Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Northwood Technical College

Something unusual is happening with Northwood's practical nursing program: graduates start at just $26,492—among the lowest in the nation for this credential—but nearly double their earnings to $45,516 within four years. That 72% growth trajectory eventually catches up to Wisconsin's median, though it means students spend their first few years earning substantially less than peers from other state programs like Herzing ($47,310 starting) or Rasmussen ($45,271).

The good news is that low debt load of $8,312, well below both state and national averages. This creates breathing room during those lean early years, with debt representing just 31% of first-year income. Among Wisconsin's 21 practical nursing programs, this ranks at the 25th percentile for earnings—meaning three-quarters of programs launch graduates into better-paying positions immediately.

For families, the critical question is whether your student can weather those initial years of below-market wages. The delayed earnings pattern suggests either lower-paying clinical placements, geographic factors in rural Wisconsin, or perhaps part-time work common among new graduates. The program ultimately delivers comparable four-year earnings with minimal debt, but only if you can afford the financial patience required to get there. Students needing immediate income to support themselves or families should look closely at programs with stronger starting salaries.