Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Wayne Community College

First-year earnings of $61,774 land this program in the bottom fifth nationally for nursing associates degrees, and the complete absence of earnings growth over four years raises red flags. Similar programs in North Carolina typically carry about $14,100 in debt—a manageable burden for most nursing careers—but when paired with these below-market wages and flat progression, the value picture shifts considerably. Other community college nursing programs across the state are producing graduates who earn $10,000-$15,000 more from day one.

What's particularly concerning is the stagnation. Most nurses see earnings climb as they gain experience and specialize, but graduates from comparable programs here appear stuck at the same salary four years later. This could signal limited advancement opportunities in the local Goldsboro healthcare market, difficulties in transitioning to higher-paying roles, or workforce conditions that cap earnings regardless of tenure.

The debt itself won't sink anyone—at 23 cents per dollar earned, it's reasonable for an entry-level healthcare credential. But your child would be starting $6,000 behind peers at stronger NC nursing programs while facing an uncertain path to salary growth. If Wayne Community College is the only realistic option geographically, nursing still beats most two-year degrees. If your student can access programs at Robeson, Stanly, or Johnston instead, the $15,000 earnings advantage compounds significantly over a career.