Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Strayer University-Tennessee
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Strayer University-Tennessee's nursing program produces graduates earning $81,061 right out of the gate—significantly above both the state median ($67,094) and roughly $6,000 more than most Tennessee nursing programs. At the 60th percentile statewide, it outperforms established names like University of Memphis and UT-Martin, despite serving a predominantly Pell-eligible student body (86%).
The $34,040 debt load is higher than Tennessee's typical $26,872, but the strong earnings justify it. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42, graduates owe roughly five months of their first-year salary—manageable for nursing where demand remains strong. Nationally, this debt level sits in the 17th percentile, meaning only 17% of nursing programs nationwide carry lower debt, which contextualizes the premium. You're essentially paying more for outcomes that place in the top quartile nationally and clearly above average in Tennessee.
For families concerned about return on investment, particularly those relying on federal aid, this program delivers. The earnings advantage over typical Tennessee nursing graduates ($14,000 annually) compounds over a career, and the debt remains proportional to income. The moderate sample size suggests consistent outcomes across cohorts. If your student wants nursing credentials that translate to above-average pay in Tennessee's healthcare market, the higher debt here buys tangible results.
Where Strayer University-Tennessee Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
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 Strayer University-Tennessee graduates compare to all programs nationally
Strayer University-Tennessee graduates earn $81k, placing them in the 75th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (32 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strayer University-Tennessee | $81,061 | — | $34,040 | 0.42 |
| Galen Health Institutes-Nashville Campus | $76,234 | $82,003 | $45,775 | 0.60 |
| Baptist Health Sciences University | $74,962 | $66,408 | $47,500 | 0.63 |
| University of Memphis | $73,680 | $64,251 | $27,168 | 0.37 |
| The University of Tennessee-Martin | $71,727 | $65,594 | $25,231 | 0.35 |
| Bethel University | $71,315 | — | $25,000 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Tennessee
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Tennessee schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galen Health Institutes-Nashville Campus Nashville | $16,400 | $76,234 | $45,775 |
| Baptist Health Sciences University Memphis | $13,846 | $74,962 | $47,500 |
| University of Memphis Memphis | $10,344 | $73,680 | $27,168 |
| The University of Tennessee-Martin Martin | $10,208 | $71,727 | $25,231 |
| Bethel University McKenzie | $18,168 | $71,315 | $25,000 |
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 Strayer University-Tennessee, approximately 86% 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 39 graduates with reported earnings and 53 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.