Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Pearl River Community College

Pearl River Community College's practical nursing program starts students $4,200 above Mississippi's median for this credential—landing in the 60th percentile statewide—but graduates see their earnings decline by 7% over four years rather than grow. That first-year salary of $42,177 against just $14,890 in debt creates a manageable 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe roughly four months of income. However, falling to $39,026 by year four suggests limited advancement opportunities or shifts to lower-paying positions, which is unusual in healthcare fields where experience typically commands higher wages.

This pattern matters because LPN roles should offer steady income growth through shift differentials, additional certifications, or moves into higher-acuity settings. The earnings drop raises questions about whether graduates are finding full-time work or advancing professionally. While the program costs less than most alternatives and outperforms the state median initially, it trails programs like Mississippi Delta and Hinds by about $3,000 in year one—a gap that widens as earnings decline.

For families prioritizing quick entry into healthcare with minimal debt, this program delivers low financial risk. But parents should understand their child may need a plan for career progression—whether pursuing RN credentials or specializing in areas like pediatrics or geriatrics—to see meaningful income growth beyond that first year.