Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at College of Central Florida

College of Central Florida's nursing associate program delivers strong first-year earnings of $70,021, ranking in the 60th percentile among Florida's 73 nursing programs—notably above the state median of $64,718. The debt load of $16,607 is particularly impressive, coming in well below both the state median ($25,749) and national average ($20,751). For families, this means a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24, where graduates owe roughly three months' salary. This combination of above-average earnings with below-average debt makes it a solid financial proposition for students entering Florida's healthcare workforce.

The main caveat is a modest 3% earnings dip from year one to year four, dropping to $67,699. This isn't necessarily alarming—it could reflect early graduates shifting to different nursing roles or adjusting hours—but it does mean the financial picture may not improve significantly in those crucial first years after graduation. Still, even at the four-year mark, earnings remain competitive with state averages.

For a Florida family considering an affordable entry into nursing, this program offers strong value: manageable debt, solid starting earnings that outpace most state peers, and serves a student body where 40% receive Pell grants. It's not at the elite level of schools like Broward or Valencia, but the lower debt load helps offset that gap.