Medical Assisting at North Iowa Area Community College
with a smaller student body of 1,271 in Mason City, IA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $44,455 put North Iowa Area Community College's Medical Assisting program 41% above the national median of $31,622 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
The 39.3x 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 8% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Medical Assisting graduates.
With first-year pay of $44,455 far exceeding the $12,000 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #205 out of 1,065 programs, North Iowa Area Community College's Medical Assisting program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $44,455 to $49,875 over five years (12% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
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 North Iowa Area Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.