Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at East Central Community College

East Central Community College's nursing program presents an unusual paradox: graduates carry exceptionally light debt loads but earn significantly less than their Mississippi counterparts. At $9,000 in median debt—nearly half the state median of $16,744—the financial barrier to entry is remarkably low. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.15 is excellent by any measure.

The earnings tell a more complicated story. First-year graduates earn $59,183, which places them at the 40th percentile among Mississippi's 17 nursing programs—essentially middle of the pack statewide but well below the state median of $67,054. Nationally, this ranks in just the 5th percentile, though that comparison matters less since most associate-degree nurses work regionally. More concerning is the slight earnings decline to $57,646 by year four, suggesting graduates may face limited advancement opportunities or regional wage constraints in the Decatur area.

For families prioritizing minimal debt exposure, this program delivers. Your child could start earning immediately with minimal financial burden. However, choosing a stronger-performing Mississippi program like Mississippi Delta ($74,925) or Southwest Mississippi ($70,513) could mean $13,000-15,000 more in annual income—enough to quickly offset higher upfront costs. If staying near Decatur is essential, the low debt makes this workable. If geographic flexibility exists, other Mississippi community colleges offer both low debt and stronger earning potential.