Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Holy Cross

Nursing graduates from University of Holy Cross face an unusual challenge: their earnings actually decline after graduation, dropping from $70,806 in year one to $64,221 by year four. This isn't the typical nursing career trajectory, where steadily rising compensation reflects growing experience and responsibility. Combined with $43,500 in debt—substantially higher than Louisiana's median of $28,143 for nursing programs—this creates a financial squeeze that intensifies over time rather than easing.

The program's performance within Louisiana tells the story clearly. Ranking at the 40th percentile statewide, Holy Cross graduates earn roughly $14,000 less annually than the state median, and they trail every comparison program by significant margins. For context, nearby Louisiana State University-Alexandria produces graduates earning $82,919, while even the state median sits at $78,065. This isn't a minor gap in an otherwise strong market—it's a persistent earnings disadvantage in one of nursing's most employable fields.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 remains manageable in year one, but that calculation worsens as salaries decline. For a family considering nursing programs in Louisiana, this particular option combines higher-than-typical debt with below-average earnings that move in the wrong direction. Unless Holy Cross offers unique advantages not captured in these numbers—specialized training, location convenience, or scheduling flexibility—Louisiana families can find stronger financial outcomes at multiple state programs with lower debt burdens and higher earning potential.