will likely cover most of the costs, with some potential for institutional payment plans. Work-study opportunities may be available but are often limited and competitive, typically involving on-campus administrative roles. Scholarship tips would focus on external scholarships from healthcare organizations or community foundations, as institutional scholarships are rare. Negotiating aid is generally not realistic at Ross; the financial aid office primarily assists students in maximizing their eligibility for federal and state aid programs. It's crucial for prospective students to complete the FAFSA early and work closely with the financial aid office to understand their specific loan eligibility and repayment obligations.
Hidden Costs at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City
- Textbooks and required course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per year, depending on the program.
- Uniforms and professional attire for clinical rotations can cost between $200 and $500.
- Program-specific lab fees and supplies may add $300 to $700 annually.
- Background checks and drug screenings for clinical placements can cost $100 to $200.
- Licensure or certification exam fees, required for graduation and employment, typically range from $150 to $400.
- Transportation to and from campus and clinical sites can be a significant expense, especially if public transport is limited, potentially costing $50-$150 per month.
- Student services fees, often not fully detailed upfront, can add $100-$300 per term.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City, a private for-profit institution with a small student body of 87, focuses on allied health professions. While specific data on major employers that recruit directly from this campus is limited, graduates typically enter the healthcare sector. Common industries include hospitals, physician offices, diagnostic laboratories, and outpatient care centers. Given the program's nature, alumni often find roles as medical assistants, medical administrative assistants, and other support staff within healthcare facilities. Major healthcare systems in the broader East Tennessee region, such as Ballad Health (which operates multiple hospitals including Johnson City Medical Center), Mountain States Health Alliance, and smaller private practices, are likely employers. Direct graduate school placement rates are not readily available, suggesting most graduates enter the workforce immediately. There is no public information on notable alumni. Career services at for-profit institutions often emphasize job placement assistance, which may include resume building, interview preparation, and connecting students with local employers. Internship pipelines are crucial for these programs, with students likely completing clinical externships at various healthcare sites within the Johnson City area to gain practical experience. Geographic hiring patterns tend to be localized, with graduates seeking employment within a reasonable commuting distance of Johnson City, given the regional focus of the healthcare systems and the nature of entry-level allied health roles.
Campus Life & Culture at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City
The student body at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is comprised of individuals highly motivated to enter specific healthcare roles, often seeking a quicker path to employment than a traditional four-year degree. The student population is likely diverse in age and background, united by a common goal of career advancement in the medical field. Students who thrive here are typically self-disciplined, career-focused, and appreciate a structured, practical learning environment.
Ross Medical Education Center in Johnson City, TN, offers a focused and career-oriented campus environment. As a specialized institution, the student experience is largely centered around the rigorous academic programs and the preparation for healthcare careers. With a small student body of around 87, the campus fosters a close-knit community where students often know each other across different programs. Social life tends to be less about large-scale events and more about shared experiences within study groups and program cohorts. Students often connect through shared academic challenges and future career aspirations. While there isn't a traditional residential campus with dorms, many students relocate to Johnson City specifically for their studies, forming a community in local apartments and shared housing. Dining options are typically off-campus, with students frequenting local eateries and preparing meals in their own accommodations. Student organizations are likely program-specific, focusing on professional development within fields like medical assisting, dental assisting, or practical nursing. There are no formal Greek life or intercollegiate athletics, as the focus is squarely on academic achievement and career readiness. The 'vibe' is one of intense focus, mutual support among peers facing similar demanding coursework, and a strong sense of purpose driven by the desire to enter the healthcare workforce quickly and competently. The Johnson City location offers access to a mid-sized city with a growing healthcare sector, providing opportunities for clinical externships and future employment.
Campus Highlights
- Focused, career-specific programs designed for rapid workforce entry.
- Small class sizes and a close-knit student community.
- Emphasis on practical, hands-on skills training.
- Direct pathway to in-demand healthcare professions.
- Supportive environment geared towards certification and job placement.
- Affiliation with a growing healthcare sector in the Johnson City region.
- Affordable median debt, indicating a manageable financial commitment.
