Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Ogden-Weber Technical College

The dramatic earnings jump at Ogden-Weber Technical College's nursing program—from $24,690 to over $50,000 in just four years—tells a story of early-career positioning rather than program failure. While first-year graduates rank in just the 5th percentile nationally, they're essentially at Utah's median and quickly surpass it. The modest $9,000 debt load, well below both state and national averages, gives graduates financial breathing room during this crucial ramp-up period.

The 104% earnings growth suggests graduates may be starting in certified nursing assistant roles before advancing to licensed practical nurse positions, which explains both the low initial earnings and the subsequent surge. At the state median initially, the program performs right in line with Utah expectations—including nearby Davis Technical College—but the fourth-year earnings vault past typical state outcomes. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 is manageable even in that first lean year.

For families who understand that nursing careers often begin with stepping-stone positions, this program offers an affordable entry point with clear upward mobility. The key is having financial support for that first year when earnings lag behind typical nursing salaries—but graduates who can navigate that period emerge with strong earnings and minimal debt burden.