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

Nursing graduates from Dewey University-Carolina face a stark economic reality: first-year earnings of $21,237 fall 72% below the national median for nursing programs. However, the picture looks dramatically different when compared to Puerto Rico's nursing market, where these graduates earn in the 80th percentile—outperforming 32 of 40 programs statewide. The low debt load of $5,530 (among the lowest 5% nationally) means graduates aren't burdened while building their careers, and the 44% earnings jump to $30,509 by year four shows meaningful income growth within the local market.

The key question is whether your child plans to practice in Puerto Rico or on the mainland. The program delivers strong value for students staying on the island, where median nursing earnings are just $16,742. With 85% of students receiving Pell grants, Dewey serves a population for whom this affordable pathway into nursing—with minimal debt—represents genuine economic mobility. But families expecting mainland nursing salaries (typically $75,000+) will find this preparation doesn't translate to comparable compensation elsewhere.

For students committed to serving Puerto Rico's healthcare needs, this program offers a low-risk entry into nursing with earnings that climb steadily and outpace most island competitors. For those eyeing stateside opportunities, the earnings gap suggests significant barriers to geographic mobility.