Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Freed-Hardeman University

Freed-Hardeman's nursing program starts strong with first-year earnings of $64,784, but then takes an unusual turn: by year four, graduates earn $53,436—a 17% decline that's rare in nursing and suggests graduates may be shifting to part-time work, leaving the field, or facing regional market constraints. While the program ranks at the 40th percentile among Tennessee nursing schools (just below the state median of $67,094), it trails significantly behind top in-state options like Strayer Tennessee ($81,061) and even public alternatives like UT-Martin ($71,727).

The $24,800 debt load is reasonable—lower than both state and national medians—which means the immediate financial burden isn't alarming. However, that declining earnings trajectory changes the calculus. Most nursing programs show stable or growing earnings as new nurses gain experience and certifications; here, something disrupts that pattern after graduation.

For families considering this program, the question becomes: what happens after that first year? If your child plans to stay in rural West Tennessee where jobs may be limited, or if they're considering graduate school or a career shift, this trajectory might reflect intentional choices rather than program weakness. But if the goal is a traditional nursing career with increasing earning power, you'd likely see better returns at UT-Martin (higher earnings, similar cost) or Baptist Health Sciences University in Memphis.