Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Nevada State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Nevada State University's nursing program delivers strong starting salaries that significantly outpace national expectations, with graduates earning $85,585 in their first year—well above the national median of $74,888 and ranking in the 85th percentile nationally. However, the program sits right at the middle of Nevada's competitive nursing landscape, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide where median earnings are already high at $85,168.
The debt picture is quite manageable at $29,500, creating a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 that's better than two-thirds of similar programs nationwide. This means graduates can realistically pay off their loans within reasonable timeframes. The concerning element is the complete lack of earnings growth—graduates earn essentially the same amount four years out as they do immediately after graduation, suggesting limited advancement opportunities or career progression within this program's typical career paths.
For parents evaluating this program, Nevada State offers solid immediate returns with reasonable debt levels, making it a financially sensible choice for students seeking stable nursing careers. While it won't distinguish your child among Nevada's top nursing programs, it provides reliable entry into a high-demand field without excessive financial burden.
Where Nevada State 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 Nevada State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Nevada State University graduates earn $86k, placing them in the 85th 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 Nevada
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nevada (9 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada State University | $85,585 | $85,115 | $29,500 | 0.34 |
| Touro University Nevada | $100,956 | $76,026 | $16,002 | 0.16 |
| University of Nevada-Reno | $85,733 | $80,458 | $20,813 | 0.24 |
| Arizona College of Nursing-Las Vegas | $85,169 | — | $51,854 | 0.61 |
| Roseman University of Health Sciences | $85,166 | $86,451 | $27,448 | 0.32 |
| University of Nevada-Las Vegas | $83,327 | $86,618 | $19,733 | 0.24 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Nevada
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Nevada schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touro University Nevada Henderson | — | $100,956 | $16,002 |
| University of Nevada-Reno Reno | $8,994 | $85,733 | $20,813 |
| Arizona College of Nursing-Las Vegas Las Vegas | $22,426 | $85,169 | $51,854 |
| Roseman University of Health Sciences Henderson | — | $85,166 | $27,448 |
| University of Nevada-Las Vegas Las Vegas | $9,142 | $83,327 | $19,733 |
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 Nevada State University, approximately 22% 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 394 graduates with reported earnings and 385 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.