Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Los Angeles City College

Los Angeles City College's nursing program offers a striking paradox: graduates earn more than 95% of associate nursing programs nationwide, yet land squarely at the state median. That's California's competitive nursing market at work—where even "average" programs produce six-figure earners within four years.

The numbers tell an encouraging story despite the middling state ranking. First-year earnings of $83,699 jump to $110,644 by year four, showing strong career trajectory. More importantly, graduates carry just $13,993 in debt—significantly below both state and national medians. That translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.17, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in about two months of work. Compare that to the typical California nursing program graduate who carries $15,625 in debt, or national peers at $20,751.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift year to year, but the fundamentals remain solid: low debt, strong starting salary, and excellent growth potential. While this program won't place your child at the very top of California's nursing pay scale—some programs post $120,000+ first-year earnings—it offers a low-risk path into a profession where even middle-tier programs deliver comfortable six-figure careers. For families watching their budget, that combination is hard to beat.