Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Caribbean University-Bayamon

The most striking aspect of Caribbean University-Bayamon's practical nursing bachelor's program is the dramatic earnings trajectory—graduates more than double their income from year one to year four. While the initial $10,084 is concerning (below minimum wage even in Puerto Rico), the jump to $22,158 by year four suggests graduates may be starting in entry-level positions before advancing to better-paying roles. This puts the program in the 60th percentile among Puerto Rico nursing programs, though well behind the top performer (Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo) where graduates earn $26,314 right away.

The $15,250 debt load is actually favorable—in the 25th percentile nationally for this degree, meaning most comparable programs saddle students with more debt. Combined with the 75% Pell grant rate, this indicates the university serves lower-income students reasonably well on cost. However, that first-year debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.51 means graduates owe more than they earn initially, creating real cash flow challenges during those early years.

For families, this comes down to patience and financial cushion. If your child can weather lean first years (possibly living at home, working multiple part-time positions, or securing income-based loan repayment), the four-year outlook becomes more reasonable. But if immediate earnings are essential for financial stability, the top-tier programs in Puerto Rico offer significantly better starting salaries without necessarily charging more.