Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Henry Ford College

Henry Ford College nursing graduates start strong with $71,268 in first-year earnings—above both the national and Michigan medians for associate nursing programs. However, earnings drop to $66,615 by year four, an unusual 6% decline that warrants attention. At 60th percentile statewide, this program performs solidly but trails several Michigan community colleges where nurses earn $74,000-$76,000 just one year out. The $26,613 in typical debt is higher than both state and national medians, though still manageable at 37% of first-year income.

The earnings dip could reflect various factors: perhaps graduates move from high-intensity hospital roles to lower-paying but less demanding positions, or local market dynamics in the Detroit area affect wage trajectories differently than elsewhere. What matters practically is that even at the four-year mark, graduates earn nearly $66,000—decent money for an associate degree, though not exceptional for Michigan nursing.

For families weighing options, Henry Ford delivers a working-class pathway into nursing with outcomes that beat national standards but don't lead the pack in Michigan. If your child can access similarly affordable programs at Jackson, Mid Michigan, or Schoolcraft—where nurses earn $4,000-$9,000 more annually—those merit serious consideration. Otherwise, this program offers reliable entry to a stable profession, just not top-tier regional earning potential.