Location & Regional Advantages
Johnson City, Tennessee, offers a modest but stable environment for allied health graduates. The local job market is significantly influenced by the healthcare sector, with Ballad Health being the dominant employer in the region. This provides a consistent, albeit potentially competitive, landscape for graduates seeking entry-level positions. The cost of living in Johnson City is notably lower than the national average, making the median debt of $9,500 relatively manageable. While Johnson City is not a major metropolitan hub, it benefits from its proximity to larger cities like Asheville, North Carolina (about 1.5 hours away) and Knoxville, Tennessee (about 2 hours away), which offer broader career opportunities and access to larger healthcare networks. The quality of life in the Tri-Cities area (Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol) is characterized by a strong sense of community, access to outdoor recreation in the Appalachian Mountains, and a generally safe environment. The weather is temperate, with four distinct seasons. This location can be advantageous for students seeking a more affordable lifestyle and a close-knit community, but it may limit exposure to a wide array of cutting-edge healthcare facilities or specialized medical research institutions found in larger urban centers.
How to Get Into Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City
Gaining admission to Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is generally straightforward, as the institution's mission is to provide accessible career training. The admissions process is less about selectivity and more about ensuring candidates meet basic prerequisites and are committed to a healthcare career. There are no Early Decision or Early Action advantages, as the focus is on enrollment capacity rather than competitive admissions. The admissions office values a clear understanding of the chosen program, a genuine interest in the healthcare field, and the ability to meet program-specific academic requirements, which may include a high school diploma or GED. GPA and test score ranges are not heavily emphasized or published; instead, entrance exams may be used to assess foundational skills. Essay topics that work well would focus on personal motivation for pursuing a healthcare career, relevant experiences (even volunteer or observational), and future aspirations. Demonstrated interest is shown through active engagement with the admissions team, attending information sessions, and completing the application process promptly. The timeline recommendation is to apply as early as possible before the desired start date, as programs often have rolling admissions and fill on a first-come, first-served basis.
How Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Fortis Institute-Cookeville, Remington College-Memphis, Southwest Tennessee Community College (for related health programs)
Advantages
- Focus on specific, in-demand allied health roles.
- Potentially smaller class sizes due to low student enrollment, allowing for more individualized attention.
- Lower cost of living in Johnson City compared to larger metropolitan areas where some competitors might be located.
Disadvantages
- Lower median earnings compared to graduates from similar programs at community colleges or larger technical institutes.
- Limited transparency regarding admission rates and tuition costs.
- Lower graduation rate compared to many public institutions.
Best For
- Students seeking a large, public medical school with higher graduation rates and better job placement opportunities
- Students looking for a high percentage of Asian representation in their peer group
Avoid If
- Students prioritizing high earnings potential and job placement rates over lower debt
- Students seeking a larger, more diverse student body
Frequently Asked Questions about Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City
How much does it cost to attend Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City?
In-state tuition at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is N/A per year, and out-of-state tuition is N/A per year. The median student debt at graduation is $9,500.
What is the graduation rate at Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City?
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City has a graduation rate of 56.4%.
How much do Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City graduates earn?
The median earnings for Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City graduates 10 years after enrollment is $33,079. With median debt of $9,500, graduates earn roughly 3.5x their debt level annually.
How big is Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City?
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City has approximately 87 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Johnson City, TN and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Where is Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City located?
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is located in Johnson City, TN. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 87 students.
How much student debt do Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City graduates have?
The median student debt for Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City graduates is $9,500. With median earnings of $33,079 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 29%.
Is Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City a good college?
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City has a graduation rate of 56.4% and median post-graduation earnings of $33,079. Small student body of 87 students
How does Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City compare to similar colleges?
High percentage of white students (66.67%) While Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City has low student debt, its lower graduation rate and median earnings suggest it may not be the best value compared to larger, public medical schools.
What career prospects do Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City graduates have?
Graduates of Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City may find employment opportunities in smaller medical practices or rural areas, given the lower earnings potential.
What should prospective students know about Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City?
Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City is positioned in a niche market for small, private for-profit medical schools, catering to a specific subset of students.
What makes Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City stand out?
No Asian students reported
What are the pros and cons of attending Ross Medical Education Center-Johnson City?
Low graduation rate compared to national average
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- Fortis Institute-Cookeville
- Remington College-Memphis
- Southwest Tennessee Community College (for related health programs)
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View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.