Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Rockland County BOCES-Practical Nursing Program

Rockland County BOCES graduates earn $60,114 in their first year—36% above the national median and solidly within the top quintile of New York nursing programs. At 80th percentile statewide, this program punches above its weight in a competitive market, particularly impressive given that 56% of students receive Pell grants. The $11,600 debt load, while slightly higher than the state median, translates to a very manageable 0.19 debt-to-earnings ratio—graduates can expect to earn more than five times their debt in their first year alone.

The concerning pattern is the earnings decline to $53,978 by year four. While still well above state and national benchmarks, this 10% drop likely reflects the inherent ceiling in LPN compensation rather than a program weakness. New York's healthcare market pays premium wages early, but LPNs face limited advancement without returning for RN credentials. That said, even with this dip, four-year earnings remain 20% above what typical graduates earn nationally.

For families seeking affordable entry into healthcare, this represents one of the stronger pathways in New York. Your child gets competitive starting wages at a fraction of the cost and time of a traditional four-year degree. Just recognize that career growth will likely require further education—this certificate opens doors but doesn't unlock the top floor.