Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Dewey University-Carolina

These numbers reflect Puerto Rico's nursing market reality, not program failure. First-year earnings of $13,912 rank low nationally but place this program at the 25th percentile in Puerto Rico—context matters when the state's median nursing salary ($16,905) runs 75% below the mainland average. The modest $6,120 debt load means graduates carry less than half a year's earnings, one of the better debt-to-income ratios you'll find despite the low absolute wages.

The critical caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes can swing these averages dramatically. The 85% Pell Grant population suggests students here face significant financial constraints, making the low debt particularly important. While top Puerto Rico nursing programs report earnings around $31,800—more than double this figure—they may serve different student populations or have stronger hospital partnerships.

For families staying in Puerto Rico, this program offers nursing credentials without crushing debt, though graduates should expect to earn well below what mainland nurses make. If your child plans to practice on the mainland after graduation, verify that these credentials transfer smoothly and recognize they'll be competing with graduates from programs where clinical training may differ substantially.