About Fortis College-Richmond
Students face significant financial challenges here. The average net price reaches $19,803 annually, but graduates earn a median of $32,754 ten years after starting. Most students borrow money, with typical debt loads of $9,500 and monthly payments around $101. The employment rate hits 94.2%, showing that graduates find work quickly. However, only 24% of borrowers are successfully paying down their loans, suggesting many struggle with repayment relative to their earnings.
The student body reflects Richmond's demographics, with 77% of students identifying as Black and 62% as women. Nearly 71% receive Pell Grants, indicating most come from low-income families. The 21:1 student-faculty ratio means larger class sizes than typical. With a 37% six-year graduation rate, completing a program here requires persistence and focus on career goals.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 21:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 32.4%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 37.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $32,754
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $19,120 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Certificate | $18,498 |
Campus Life
Richmond's humid subtropical climate requires both winter coats for January lows around 30°F and plenty of sunscreen for summer highs reaching the upper 80s. The city offers internship opportunities at major employers like Capital One and VCU Health. Students spend weekends working part-time jobs or studying, as 76.69% are Black students often balancing family responsibilities with career preparation. The 94.2% employment rate reflects the school's job-focused mission. With 70.64% receiving Pell Grants and monthly loan payments averaging just $101, students here prioritize practical skills over campus traditions. Classes follow an accelerated "Other" calendar system designed to get graduates into the workforce quickly rather than following traditional semesters.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Calendar System
- Other
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 27°–47°F
- July Avg
- 67°–88°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 45.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- 8.8"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 38.4%
- Women
- 61.7%
- White
- 9.3%
- Black
- 76.7%
- Hispanic
- 3.5%
- Asian
- 2.5%
- In-State Students
- 97.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 70.6%
Location
- Address
- Richmond, Virginia 23230
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $32,754
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $29,754
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $18,400
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 23.8%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $101/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $9,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Fortis College-Richmond?
Fortis College-Richmond operates as an open-enrollment career college, meaning they accept most students who apply and meet basic requirements. With 399 students enrolled and a focus on career training programs, the school prioritizes helping students enter specific professional fields quickly. Nearly 98% of students come from Virginia, reflecting the school's role as a local workforce development institution.
How much does Fortis College-Richmond cost after financial aid?
Students at Fortis College-Richmond pay an average net price of $19,803 per year after financial aid. Over 70% of students receive financial assistance, with many qualifying for Pell Grants due to lower family incomes. Graduates typically leave with $9,500 in debt and monthly loan payments of $101.
What academic programs is Fortis College-Richmond known for?
Fortis College-Richmond specializes in career-focused programs designed for quick entry into the workforce. With a 21:1 student-faculty ratio, the school offers hands-on training in healthcare, business, and technical fields. The college operates on a flexible calendar system that allows students to start programs at various times throughout the year.
What are the job prospects for Fortis College-Richmond graduates?
Fortis College-Richmond boasts a 94.2% employment rate, though the loan repayment rate of 23.82% suggests many graduates struggle financially. Median earnings start at $27,217 one year after graduation and reach $32,754 ten years later. The school's focus on practical skills training helps students find jobs, but earnings remain modest compared to four-year degree holders.
Where is Fortis College-Richmond located and what is the campus like?
The college sits in suburban Richmond, Virginia, serving the greater metropolitan area with a small, focused environment. With only 399 students, the campus offers an intimate setting where 62% of students are women. The suburban location provides access to Richmond's job market while maintaining lower costs than urban centers.
How diverse is the student body at Fortis College-Richmond?
Fortis College-Richmond serves a predominantly African American student population, with 77% Black students compared to just 9% White students. This demographic makeup reflects the school's role in providing career education to underserved communities in the Richmond area. The high percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 71% indicates the college primarily serves students from lower-income families.
