Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at California State University-Fresno

California State University-Fresno's nursing program delivers exceptional value through a simple formula: sky-high national placement with remarkably low debt. At under $18,000 in student loans—well below both state and national medians—graduates immediately earn $96,890, crushing the national median by nearly $22,000. That 0.19 debt-to-earnings ratio means your child could pay off their entire debt in just over two months of work, a financial advantage that compounds for years.

The 40th percentile ranking among California programs deserves context. While Fresno State's $96,890 sits about $4,000 below the state median, California nursing salaries are so elevated that this "middle-of-the-pack" state performance still places graduates in the 95th percentile nationally. Your child will earn more than 95% of nursing graduates nationwide, just not quite as much as those landing in California's most expensive metro areas. The minimal earnings growth from year one to four suggests graduates reach near-peak earning potential immediately—this is a profession where you start strong.

For families weighing cost against outcomes, Fresno State represents one of the clearest wins in California nursing education. The combination of a highly accessible 96% admission rate, strong support for low-income students, and minimal debt burden makes this program particularly valuable for families who need both quality training and financial security.