Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences

Cabarrus College graduates start strong at $71,240—well above both the national and North Carolina medians for associate-level nursing programs—but earnings drop 16% by year four to under $60,000. This isn't a typical nursing trajectory, where income usually climbs with experience and clinical certifications. Among the state's 59 nursing programs, Cabarrus ranks solidly middle-of-the-pack (60th percentile), but look at what other North Carolina schools deliver: Robeson Community College's graduates earn $77,000, and even nearby Central Piedmont hits $73,000—both maintaining those earnings over time rather than seeing them decline.

The debt load of $23,749 runs about $9,000 higher than North Carolina's median for this program, which matters when earnings aren't growing. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 looks manageable initially, but becomes less comfortable as that income shrinks. At 49% admissions and serving a reasonably accessible student body (28% Pell-eligible), this isn't a highly selective program—you'd expect strong job placement to compensate.

For a North Carolina resident comparing nursing programs, this one charges more and delivers less than multiple community college options in the state. Unless location is a deciding factor, those alternatives offer better value with stronger, more stable earnings trajectories.