Analysis
The earnings trajectory here tells an unusual story: graduates start below both national averages and most Nevada programs, earning just $28,803 initially compared to the $34,421 national median. But four years out, they're earning $45,975—a 60% jump that significantly outpaces typical career progression in this field. That kind of growth is rare for associate's degrees and suggests graduates may be gaining skills or credentials on the job that open better opportunities.
The $8,506 debt burden is remarkably low, creating genuine financial flexibility even during that modest first year. You're looking at debt equal to just 30% of first-year earnings, and by year four, the debt becomes almost negligible against income. This is among the lowest debt loads nationally for legal support programs (5th percentile), which typically saddle graduates with over $25,000 in loans.
The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary considerably from these medians. Still, the pattern makes sense—Las Vegas's legal market may offer limited entry-level paralegal roles but solid advancement opportunities once you prove yourself. If your child can weather a lean first year or two financially, this program's combination of minimal debt and strong earnings growth creates real value, especially compared to pricier alternatives that start only slightly higher.
Where College of Southern Nevada Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all legal support services associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How College of Southern Nevada graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| College of Southern Nevada | $28,803 | $45,975 | +60% |
| Portland Community College | $42,463 | $52,633 | +24% |
| South Coast College | $44,536 | $48,586 | +9% |
| MTI College | $47,535 | $48,502 | +2% |
| Inver Hills Community College | $49,694 | $46,860 | -6% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Legal Support Services associates's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,110 | $28,803 | $45,975 | $8,506 | 0.30 | |
| $6,007 | $49,694 | $46,860 | $24,521 | 0.49 | |
| $5,550 | $49,137 | — | $12,250 | 0.25 | |
| $5,050 | $48,960 | $42,281 | $18,625 | 0.38 | |
| — | $47,535 | $48,502 | $13,758 | 0.29 | |
| $3,050 | $46,622 | $44,916 | $9,000 | 0.19 | |
| National Median | — | $34,421 | — | $25,166 | 0.73 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with legal support services graduates
Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Interpreters and Translators
Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers
Legal Support Workers, All Other
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 College of Southern Nevada, approximately 30% 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 17 graduates with reported earnings and 20 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.