Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital School of Nursing

Signature Healthcare's nursing diploma program hits a sweet spot that value-conscious parents should appreciate: graduates earn $3,000 above the national median while carrying $7,500 *less* debt than typical nursing programs nationwide. That 0.39 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning graduates owe just five months' salary—is exceptional for healthcare training.

The Massachusetts context adds nuance. While first-year earnings of $69,052 match the state median exactly (60th percentile among seven MA nursing programs), graduates here borrow significantly more than the state median of $19,152. This suggests other Massachusetts nursing programs may offer better financial aid packages, though none appear in the top-tier comparison data. Still, the absolute debt level remains manageable, and the program serves a substantial portion of Pell-eligible students (37%), indicating accessibility for middle-income families.

The modest 5% earnings growth to $72,346 by year four is typical for nursing, where strong entry-level wages leave less room for dramatic increases early in a career. Given nursing's stability, benefits, and schedule flexibility—plus the relatively low debt burden here—this diploma delivers what it promises: quick entry into a solid profession without the financial weight of a four-year degree. For students certain about nursing, this practical path makes economic sense.