Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Arapahoe Community College

Arapahoe Community College's nursing program launches graduates into $73,926 first-year salaries while keeping debt at $30,750—a manageable 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio that compares favorably to most healthcare programs. The earnings significantly exceed the national median for associate nursing programs by over $5,000, though graduates sit near the middle of Colorado's competitive nursing market, where several community colleges produce similarly strong outcomes.

The concerning trend here is the slight earnings dip from year one to year four, dropping to $72,780. While this decline is modest, it contrasts with typical nursing career trajectories where experience usually commands higher pay. However, with a small sample size (under 30 graduates), this pattern may reflect individual career choices—such as nurses pursuing further education or shifting to part-time work—rather than program limitations. The debt load remains relatively low compared to many nursing programs nationally, ranking in just the 14th percentile.

For parents evaluating Colorado nursing programs, Arapahoe delivers solid results but doesn't lead the state pack. Morgan Community College and Front Range Community College show slightly higher earnings potential at similar or lower debt levels. Still, starting near $74,000 with moderate debt positions graduates well for financial stability. Just recognize these numbers come from a limited sample, so individual outcomes may vary more than usual.