Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at San Jacinto Community College

San Jacinto Community College's nursing program sits in an unusual spot: solid earnings above the national average, but below the state median where it matters most. While graduates earn $71,118 in their first year—about $2,700 more than nursing associates nationally—that same number falls $370 below what Texas nursing grads typically make. Among Texas nursing programs, this ranks only in the 40th percentile, meaning three out of five peer programs in-state deliver better outcomes.

The financial math works regardless. At $13,000 in debt—less than half the national average for nursing programs—graduates face just two months of earnings to cover their educational investment. That 0.18 debt-to-earnings ratio is exceptional, making this accessible even for students who need to borrow. The 6% earnings bump to $75,580 by year four suggests stable career progression, if not spectacular growth.

The bottom line: This is a low-risk path to nursing credentials, particularly for students prioritizing affordability over maximum earning potential. You're trading about $5,000 annually compared to top Texas programs like El Paso Community College or Weatherford College, but you're also avoiding significant debt. For students who need to work close to home in the Houston metro or value minimal borrowing, that's a reasonable tradeoff.