Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Bergen Community College
Associate's Degree
Analysis
Bergen Community College's nursing program proves that a community college education can deliver strong financial returns—graduates earn $76,147 just one year out, ranking in the 81st percentile nationally while carrying relatively modest debt of $18,750. That's a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.25, meaning graduates earn their entire debt load back in about three months. The earnings trajectory looks even better four years out, with median pay reaching $91,465—a solid 20% increase that reflects how nursing experience translates directly into higher compensation.
The program sits comfortably in the 60th percentile among New Jersey nursing schools, which matters since most students will stay in-state where nursing pays exceptionally well. While top performers like Hudson County Community College ($92,941) edge ahead, Bergen's combination of strong earnings and manageable debt positions graduates well in one of the country's highest-paying nursing markets. The $18,750 debt load runs below both state and national medians, giving graduates financial flexibility early in their careers.
For families weighing community college nursing options in New Jersey, Bergen offers a straightforward value proposition: above-average national outcomes, competitive state performance, and debt that won't create financial stress on a new nurse's salary. The numbers suggest graduates enter the workforce earning well and continue building momentum.
Where Bergen Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing associates's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Bergen Community College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Bergen Community College graduates earn $76k, placing them in the 81th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing associates programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing associates's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (23 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bergen Community College | $76,147 | $91,465 | $18,750 | 0.25 |
| Hudson County Community College | $92,941 | $87,803 | $21,000 | 0.23 |
| Eastern International College-Jersey City | $90,216 | $92,149 | $32,756 | 0.36 |
| Ocean County College | $82,925 | $73,281 | $22,418 | 0.27 |
| UCNJ Union College of Union County New Jersey | $82,581 | $89,387 | $30,195 | 0.37 |
| Raritan Valley Community College | $82,020 | $81,224 | $19,145 | 0.23 |
| National Median | $68,409 | — | $20,751 | 0.30 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in New Jersey
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Jersey schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hudson County Community College Jersey City | $5,020 | $92,941 | $21,000 |
| Eastern International College-Jersey City Jersey City | $18,947 | $90,216 | $32,756 |
| Ocean County College Toms River | $4,690 | $82,925 | $22,418 |
| UCNJ Union College of Union County New Jersey Cranford | $5,280 | $82,581 | $30,195 |
| Raritan Valley Community College Branchburg | $5,520 | $82,020 | $19,145 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Bergen Community College, approximately 34% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 43 graduates with reported earnings and 128 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.