Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts

Gurnick Academy delivers exceptional national value for practical nursing training, with graduates earning $54,359 in their first year—placing this program in the 90th percentile nationally and significantly above the national median of $44,134. The debt load of $17,317 is reasonable, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32, meaning graduates earn over three times their debt in their first year alone.

However, the California context reveals a more moderate picture. While Gurnick's outcomes exceed the state median earnings of $53,040, the program ranks at only the 60th percentile among California nursing programs. Several other California schools produce graduates earning $60,000+ annually, suggesting stronger in-state alternatives may exist. The debt level aligns closely with the California median, so cost isn't a particular advantage or disadvantage within the state.

The 6% earnings growth over four years is modest but steady, and the robust sample size of 100+ graduates makes these figures reliable. For families prioritizing solid, dependable outcomes in nursing, Gurnick offers a clear path to middle-class earnings with manageable debt. However, if your child is competitive for admission, exploring higher-performing California programs like Unitek College or Medical Allied Career Center could yield significantly better financial returns.