Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at St Clair County Community College

St Clair County Community College's nursing program launches graduates into solid first-year earnings of $50,656—beating the national median by 15% and landing in the 77th percentile nationwide. That's a strong start with manageable debt of just under $16,000, meaning graduates need only about four months of earnings to cover their educational investment. Within Michigan's competitive nursing landscape, the program ranks in the 60th percentile, which is respectable though several community colleges achieve notably higher outcomes.

The concern here is the earnings trajectory: by year four, median pay drops to $47,126, a 7% decline that runs counter to typical career progression. This pattern suggests graduates may be hitting a ceiling in their LPN roles or facing local labor market constraints in the Port Huron area. However, even with this dip, four-year earnings still exceed the state median, and the low debt burden means graduates aren't financially trapped if they choose to pursue RN credentials later.

For families considering this program, the math works if your child plans to use it as either a stable career in the region or a stepping stone to further nursing education. The relatively low debt preserves options, and that first-year salary provides immediate financial stability. Just understand that career advancement likely requires additional credentials rather than relying on time-in-role to boost earnings.