Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Herzing University-Orlando

Herzing University-Orlando's practical nursing program costs about $12,000 more in debt than the typical Florida program but delivers earnings that beat most in-state competitors. At $47,310 starting out, graduates here earn 16% more than Florida's median and land in the 60th percentile statewide—placing them alongside stronger programs like Herzing's Tampa campus and well above the $40,922 typical for Florida LPNs.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 means graduates owe less than half their first year's salary, which is manageable for healthcare careers with steady demand. More encouraging is the 18% earnings growth to nearly $56,000 by year four, suggesting graduates find opportunities to advance beyond entry-level positions. While the $22,586 debt sits higher than Florida's median, it remains far below the crushing debt loads seen in many certificate programs nationally—this ranks in just the 5th percentile for debt, meaning 95% of similar programs nationwide carry even more.

The 60% Pell grant rate indicates this program serves students who need accessible pathways into healthcare careers. For families weighing options, this represents a straightforward calculation: above-average debt in exchange for earnings that consistently outpace state norms and a credential that opens doors in Florida's robust healthcare market. The premium over cheaper community college options buys you slightly higher starting earnings and proven outcomes.