Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at St Louis College of Health Careers-Fenton

The earnings trajectory here tells a troubling story: graduates start below the Missouri median and then see their income drop 26% by year four, falling to just $29,344. This isn't the typical pattern for nursing programs, where earnings generally hold steady or grow as professionals gain experience. Among Missouri's 33 practical nursing programs, this ranks at only the 40th percentile—meaning most alternatives in the state deliver better outcomes. Top Missouri programs like North Central Missouri College and Mineral Area College place graduates earning $55,000-60,000 annually, nearly double what St. Louis College of Health Careers alumni make by year four.

The debt picture compounds the problem. At $24,434, graduates carry 64% more debt than the Missouri median for this field. While the debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio of 0.62 appears manageable initially, it becomes less tenable as earnings decline. The school serves a predominantly Pell-eligible student population (60%) with open admissions, suggesting it's accessible to students who may have limited options—but accessibility doesn't justify these outcomes when Missouri offers dozens of alternatives with stronger earning potential and lower debt burdens.

For families considering this program, the evidence is clear: Missouri has substantially better practical nursing options. Before committing here, examine the community colleges and career centers in your area that consistently produce stronger wage outcomes.