Science Technologies/Technicians at College of Southern Nevada

The College of Southern Nevada's Science Technologies program starts rough but gets significantly better—first-year earnings of just $24,614 jump to $45,193 by year four, an 84% increase that eventually brings graduates close to the state median of $35,000. However, that initial year is genuinely concerning: it's in the 5th percentile nationally and sits well below what Truckee Meadows Community College grads earn ($45,268). Most students appear to need time—likely additional certification or experience—before reaching competitive wages.

The $8,250 debt load is manageable and falls below both state and national medians, making the initial low earnings less painful than they could be. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 looks reasonable on paper, though it obscures that difficult first year when graduates are earning far less than peers elsewhere. Among Nevada's two schools offering this program, CSN ranks in the 25th percentile—the smaller option in a limited market.

This program works for students who can afford to start at entry-level wages while building toward something better, particularly those already working in Las Vegas labs or medical facilities who need the credential for advancement. The strong earnings growth suggests graduates do find their footing. But if your student needs immediate earning power after graduation or is comparing this to Truckee Meadows, understand they're choosing the slower path with a much harder first year.