Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Pasco-Hernando State College

Pasco-Hernando State College's nursing program hits 60th percentile among Florida's 73 nursing programs—a solid middle-tier showing in one of the nation's most competitive nursing education markets. With graduates earning $67,069 in their first year, you're looking at roughly $2,400 more than the typical Florida nursing associate degree holder earns, though about $1,300 below the national median. The debt picture particularly stands out: at $16,000, graduates carry nearly $10,000 less debt than Florida's median, making this program 38% cheaper than comparable in-state options.

The modest earnings decline to $65,400 by year four deserves context. Many associate degree nurses use these early years to gain experience before pursuing higher credentials or specialized roles, so flat or slightly declining initial earnings don't necessarily signal a ceiling. What matters more is the financial foundation: that 0.24 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can clear their loans within three months of salary—excellent compared to most college programs. The program serves a substantial Pell grant population while maintaining strong employment outcomes.

For Florida families seeking affordable entry into nursing, this program delivers exactly what an associate degree should: manageable debt, immediate earning power above $65,000, and a credential that opens doors to both employment and further education. You're trading access to the very top earnings tier for financial safety and solid career prospects.