Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Frostburg State University

Frostburg State delivers stronger-than-expected nursing outcomes for a school with an 89% admission rate. At $82,617 in first-year earnings, graduates outpace the national median by over $7,700 and rank in the 78th percentile nationally—impressive performance that puts this program ahead of three-quarters of nursing schools. Within Maryland's competitive nursing landscape, Frostburg lands solidly in the middle (60th percentile), trailing heavyweights like UMD Global Campus but still exceeding the state median.

The debt picture strengthens the case considerably. At $22,750, graduates carry about $4,250 less than the state median and $2,000 below their Maryland peers. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 means borrowers face roughly three months of pre-tax income in debt—very manageable for a nursing salary. For families watching costs, this matters: Frostburg provides comparable career outcomes to more expensive Maryland programs while keeping debt loads lighter.

The slight earnings dip between years one and four ($549 total) is typical for nursing graduates who often start at competitive hospital wages that flatten over time without advanced credentials. With strong starting salaries, low debt, and a third of students receiving Pell grants, Frostburg offers solid value for Maryland families seeking an affordable entry into nursing careers.