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

Dewey University-Manati's nursing program navigates Puerto Rico's challenging healthcare wage landscape more successfully than most island alternatives, ranking in the 80th percentile statewide with earnings 82% above the Puerto Rico median for nursing programs. While the $21,237 starting salary falls dramatically short of the $74,888 national figure, that comparison misses the economic reality: nurses in Puerto Rico face a fundamentally different wage structure than their mainland counterparts. What matters more is that graduates here earn substantially more than peers at 32 of the state's 40 nursing programs, carrying just $5,530 in debt—about half the already-low state median.

The 44% earnings growth to $30,509 by year four suggests these graduates gain traction in the local market, though they'll still earn less than nurses at top Puerto Rico programs like Universidad del Sagrado Corazon. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26 is exceptional by any standard, meaning graduates can realistically manage their loans even on island wages. With 89% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a population with limited alternatives, delivering practical credentials at minimal financial risk.

For families staying in Puerto Rico, this represents a solid pathway into nursing without the debt burden that could become crushing on local salaries. Those considering mainland opportunities should understand they're training at wages that won't translate directly off-island.