Medical Assisting at Tidewater Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 11,797 in Norfolk, VA.
Program Analysis
Tidewater Community College's Medical Assisting program produces graduates earning $29,799/yr — within striking distance of the $31,622 national average for this trade.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 45.0x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Medical Assisting programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Medical Assisting's career paths, with 28% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 40% gap from the optimistic case.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $9,650 in median debt clears fast against $29,799 in annual earnings.
At #380 of 1,065 Medical Assisting programs, Tidewater Community College scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Five-year earnings of $52,318 show a 76% jump from the $29,799 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.
Medical Assisting offers 11 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
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 Tidewater Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.