Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton

Here's a puzzling pattern: UACC-Morrilton nursing graduates start strong at $67,748—beating the Arkansas median and landing right at the national average—but see earnings drop 15% by year four to $57,474. That's unusual for nursing, where steady employment and experience typically lead to raises, not pay cuts. Among Arkansas's 27 nursing programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, putting it in the middle of the pack statewide while the state's top programs show graduates earning $70,000-$78,000 by year four.

The debt load of $18,565 is reasonable, slightly below both state and national medians, which keeps the initial debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.27. For students from the region—43% receive Pell grants—that's an accessible entry point into nursing. However, the earnings decline means that what looks like a solid financial position at graduation becomes tighter by year four. This could reflect graduates moving into different nursing roles, working part-time, or local labor market conditions in central Arkansas limiting advancement opportunities.

If your child plans to stay in the Morrilton area, understand that this program provides entry into nursing at a fair price, but career growth may require relocating to larger Arkansas markets or pursuing additional credentials. The open admission policy makes it accessible, but investigate why earnings dip rather than climb—that's the critical question for long-term value.