Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Paul D Camp Community College

Paul D Camp Community College's nursing program launches graduates into solid starting salaries—$68,422 in the first year—with relatively modest debt of $16,612. That puts graduates in a strong position from day one, with a debt burden that represents just three months of earnings. However, this program sits in the 40th percentile among Virginia nursing programs, meaning six in ten Virginia community colleges deliver better outcomes. When you compare it to Northern Virginia Community College ($72,905) or Southside College of Health Sciences ($75,357), the $5,000-7,000 annual earnings gap adds up to real money over a nursing career.

The slight earnings decline from year one to year four—dropping to $66,133—is unusual for nursing, where most graduates see steady wage growth as they gain experience and certifications. This pattern warrants attention: are graduates remaining in lower-paying rural healthcare settings, or does this reflect limited advancement opportunities in the region?

For families in the Franklin area prioritizing convenience and low debt, this program delivers adequate preparation for nursing employment at a manageable cost. But if your child can commute to one of Virginia's stronger nursing programs without significantly increasing living expenses, the higher earnings trajectory would likely justify the extra travel time. The question isn't whether this program works—it does—but whether it's the best available option within reasonable reach.