Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 31.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $34,509
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $13,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 30.5%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $138/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Associate | $39,369 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $38,289 | |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $33,993 | $6,333 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $32,818 | $13,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $28,960 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $21,640 | $9,500 |
Outcomes Overview
Fortis Institute-Cookeville graduates earn a median of $34,509 ten years after graduation, while carrying $13,000 in median debt. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 38%, which is reasonable for career training programs. Monthly loan payments of $138 consume about 5% of typical graduate income. The school boasts a 95.2% employment rate, reflecting strong job placement in healthcare and technical fields that dominate the local economy. However, the 31% loan repayment rate suggests many graduates struggle financially despite finding work. Career training institutes typically prepare students for immediate employment rather than high-earning positions. Given the modest earnings potential against decent job placement rates, this represents an average return on investment.