Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Broome Delaware Tioga BOCES-Practical Nursing Program

Broome Delaware Tioga BOCES delivers a practical nursing credential that lands squarely in the middle of the pack—both nationally and within New York. First-year earnings of $42,384 fall about $2,600 below the state median and rank in the 40th percentile among New York's 49 programs. The debt load of $14,862 is modest in absolute terms, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35, meaning graduates owe roughly four months of their first-year salary.

The gap between this program and New York's top performers is substantial. Programs like Transitions Career Institute and AMG School of Nursing produce graduates earning over $60,000—nearly 50% more than BOCES graduates. Even nearby public options like CUNY LaGuardia deliver $56,000 in first-year earnings. This suggests either regional wage differences in upstate New York versus downstate markets, or potential differences in job placement and clinical training networks.

For families considering this program, the value proposition depends heavily on geography and alternatives. If your child plans to work in the Southern Tier region where cost of living is lower, these earnings stretch further than downstate salaries would. The low debt burden means financial risk is contained. However, if competitive programs are accessible within driving distance, the earnings premium at higher-ranked schools could justify additional effort. This works as a local option but shouldn't be your only consideration if mobility is possible.