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

Pickens Technical College graduates are earning $53,360 one year out—roughly $13,000 more than the typical Colorado nursing assistant program and $9,200 above the national median. That 80th percentile ranking among Colorado programs means only a handful of schools in the state produce stronger early outcomes, though notably Otero and Morgan Community College post significantly higher numbers.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $11,000, translating to a 0.21 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests manageable monthly payments relative to starting income. This debt load sits slightly below both state and national medians, though it does rank in the 73rd percentile nationally—meaning there are cheaper options available if cost is the primary concern.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift considerably with a larger sample. That said, the combination of above-average earnings, below-average debt, and a one-third Pell grant population (indicating the program serves students with financial need) suggests Pickens is delivering solid outcomes. For a parent weighing Colorado nursing programs, this sits comfortably in the upper tier without the premium price tag of some competitors.