Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Holy Family University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Holy Family University's nursing program delivers strong early career outcomes that place graduates well above national standards, though the complete lack of earnings growth over four years deserves attention. With median starting salaries of $83,363, graduates earn significantly more than the national average of $74,888 and outpace most Pennsylvania nursing programs, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide among 52 schools offering this degree.
The debt picture is quite manageable at $29,000—just slightly above both national and state medians but resulting in a healthy debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35. This means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off their loans while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. However, the flat earnings trajectory from year one to year four ($83,634) suggests this program may not provide the same long-term earning potential as nursing degrees that show steady salary progression.
For parents evaluating this investment, Holy Family offers solid value with above-average starting salaries and reasonable debt loads. While it doesn't crack the top tier of Pennsylvania nursing schools like Villanova or Immaculata, it provides reliable entry into a stable, well-compensated profession. The key consideration is whether your child values immediate earning power over long-term salary growth potential.
Where Holy Family University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Holy Family University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Holy Family University graduates earn $83k, placing them in the 80th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (52 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holy Family University | $83,363 | $83,634 | $29,000 | 0.35 |
| Immaculata University | $87,624 | $91,952 | $35,593 | 0.41 |
| Villanova University | $86,241 | $87,471 | $27,000 | 0.31 |
| Thomas Jefferson University | $85,656 | $86,217 | $30,000 | 0.35 |
| Drexel University | $85,441 | $84,218 | $30,750 | 0.36 |
| La Salle University | $84,400 | $88,296 | $27,000 | 0.32 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immaculata University Immaculata | $28,550 | $87,624 | $35,593 |
| Villanova University Villanova | $64,701 | $86,241 | $27,000 |
| Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia | $45,683 | $85,656 | $30,000 |
| Drexel University Philadelphia | $60,663 | $85,441 | $30,750 |
| La Salle University Philadelphia | $35,570 | $84,400 | $27,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Holy Family University, approximately 40% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 420 graduates with reported earnings and 421 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.