Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Dutchess Community College

Dutchess Community College nursing graduates earn $80,603 just one year after completing their associate's degree—outpacing 92% of similar programs nationwide and exceeding the New York median by more than $7,000. The debt load of $21,868 is actually below the state average, creating a remarkably strong debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27. That means graduates can theoretically pay off their loans with just over three months of their first year's salary.

The 60th percentile ranking within New York deserves context: while this program doesn't reach the heights of specialized nursing schools like Cochran or Hostos (both exceeding $95,000), it substantially outperforms the state's typical nursing program while keeping costs lower. Earnings remain steady at $81,495 after four years rather than showing significant growth, but starting at this level, aggressive salary increases aren't necessary for strong financial outcomes.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means individual circumstances could skew these numbers, but the fundamental value proposition holds. For a community college program that students can complete in two years, these earnings are exceptional. Most parents would gladly accept this combination: manageable debt, immediate strong earnings, and performance that beats three-quarters of the nation's nursing programs.