Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at New Mexico Junior College

New Mexico Junior College's nursing program charges below-average debt ($13,472 versus $20,751 nationally) but trails most New Mexico nursing programs in earnings outcomes. Graduates start at $71,456—about $2,000 below the state median—and by year four, earnings actually slip to $68,386. This matters because New Mexico has 20 nursing programs, and NMJC ranks in just the 40th percentile statewide despite performing slightly above the national average.

The earnings decline is unusual for nursing, where wages typically grow as nurses gain experience and certifications. Meanwhile, four other New Mexico programs deliver starting salaries above $78,000—that's a $7,000 difference in year-one earnings alone. The low debt does help: with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.19, most graduates should manage repayment comfortably. But you're still paying for training that underperforms compared to what's available elsewhere in the state.

If staying in Hobbs matters for personal reasons, this program offers a manageable path into nursing without crushing debt. But families should understand they're likely accepting lower lifetime earnings compared to programs at Santa Fe Community College, NMSU-Dona Ana, or other top-performing New Mexico schools. The financial difference adds up quickly over a nursing career.