Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Centralia College

Centralia College's nursing program produces first-year earnings of $77,740—solid performance that lands in the 85th percentile nationally, though it trails several Washington community college nursing programs by $5,000-7,000 annually. With debt estimates based on comparable programs in the state suggesting around $18,200 borrowed, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.23, meaning they'd owe roughly three months' salary.

The modest earnings growth from year one to year four (+3%) is worth noting. Many nursing programs see graduates hit their stride quickly, and this relatively flat trajectory suggests Centralia's graduates may already be earning close to their mid-career potential right out of the gate—or that advancement opportunities in the region are limited. Either way, the strong starting salary matters more than incremental raises when you're clearing nearly $78,000 annually.

For parents weighing this option, the key advantage is clear: low estimated debt combined with earnings well above the national median for associate-degree nursing programs. The disadvantage is that other Washington community colleges are placing graduates into slightly higher-paying positions, possibly due to proximity to larger medical centers or regional wage differences. If location flexibility isn't an issue, this represents a cost-effective entry into a profession with immediate earning power.