Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Scranton
Bachelor's Degree
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
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)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Scranton | $82,895 | $97,897 | $27,000 | 0.33 |
| Immaculata University | $87,624 | $91,952 | $35,593 | 0.41 |
| Villanova University | $86,241 | $87,471 | $27,000 | 0.31 |
| Thomas Jefferson University | $85,656 | $86,217 | $30,000 | 0.35 |
| Drexel University | $85,441 | $84,218 | $30,750 | 0.36 |
| La Salle University | $84,400 | $88,296 | $27,000 | 0.32 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (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.