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

In Washington's competitive healthcare job market, nursing programs typically start graduates around $50,000, and comparable associate programs nationally suggest this range for Bates Technical College's practical nursing degree. What matters more here is the trajectory: by year four, graduates are earning $65,378—a substantial 26% increase that reflects the steady demand for nursing professionals in the Tacoma area and beyond.

The estimated debt of $18,241, based on similar technical college programs, produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35—meaning graduates would owe roughly four months of their starting salary. This sits comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold and tracks slightly below the national median debt for practical nursing programs. The relatively low Pell grant enrollment (9%) suggests many students have family support or other resources, though your child's financial situation will determine their actual borrowing needs.

The core question is whether an associate degree makes sense when LPN roles can sometimes be accessed through certificate programs. The answer depends on your child's goals: this credential can serve as a stepping stone to RN programs and provides more educational foundation. With healthcare employment consistently tight in the Puget Sound region, the earnings growth to mid-60s within four years suggests solid return potential, though you'll want to confirm directly with Bates what their specific graduates are experiencing in the local job market.