Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Rasmussen University-North Dakota

This Rasmussen nursing program delivers solid immediate earning power but shows concerning long-term stagnation. Graduates earn $68,119 right out of the gate—ranking in the 60th percentile among North Dakota nursing programs and just below the national median. However, earnings actually decline slightly by year four, which is unusual for healthcare careers that typically see steady growth.

The financial package is actually quite attractive. At $30,500 in median debt, students borrow significantly more than the national average ($20,751) but substantially less than what's typical in North Dakota ($27,822). The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off loans within a manageable timeframe. With 46% of students receiving Pell grants, the program appears accessible to middle and lower-income families.

The lack of earnings growth raises questions about career trajectory and advancement opportunities for graduates. While other North Dakota programs like Dakota College at Bottineau show higher starting salaries, Rasmussen's immediate earning potential still places it competitively in the state market. For families prioritizing quick entry into a stable, well-paying healthcare career with manageable debt, this program works—but don't expect significant salary increases without additional education or specialization.