Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Strayer University-Tennessee

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.