Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Unitek College

California's nursing market is exceptionally strong, and comparable bachelor's programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $100,589—well above the national median of $74,888. That's the good news for parents considering Unitek College's nursing program. The challenge is the estimated debt load of $38,145, which is roughly $13,000 higher than what students typically carry at other California nursing programs.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 sits in manageable territory, meaning graduates would owe about five months of salary. But it's worth noting that several California State University campuses produce nursing graduates earning $119,000 to $125,000 with presumably lower debt burdens at public tuition rates. The premium Unitek charges needs to deliver something extra—perhaps faster completion, flexible scheduling, or better clinical placements—to justify the additional borrowing.

For families where the student needs a private college option and California's competitive nursing market makes employment likely, the numbers could work. Just recognize you're paying more upfront than at most alternatives, so you'll want to verify that Unitek's specific strengths—whether that's program pace, location convenience, or job placement support—align with your child's situation enough to offset the higher cost.