Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at South Georgia State College

South Georgia State College's nursing program shows a troubling pattern: graduates earn nearly $70,000 in their first year—slightly above the national average—but see their salaries drop to $59,000 by year four. That's a 15% decline when most nursing careers show steady growth. Among Georgia's 31 nursing programs, this ranks at the 40th percentile, meaning three-fifths of comparable in-state programs deliver better outcomes. The state's top performers like Chattahoochee Technical College show graduates earning $86,000+ within a year, suggesting stronger clinical connections or training quality elsewhere.

The debt load of $18,500 is manageable relative to first-year earnings, creating a debt-to-income ratio of 0.26—well within sustainable range. However, that metric becomes less reassuring when earnings drop so dramatically. By year four, you're looking at a higher effective debt burden relative to actual pay. For context, the state median debt is only slightly higher at $19,166, yet those programs typically maintain or grow earnings over time.

For families weighing in-state options, this program's combination of below-median state performance and backwards earnings trajectory suggests looking harder at alternatives. Georgia nursing students have 30 other programs to consider, many delivering stronger financial outcomes at similar debt levels. Unless geography or specific circumstances make South Georgia State the only viable option, exploring programs in the state's top half would likely serve graduates better long-term.