Medical Assisting at Des Moines Area Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 10,406 in Ankeny, IA.
Program Analysis
Des Moines Area Community College's Medical Assisting graduates start at $38,511/yr — above the $31,622 national average, though not by a wide margin.
The 72.6x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 28% task exposure — and the 0% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Medical Assisting graduates.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $10,265 in median debt clears fast against $38,511 in annual earnings.
A #85 ranking out of 1,065 Medical Assisting programs nationally puts Des Moines Area Community College in the top 10% — a strong but not elite position.
With 11 registered apprenticeships mapped to Medical Assisting, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Medical Assisting graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health specialties teachers, postsecondary | $105,620 | +17.3% | 52% |
| Occupational therapy assistants | $68,340 | +19.2% | 73% |
| Physical therapist assistants | $65,510 | +22.0% | 85% |
Medical Assisting Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Medical Assisting careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering healthcare.
Compare & Explore
Medical Assisting Overview
Medical Assisting at Other Schools
Other Majors at Des Moines Area Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.