Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Portland Community College

Portland Community College's nursing associate program outperforms 86% of similar programs nationally yet sits below the median for Oregon—a telling contrast that reveals the state's exceptionally strong nursing market. While new graduates earn a robust $78,033, that's actually $5,700 below what Oregon nursing grads typically make, and several other Oregon community colleges push graduates past $89,000 in their first year.

The debt picture requires more attention than usual. At $32,000, borrowers here carry 38% more debt than the Oregon median and 54% more than the national average—placing this program in the 10th percentile nationally for affordability. Though the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 remains manageable, comparable Oregon programs achieve similar or better outcomes with substantially less borrowing. Lane and Mt. Hood Community Colleges, for instance, deliver $11,000+ higher starting salaries while keeping debt closer to state norms.

For Oregon families, this creates an unusual calculus: excellent national standing but middling in-state performance at above-average cost. If Portland's location offers specific advantages—proximity to home, clinical placement connections, or scheduling flexibility—the premium might justify itself. But purely on financial metrics, other Oregon community colleges deliver stronger nursing outcomes with less debt burden. The 31% Pell grant population suggests financial aid resources exist, which becomes particularly important given the higher borrowing required here.