Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University's nursing program shows an unusual earnings trajectory that warrants careful consideration. Graduates start strong at $78,087—above both the national and Georgia medians—but see their earnings drop 15% to $66,492 by year four. This reverse pattern is concerning in a field where nurses typically see steady income growth as they gain experience and specializations. Among Georgia's 37 nursing programs, this ranks solidly in the 60th percentile for starting salary, but several state schools like East Georgia State and Georgia Highlands deliver $6,000-8,000 more in initial earnings.

The $25,000 debt load is actually better than both state and national averages, yielding a manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation. That's the good news. However, if the earnings decline persists, graduates may find themselves earning less than they did as new nurses while peers at other programs advance their careers. The decline could signal limited opportunities for career progression in the region, though without more data it's hard to pinpoint the cause.

For the price and debt burden, this program offers reasonable value, but the backwards earnings trajectory is a red flag. If your child plans to stay in central Georgia after graduation, investigate why earnings appear to plateau or decline—it may influence whether this program sets them up for long-term success in nursing.