Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Caribbean University-Vega Baja

A bachelor's degree that starts at $10,084 in first-year earnings creates an immediate financial challenge, especially with $15,250 in debt. However, context matters significantly here. These earnings align with both the national and Puerto Rico medians for this program, and the relatively low debt (25th percentile nationally) suggests Caribbean University-Vega Baja keeps costs contained. Among Puerto Rico's seven schools offering this bachelor's-level nursing assistant program, this campus ranks in the 60th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack but well behind Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo's $26,314 starting salary.

The 120% earnings jump to $22,158 by year four offers some optimism, though this four-year trajectory still leaves graduates earning less than peers at the top-performing PR programs earn immediately. The debt burden becomes more manageable as earnings grow, but parents should understand their child would likely face several years of financial strain. With 79% of students receiving Pell grants, most families here are already navigating tight budgets.

This program makes most sense for students committed to staying in Puerto Rico who need an affordable path into healthcare. The contained debt is a genuine plus. However, if your child can access Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo or similar programs posting stronger initial earnings, the significantly higher starting salary could justify slightly higher costs. The bachelor's credential matters less here than getting the best possible earning trajectory from day one.