Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Long Island University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Long Island University's nursing program delivers exceptional earning potential that places it among the top 5% of nursing programs nationally, with first-year graduates earning $100,097—significantly above the national median of $74,888. However, the 60th percentile ranking within New York reveals this strong performance is more typical for the state's competitive nursing market, where programs routinely produce high earners.
The debt picture is quite favorable, with graduates owing $31,000 compared to national and state medians of $27,000. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 means graduates earn roughly three times their debt load in their first year—a very manageable burden that positions them for financial success. With earnings growing to $108,509 by year four, the investment pays dividends over time.
While LIU's program doesn't crack the top tier of New York nursing schools (where earnings can exceed $115,000), it offers a compelling middle-ground option. The 90% admission rate suggests accessibility compared to more selective programs, yet outcomes remain strong. For families seeking a solid nursing program that delivers excellent earnings with reasonable debt, this represents a smart financial choice, particularly given the robust job market for nurses in the New York metropolitan area.
Where Long Island University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Long Island University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Long Island University graduates earn $100k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (61 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Island University | $100,097 | $108,509 | $31,000 | 0.31 |
| Helene Fuld College of Nursing | $119,170 | $111,944 | — | — |
| CUNY Medgar Evers College | $115,779 | $109,153 | $21,213 | 0.18 |
| CUNY York College | $113,718 | $101,249 | $12,125 | 0.11 |
| SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University | $112,670 | $107,199 | $22,023 | 0.20 |
| New York University | $111,360 | $106,295 | $25,500 | 0.23 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in New York
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New York schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Helene Fuld College of Nursing New York | $24,648 | $119,170 | — |
| CUNY Medgar Evers College Brooklyn | $7,352 | $115,779 | $21,213 |
| CUNY York College Jamaica | $7,358 | $113,718 | $12,125 |
| SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Brooklyn | — | $112,670 | $22,023 |
| New York University New York | $60,438 | $111,360 | $25,500 |
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 Long Island University, approximately 19% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 617 graduates with reported earnings and 614 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.