Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at James Rumsey Technical Institute

Practical nursing graduates from James Rumsey typically earn less than their peers across West Virginia—about $40,800 compared to a state median near $39,000—but several competing programs in the state produce graduates earning $44,000 to $46,000 in their first year. While the estimated debt of around $11,300 (based on comparable WV nursing programs) is manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28, you're looking at roughly $5,000 less in first-year income than what top programs in the state deliver.

The earnings gap matters more than it might seem. That $5,000 difference compounds when you're paying down loans and covering living expenses. Nationally, the typical nursing assistant or LPN earns about $44,100, putting this program below both state top performers and the national benchmark. Since the debt figure comes from similar programs rather than James Rumsey's actual graduates, the real financial picture could vary—better or worse.

For families weighing options, visit the higher-earning programs if geography allows. If James Rumsey is your most accessible choice due to location or timing, the debt load won't crush you, but understand you're likely starting with a lower earnings baseline than graduates from United Technical Center or West Virginia Junior College-Morgantown. The 30% Pell rate suggests this school serves students who need affordable access, which the estimated debt supports—just know other programs appear to deliver stronger wage outcomes.