Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Rowan College at Burlington County

Rowan College at Burlington County's nursing program produces graduates who earn solidly above the national average but lag behind most New Jersey nursing programs—a critical distinction given the state's high concentration of healthcare opportunities. While first-year earnings of $71,796 clear the national median by $3,400, they fall short of the New Jersey median by nearly $4,000, placing graduates in the 40th percentile statewide. That gap matters: top community college nursing programs in New Jersey are placing graduates into jobs paying $10,000-$20,000 more annually.

The debt load of $21,450 translates to a manageable 0.30 ratio against first-year earnings, and graduates see steady income growth to $78,091 by year four. These fundamentals work, but the value calculation shifts when you realize nearby programs like Ocean County College and Raritan Valley Community College deliver significantly stronger salary outcomes with similar debt levels. For a New Jersey family paying in-state tuition, that earnings differential compounds quickly—we're talking about $40,000-$80,000 in lost income over the first four years compared to stronger state programs.

This program will get your child into nursing and employed, but if they have options among New Jersey community colleges, the data suggests looking at programs placing graduates in higher-paying positions. The difference between 40th and 80th percentile in this state's nursing market is real money.