Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Truckee Meadows Community College

Truckee Meadows Community College graduates leave with immediately impressive salaries—$80,518 in the first year, placing them in the 92nd percentile nationally. That's $12,000 above the national median for associate-level nursing programs and represents exceptional early-career outcomes. The $18,100 in median debt is manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.22. However, within Nevada's competitive nursing market, this program sits at the state median, with Carrington College-Reno and Western Nevada College graduates earning slightly more.

The one wrinkle: earnings dip to $77,156 by year four, a 4% decline that bucks the typical career trajectory. This could reflect graduates moving into less lucrative shifts, transitioning to part-time work, or leaving acute care settings. It's worth noting, though, that even these later earnings remain substantially above the national median. For a community college program, the combination of low debt and strong starting pay creates a favorable financial picture, even if earnings don't grow in the first few years.

For families looking at nursing programs in Nevada, this remains a solid choice—particularly given the manageable debt load. The immediate earning potential covers the investment quickly, and graduates enter the workforce at competitive salaries. Just be aware that this program launches graduates into strong starting positions rather than rapid salary growth.