Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences

Joyce University's nursing program costs more than most Utah alternatives but delivers measurably better outcomes. While graduates carry $36,000 in debt—about $14,000 above the state median—they earn $74,693 in their first year, ranking in the 60th percentile among Utah nursing programs. That's nearly $8,000 more than the typical Utah nursing graduate makes, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 is manageable for a nursing salary.

The earnings trajectory looks solid, with graduates seeing a 12% increase to $83,350 by year four. This puts Joyce grads within striking distance of top performers like Western Governors and Arizona College, but without those schools' higher price tags. You're essentially paying a premium over programs like Utah Tech or University of Utah (which cost less) to access stronger early earnings that position your child well in the job market.

The key question is whether that $14,000 additional debt is worth the $8,000 earnings advantage. For families prioritizing quick employment and higher starting salaries, that math works. The moderate sample size means outcomes are reasonably stable, and with 34% of students receiving Pell grants, the school serves a diverse student body. This isn't the cheapest path to an RN license in Utah, but it's delivering tangible value above the state median.