Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Tri-Rivers Career Center

Tri-Rivers Career Center offers a solid entry point into practical nursing with notably manageable debt—$14,911 versus the Ohio median of $16,364—and first-year earnings of $44,837 that place graduates in the 60th percentile among Ohio programs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 means graduates carry just four months of annual salary in debt, a comfortable burden for a healthcare credential. With nearly a quarter of students receiving Pell grants, this program appears to serve working-class students effectively.

The modest earnings trajectory tells an important story: graduates earn $44,837 in year one and $46,894 by year four, just 5% growth over that period. This reflects the reality of practical nursing as a stable, entry-level position rather than a launching pad for dramatic salary increases. While top Ohio programs like Cincinnati State produce graduates earning $10,000 more annually, Tri-Rivers still outperforms most competitors at a lower debt load. For students prioritizing quick workforce entry and minimal borrowing, this tradeoff favors Tri-Rivers.

The takeaway: If your child wants healthcare work without pursuing a bachelor's degree, this program delivers steady employment at a price that won't create financial stress. Just understand the salary ceiling—advancement typically requires further education.