Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Rasmussen University-Illinois

This nursing program delivers solid starting salaries but with concerning stagnation and higher-than-average debt. Graduates earn $68,119 in their first year—nearly matching the national average and ranking in the 60th percentile among Illinois nursing programs. However, earnings actually decline slightly by year four, showing zero growth over time, which is unusual for healthcare careers that typically see steady advancement.

The debt picture presents a mixed story. At $30,500, graduates carry significantly more debt than both the national average ($20,751) and Illinois median ($14,500) for nursing programs, though the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 remains manageable. This debt burden becomes more concerning when compared to Illinois community colleges like Moraine Valley ($73,137 earnings) or College of Lake County ($72,472 earnings), which likely offer similar programs at much lower cost.

While this program produces competent nurses who find employment quickly, the combination of flat earnings growth and above-average debt suggests you're paying a premium without clear long-term benefits. Illinois community colleges consistently outperform this program on both earnings and debt metrics. Unless location convenience is paramount, exploring these community college alternatives could provide your child with better financial outcomes and less debt burden.