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.
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About This Data
Statistics on this page come from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard and IPEDS (2023–24 data year), with climate normals from NOAA and campus safety figures from Clery Act reports. CampusGuide does not estimate or adjust reported figures. Read our full methodology.