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

Colorado nursing programs track fairly closely together, with most associate degree programs clustered in the low-to-mid $70,000s for first-year earnings. Peer programs across the state suggest starting salaries around $71,600, placing Lamar Community College's program right in the middle of the pack—neither a standout nor a laggard compared to Front Range, Pikes Peak, or similar community colleges. However, the four-year mark tells a different story: earnings drop to $55,125, which is unusual for nursing where income typically rises with experience and additional certifications.

That earnings dip deserves attention. It could reflect graduates leaving the profession, relocating to lower-cost rural areas where Lamar operates, or taking part-time positions. For a nursing credential, this pattern is worth investigating directly with the school. The estimated debt of $21,000 is manageable against typical first-year nursing salaries—a 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio means roughly four months of gross income to cover the full amount.

The practical takeaway: If your child plans to work in Colorado's rural communities where Lamar draws its students, this program appears financially viable for the first few years. But the mid-career earnings drop requires explanation before committing. Ask the school about graduate employment patterns and whether their alumni stay in nursing long-term or transition to other roles that might explain the lower four-year figure.