Why Did They Close?
The American College for Medical Careers, a private for-profit institution specializing in medical career education, closed in 2020 due to its loss of eligibility for federal student aid programs. The catalyst for this loss stemmed from the institution’s failure to furnish the U.S. Department of Education (ED) with the essential documentation following a change in ownership. This crucial oversight led to the cessation of federal student aid, creating financial instability for the college.
The abrupt halt in such assistance likely resulted in a decline in student enrollment and, consequently, a significant strain on the institution’s operational capabilities. Despite being equipped with modern facilities and resources for hands-on training, the unfortunate combination of administrative shortcomings and the subsequent loss of federal support ultimately contributed to the closure of the American College for Medical Careers.
Programs & Courses
Healthcare and Nursing
- Dental Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Radiology
- Respiratory Therapy
Campus Locations
Orlando 5959 Lake Ellenor Dr, Orlando, FL 32809
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the American College for Medical Careers (ACMC) has a predominantly negative reputation with recurring and serious criticisms, particularly concerning administration, organization, and finances. The few positive reviews generally focus on the quality of specific program instructors.
Overall Score: 2.3/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Instructors: The most frequent positive comments are directed at a handful of specific program teachers, who are cited as being “amazing professors,” “incredible and enthusiastic,” and “the best” with good explanations and creativity.
Program Readiness: Specific faculty members in the Respiratory Program and Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program receive particular praise for effectively preparing students for professional certification exams (like the NBRC).
Initial Admissions: A few reviewers noted a good initial experience during the admission process, though many state this positive experience was short-lived.
Common Criticisms
Severe Lack of Organization and Communication: This is the most pervasive issue, with the school repeatedly called “unorganized” and cited for giving students the “run around.” Specific problems include long delays for graduation, unresponsive instructors, and materials (like books) not being ready on time.
Deceptive Financial Practices: Multiple reviews accuse the school of being “only money hungry” and using deceptive tactics. Students felt their “money and time were stolen.” The school is also cited as being too expensive compared to local alternatives.
Withholding Credentials: Several reviewers state the school withheld diplomas and transcripts until extra fees were paid, even after coursework was complete.
Unprofessional Conduct: While some staff are praised, others are explicitly called “unprofessional” and “mean,” including an alleged incident where a grade was lowered for non-academic, personal reasons.
Forced Enrollment: One account suggests the school forces students to enroll in a shorter, preparatory program (e.g., Medical Assisting) before allowing them to start their desired major (e.g., DMS).
Accusation of Lost Accreditation: One severe and specific criticism claims that the school “has lost there accreditation.” (This is a major, serious claim that requires external verification.)
Momentum
The reviews show a steep negative momentum, which ultimately contributed to the school’s closure. The most severe criticisms about administrative failures, financial deception, and the loss of accreditation became more frequent and detailed in later reviews. The provided Google reviews also show a user question from 4 years ago asking if the school had closed, and a review from 3 years ago lamenting a poor experience after withdrawing due to medical issues. This trend of escalating negative feedback and questions about the school’s status foreshadowed its closure in 2020, which was attributed to “administrative shortcomings” and a loss of eligibility for federal student aid. The school’s quick responses to some complaints were not enough to stem the tide of dissatisfaction.