Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Murfreesboro

Similar practical nursing programs across Tennessee typically produce graduates earning around $45,000 in their first year, and this Murfreesboro program's estimated $51,744 aligns more closely with the national median—suggesting stronger outcomes than the state average. While both the earnings and debt figures here are drawn from comparable programs nationally, the estimated debt load of $18,241 appears manageable, translating to a 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio that puts monthly payments well within reach for most nursing assistants and LPNs.

What gives this particular estimate credibility is that it tracks with Tennessee's established nursing market. The state's one program with reported data shows earnings at $45,301, and with LPN demand consistently strong in the Nashville metro area, the higher national estimate isn't implausible. The estimated debt also sits below both state and national medians for these programs, which matters considerably for a credential aimed at getting students into the workforce quickly.

For parents considering this investment, the math works if the earnings estimate holds—you're looking at roughly one-third of first-year income going toward debt, not half or more. The real question is whether this specific technical college's placement and regional employer connections can deliver on that $51,744 figure rather than the lower statewide average. Ask the school directly about actual graduate outcomes and where their students are finding work.