Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Homestead Schools

Homestead Schools launches graduates into solid early earnings at $50,456—well above the national average of $44,134—but the trajectory reverses quickly, with income dropping to $45,601 by year four. That 10% decline matters more when you consider California context: while this program ranks in the 77th percentile nationally, it sits squarely at the state's 40th percentile, with the typical California LVN program producing higher starting salaries around $53,000.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $18,040, borrowing stays manageable relative to first-year earnings (just 36% of income), and sits below the 28th percentile nationally for debt load. With nearly 60% of students receiving Pell grants, this accessibility matters for families who need an affordable entry point to healthcare careers. Still, the earnings dip suggests graduates may be taking lower-paying positions over time or facing local market constraints that better-positioned California programs avoid.

For families prioritizing speed to employment and manageable debt, Homestead delivers a functional credential. But if your child can access one of California's higher-performing programs—several launch graduates into the $60,000+ range—the long-term earnings advantage likely justifies exploring those alternatives, especially given this program's below-median performance within the state.