Median Earnings (1yr)
$82,895
79th percentile (60th in PA)
Median Debt
$27,000
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.33
Manageable
Sample Size
120
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Scranton nursing graduates start strong at nearly $83,000 and climb to $98,000 by year four—earnings that place them well above both the national and Pennsylvania medians for the program. While the school ranks 60th percentile among Pennsylvania's 52 nursing programs, it's worth noting that the state has exceptionally competitive nursing schools at the top. This program still outperforms 60% of in-state options while charging typical debt levels ($27,000) that align precisely with national and state medians.

The 0.33 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates earn back their entire debt in roughly four months of work—a comfortable position for a new nurse. The 18% earnings growth over four years suggests career advancement opportunities, and with such strong starting salaries, the absolute dollar gains are substantial. Pennsylvania has several elite nursing programs commanding slightly higher salaries, but Scranton's combination of above-average earnings and manageable debt creates a reliable pathway into a stable profession.

For families seeking a nursing program that delivers solid outcomes without financial stress, this represents a safe choice. The 84% admission rate makes it accessible, and graduates aren't sacrificing earning potential for that accessibility—they're clearing nearly $100,000 before their fifth year in the field.

Where University of Scranton Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally

University of ScrantonOther registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Scranton graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Scranton graduates earn $83k, placing them in the 79th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (52 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Scranton$82,895$97,897$27,0000.33
Immaculata University$87,624$91,952$35,5930.41
Villanova University$86,241$87,471$27,0000.31
Thomas Jefferson University$85,656$86,217$30,0000.35
Drexel University$85,441$84,218$30,7500.36
La Salle University$84,400$88,296$27,0000.32
National Median$74,888—$27,0000.36

Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Immaculata University
Immaculata
$28,550$87,624$35,593
Villanova University
Villanova
$64,701$86,241$27,000
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia
$45,683$85,656$30,000
Drexel University
Philadelphia
$60,663$85,441$30,750
La Salle University
Philadelphia
$35,570$84,400$27,000

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Scranton, approximately 22% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 120 graduates with reported earnings and 111 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.