Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Regis University

Regis University's nursing program produces graduates who earn slightly above both national and Colorado medians right out of school, but the earnings trajectory tells a more complex story. At $76,736 in first-year earnings, graduates outperform the national median of $74,888 and Colorado's $74,906, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. However, earnings actually decline to $73,450 by year four—unusual in a field where experience typically drives salary growth.

The debt burden is manageable at $29,427, creating a reasonable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 that sits below national averages. Among Colorado's 18 nursing programs, Regis falls solidly in the middle tier, trailing top performers like Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs ($87,579) but remaining competitive with established programs like UC Denver. The program's 87% admission rate suggests accessibility, though only 26% of students receive Pell grants.

For parents, this represents a steady if unspectacular nursing investment. The moderate debt load and above-average starting salaries provide financial security, but the earnings decline warrants attention—it could reflect regional market dynamics or career path differences among graduates. While not the state's top nursing program, Regis offers reliable preparation for a stable career field with reasonable financial outcomes.