Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Hutchinson Community College

Hutchinson Community College's nursing program starts strong with first-year earnings of $60,330, but then something unusual happens: graduates actually earn less four years later. This backward trajectory drops earnings to $53,133, creating a concerning pattern that places this program in just the 10th percentile nationally for nursing associate degrees.

Within Kansas, the picture is equally challenging. At the 40th percentile statewide, Hutchinson trails significantly behind nearby community colleges—Pratt grads earn $70,680, and even Butler Community College posts $63,244. The debt load of $21,889 isn't excessive for nursing, but it takes on different weight when paired with declining earnings. You're essentially borrowing for a credential that may not sustain its initial value.

The earnings drop could reflect graduates moving to lower-cost areas, shifting to part-time work, or changing specialties, but without knowing the cause, it's a risk. For Kansas families, other community college nursing programs offer stronger outcomes at similar or lower cost. If Hutchinson is the only accessible option, the program still produces working nurses—but understand you're likely accepting below-average returns compared to what's available elsewhere in the state.