Median Earnings (1yr)
$77,635
61st percentile (60th in GA)
Median Debt
$41,815
55% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.54
Manageable
Sample Size
1002
Adequate data

Analysis

South University-Savannah Online's nursing program delivers solid earnings that outperform national averages, with graduates earning $77,635 in their first year compared to the national median of $74,888. However, this program sits squarely in the middle pack among Georgia's 37 nursing programs, ranking at the 60th percentile statewide. The real standout feature is the debt picture—with median debt of $41,815, this program ranks in the 5th percentile nationally for debt levels, meaning 95% of nursing programs nationwide leave students with more debt.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54 is reasonable for healthcare education, and the fact that 76% of students receive Pell grants suggests the program serves many first-generation and lower-income students who successfully transition into well-paying careers. However, the virtually flat earnings growth (+1% from year 1 to year 4) is concerning and suggests limited advancement potential compared to other nursing programs where experience typically drives meaningful salary increases.

While this program produces employed nurses earning decent wages, it doesn't crack Georgia's top tier—graduates at East Georgia State College and Georgia Highlands earn about $7,000 more annually. For families prioritizing debt management, this is a solid choice, but those seeking maximum earning potential might consider the higher-performing in-state alternatives.

Where South University-Savannah Online Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally

South University-Savannah OnlineOther registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How South University-Savannah Online graduates compare to all programs nationally

South University-Savannah Online graduates earn $78k, placing them in the 61th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (37 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
South University-Savannah Online$77,635$78,626$41,8150.54
East Georgia State College$84,669—$19,0310.22
Georgia Highlands College$83,986—$16,0440.19
Chamberlain University-Georgia$83,188$81,995$39,1460.47
Clayton State University$82,714$84,778$37,7830.46
Reinhardt University$81,266—$30,2750.37
National Median$74,888—$27,0000.36

Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Georgia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
East Georgia State College
Swainsboro
$2,736$84,669$19,031
Georgia Highlands College
Rome
$2,944$83,986$16,044
Chamberlain University-Georgia
Sandy Springs
$19,686$83,188$39,146
Clayton State University
Morrow
$5,068$82,714$37,783
Reinhardt University
Waleska
$28,420$81,266$30,275

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At South University-Savannah Online, approximately 76% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 1002 graduates with reported earnings and 1234 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.