Est. Earnings (1yr)
$46,533
Est. from NC median (15 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$14,746
Est. from NC median (9 programs)

Analysis

Comparable nursing programs in North Carolina suggest James Sprunt graduates might earn around $46,500 their first year—solidly at the state median but trailing the top community college programs by $5,000 or more. With estimated debt near $14,750, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 lands in reasonable territory for a healthcare credential, though it's worth noting that some NC schools appear to produce better outcomes. The state's nursing market clearly rewards certain programs over others, and James Sprunt sits in the middle of that pack.

The practical challenge here is that all these figures come from similar nursing programs across North Carolina, not actual outcomes from James Sprunt itself. That means you're essentially betting that this school performs like the typical NC nursing program—not a terrible gamble given the standardized nature of LPN licensing and training, but also not a guarantee. The estimated debt is manageable on these projected earnings, requiring roughly 4-5 months of gross income to cover, which is workable for an entry-level healthcare position.

For parents weighing this investment, the baseline looks sound: nursing credentials typically lead to immediate employment, and these estimates suggest livable debt levels. But before committing, check James Sprunt's NCLEX pass rates and job placement numbers directly with the school—those metrics will tell you whether this specific program delivers on what the state averages promise.

Where James Sprunt Community College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all practical nursing, vocational nursing and nursing assistants certificate's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina

Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants certificate's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (48 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
James Sprunt Community CollegeKenansville$2,592$46,533*—$14,746*—
Isothermal Community CollegeSpindale$2,030$51,324*$43,831$6,625*0.13
McDowell Technical Community CollegeMarion$1,958$51,299*$46,612—*—
Rockingham Community CollegeWentworth$1,966$49,931*——*—
Forsyth Technical Community CollegeWinston-Salem$2,256$48,466*$53,988$15,550*0.32
Montgomery Community CollegeTroy$2,538$47,578*$42,280—*—
National Median—$44,134*—$14,803*0.34
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with practical nursing, vocational nursing and nursing assistants graduates

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

Care for ill, injured, or convalescing patients or persons with disabilities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions. May work under the supervision of a registered nurse. Licensing required.

$62,340/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award

Nursing Assistants

Provide or assist with basic care or support under the direction of onsite licensed nursing staff. Perform duties such as monitoring of health status, feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, or ambulation of patients in a health or nursing facility. May include medication administration and other health-related tasks. Includes nursing care attendants, nursing aides, and nursing attendants.

$39,430/yrJobs growth:
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 James Sprunt Community College, approximately 38% 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.

Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 15 similar programs in NC. Actual outcomes may vary.