Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Southeast Community College Area

Southeast Community College Area's nursing program stands out immediately for what happens *after* that first year. While graduates earn a strong $71,239 initially—beating both Nebraska's median ($63,938) and the national average ($68,409)—earnings drop to $65,214 by year four. That's an 8% decline during years when most nurses see steady income growth.

The drop matters because it suggests graduates may be concentrated in entry-level positions that don't lead to typical career advancement. At 60th percentile among Nebraska nursing programs, this program sits squarely in the middle of the pack statewide, trailing Metropolitan Community College's graduates by about $3,600 in starting earnings. The debt load of $25,814 is higher than both state and national medians, though the ratio to first-year earnings (0.36) remains manageable for healthcare.

For families choosing among Nebraska's community college nursing programs, this represents a solid but not exceptional option. Your child will likely start with competitive pay, but the earnings trajectory raises questions about whether graduates are developing the specialized skills or advancing into supervisory roles that typically drive nurse compensation upward. If Metropolitan Community College is accessible, its stronger earnings record warrants consideration. Otherwise, this program delivers reasonable nursing employment outcomes, just without the career momentum you'd hope to see.