Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Temple University

Temple's nursing graduates start strong at over $82,000—well above both national and Pennsylvania medians—but that's essentially where the story ends. Earnings remain flat after four years, suggesting early career momentum stalls. Among Pennsylvania's 52 nursing programs, Temple lands solidly in the middle at the 60th percentile, trailing regional competitors like Villanova, Drexel, and Thomas Jefferson by $3,000-$5,000 annually. That gap compounds over a career.

The $26,000 debt load is manageable and slightly below state averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 that works in graduates' favor. With a robust sample size of 100+ graduates, these figures are reliable indicators of typical outcomes. The real question is whether Temple's urban Philadelphia location and professional network compensate for the earnings plateau, especially since nearby alternatives show continued salary growth through year four.

For Pennsylvania families, Temple delivers solid initial placement—you're clearing $80,000 right out of school—but this isn't the program that will push your child into the top tier of nursing earners. If they're considering Temple primarily for affordability and strong early employment, the value proposition holds. If maximizing long-term earnings potential matters more, programs like Villanova or Drexel warrant serious consideration despite potentially higher sticker prices.