Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Augusta University

Augusta University's nursing graduates face an unusual earnings trajectory that deserves scrutiny. While new graduates earn a respectable $74,307—nearly matching national figures—their earnings drop 9% to $67,564 by year four. Among Georgia's 37 nursing programs, this places Augusta in just the 40th percentile, with graduates earning roughly $9,000 less than the state median four years out. Several Georgia schools, including community colleges like Georgia Highlands, consistently produce graduates earning $15,000+ more annually.

The $22,956 debt load is manageable in absolute terms and lower than both state and national medians, which helps offset the earnings concern. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 is solid. However, the backward earnings trend is puzzling for a healthcare field that typically offers steady growth. This pattern could reflect graduates taking lower-paid positions, leaving acute care settings, or regional wage dynamics in the Augusta area.

For Georgia families, this represents a relatively safe but unremarkable choice. Your child will likely start strong but may need to be strategic about career advancement to avoid income stagnation. If staying in Georgia, consider the community college nursing pathways that are delivering stronger mid-career outcomes at similar or lower debt levels.