Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Mississippi Delta Community College

Mississippi Delta Community College's practical nursing program punches above its weight within the state, landing in the 60th percentile for earnings despite serving a predominantly working-class student body (49% receive Pell grants). Graduates earn $42,855 in their first year—trailing the national median by only $1,300 but exceeding the Mississippi average by nearly $5,000. That's competitive with top-tier state programs like Hinds and Pearl River, suggesting this school delivers comparable training at a similar cost.

The debt load of $16,048 is reasonable for a healthcare credential, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 that most graduates can manage. With Mississippi's lower cost of living, this salary goes further than it might elsewhere, and practical nurses typically find steady employment. However, the small graduating class (under 30 students) means these numbers could shift year to year, and individual outcomes may vary more than at larger programs.

For Mississippi families seeking an affordable path into healthcare, this program offers solid value—particularly for students who want to stay local. The earnings advantage over the state median suggests Delta's training translates well to the regional job market, and the debt is manageable enough that graduates shouldn't face years of financial stress. It's not a standout national performer, but it's doing exactly what a community college should: providing accessible healthcare training that leads to middle-class wages.