Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Atlantic Technical College

Atlantic Technical College's nursing program shows a troubling pattern: graduates earn $46,267 in their first year—outpacing both state and national medians—but see their income drop to $39,382 by year four. This 15% decline matters because most nursing careers should see steady wage growth as skills develop and experience accumulates. Among Florida's 110 programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile for initial earnings, meaning it starts above average but falls behind peers who typically maintain or grow their income trajectories.

The $9,222 debt load is manageable relative to first-year earnings, with graduates owing just 20 cents per dollar earned. However, the debt ranks in the 88th percentile nationally, meaning most comparable programs saddle students with even less debt—a point of distinction for Atlantic Technical. The real concern is what happens after that first job: are graduates getting locked into lower-paying LPN roles without advancement paths, or is the local job market saturated? Top Florida programs like Florida State College at Jacksonville maintain earnings above $57,000, suggesting the ceiling here isn't just about the profession.

For an affordable entry into nursing, this program works—especially if your child uses it as a stepping stone to further credentials. But expect their peak earning year to be their first one, not their fourth.