Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at St. Peter's Hospital College of Nursing

St. Peter's Hospital College of Nursing graduates command immediate earning power that puts them well above the national median, but the earnings trajectory deserves close attention. First-year nurses from this program earn $74,687—outpacing 78% of nursing associate programs nationally. However, by year four, median earnings slip to $69,377, a 7% decline that's unusual in a field where experience typically increases value.

The debt picture offers some consolation: at $26,487, it's lower than many NY nursing programs and represents just 35% of first-year earnings—manageable by any standard. Within New York's competitive nursing landscape, this program sits at the 60th percentile, meaning graduates earn more than most NY nursing associates but trail programs like Cochran School ($102,553) and CUNY Hostos ($97,888) by significant margins. That gap matters in a state where nursing wages vary widely and location often determines compensation.

For families prioritizing quick career entry with reasonable debt, St. Peter's delivers on the fundamentals. But the earnings decline suggests graduates may need to be strategic about career advancement—pursuing certifications, specialized units, or supervisory roles—to maintain earning power as they gain experience. If your child plans to stay in the Albany area long-term, research whether local healthcare systems reward tenure, or whether the initial salary represents a ceiling rather than a floor.