Median Earnings (1yr)
$83,188
80th percentile (60th in LA)
Median Debt
$39,146
45% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.47
Manageable
Sample Size
10218
Adequate data

Analysis

Chamberlain University-Louisiana's nursing program delivers strong early-career earnings that significantly outpace both national and state benchmarks, with graduates earning $83,188 in their first year—about $11,000 more than the national median and $5,000 above Louisiana's median. Among Louisiana nursing programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, placing it solidly in the upper tier but not quite at the very top with schools like Dillard University.

The program's major strength lies in its debt management. At $39,146, student debt is higher than typical nursing programs nationally ($27,000 median) and in Louisiana ($28,143), but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47 remains very manageable—meaning graduates can reasonably expect to pay off loans within a few years. The concerning element is the slight earnings decline from year one to year four, suggesting limited salary growth potential compared to other nursing programs where earnings typically increase over time.

For an anxious parent, this represents a solid investment despite the premium price tag. Your child would graduate with debt that's reasonable relative to their earning power, and the strong initial salary provides financial stability right out of college. However, the flat earnings trajectory means this program may be better suited for students prioritizing immediate financial security over long-term earning growth.

Where Chamberlain University-Louisiana Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally

Chamberlain University-LouisianaOther registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Chamberlain University-Louisiana graduates compare to all programs nationally

Chamberlain University-Louisiana graduates earn $83k, placing them in the 80th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (20 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Chamberlain University-Louisiana$83,188$81,995$39,1460.47
Dillard University$86,585$73,046——
Louisiana State University-Alexandria$82,919—$28,1430.34
University of Louisiana at Lafayette$80,416$74,756$27,0000.34
Louisiana Christian University$80,263$64,206$41,4920.52
Southern University Law Center$79,871———
National Median$74,888—$27,0000.36

Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Louisiana

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Louisiana schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Dillard University
New Orleans
$22,194$86,585—
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
Alexandria
$7,050$82,919$28,143
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette
$10,418$80,416$27,000
Louisiana Christian University
Pineville
$19,740$80,263$41,492
Southern University Law Center
Baton Rouge
—$79,871—

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Chamberlain University-Louisiana, approximately 36% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 10218 graduates with reported earnings and 12380 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.