Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Des Moines Area Community College

The small sample size here demands caution, but the available numbers tell an unusual story: graduates start well below the national median at $34,390, yet within four years they're earning $54,641—a 59% jump that outpaces typical growth in this field. Among Iowa's 16 practical nursing programs, this one lands right at the 60th percentile, performing respectably within the state despite its weak national ranking. The debt load of $11,625 is notably lower than both the state median ($17,460) and national benchmark ($14,803), creating breathing room for graduates to establish themselves financially.

What makes this tricky is the unusual earnings pattern: most practical nursing programs show steady, predictable income from the start, but this program's graduates appear to start in lower-paid positions before moving up significantly. That could reflect the local job market in Ankeny, the types of facilities hiring new graduates, or simply statistical noise from the small cohort. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 in year one improves dramatically as earnings climb, suggesting graduates eventually reach solid financial footing.

For an Iowa family, this program offers an affordable entry point into nursing with manageable debt. Just understand that the first year or two may involve lower-paying work while your child builds experience and credentials to access better positions—the kind Eastern Iowa Community College grads seem to secure immediately at $45,662. The investment pencils out if your child is willing to play the long game.