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

Monroe Community College's nursing program produces graduates who earn less than most of their peers in New York State—ranking in just the 40th percentile among the state's 64 nursing programs. That $69,316 first-year salary sits below the state median of $73,415, and the gap widens as graduates progress in their careers. By year four, earnings actually drop to $62,751, a concerning 9% decline that runs counter to typical nursing career trajectories. Compare this to top New York programs like Cochran or Hostos Community College, where graduates earn $95,000-$100,000+ annually.

The debt load of $25,875 is reasonable on its own—slightly above the state median but manageable at 37% of first-year earnings. However, that ratio becomes less favorable as earnings decline rather than grow. The program does serve a significant number of Pell-eligible students (47%), suggesting it provides access to nursing careers for lower-income students, which has real value.

For families considering in-state options, this represents below-average performance in a state with strong nursing programs. Your child would graduate with similar debt to peers at higher-earning programs but face weaker salary prospects. If Monroe is the only accessible option, nursing remains a stable career, but explore other SUNY or CUNY nursing programs that deliver stronger financial outcomes without necessarily higher costs.