Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Jefferson College

Jefferson College nursing graduates earn solidly above the Missouri median for associate-degree RN programs, landing at the 60th percentile statewide—a meaningful advantage when most students will pursue in-state opportunities. The $67,439 first-year salary outpaces the state median by over $4,000, while the $22,554 debt load sits right in line with both state and national norms, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33.

The concerning pattern here is the earnings trajectory: graduates see their median pay slip to $61,831 by year four, an 8% decline that's unusual in a profession known for steady advancement. This could reflect shifts to part-time work, transitions between care settings, or simply the volatility of a moderate sample size rather than a true career ceiling. However, even with this dip, year-four earnings still exceed Missouri's overall program median.

For families prioritizing affordable RN credentials with strong immediate job prospects in Missouri, this program delivers. The debt is reasonable, starting salaries are competitive with community colleges across the state, and the in-state earning advantage matters for students planning to work locally. Just recognize that the typical pattern of steadily rising nursing wages may not materialize here—at least not in the first few years—though starting in the upper half of Missouri programs provides a solid foundation.