Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Weber State University

Weber State's nursing program costs significantly less than typical nursing programs—graduating with just $13,670 in debt versus the Utah median of $17,828—but earnings tell a more complex story. At $61,785 first-year out, graduates earn roughly $2,000 below Utah's median and $6,600 below the national benchmark. More concerning, earnings actually slip to $60,321 by year four, suggesting graduates may struggle to advance or find higher-paying positions compared to peers from other programs.

Within Utah's nursing landscape, Weber State sits squarely in the middle—ranking at the 40th percentile among the state's 11 nursing programs. Graduates earn notably less than those from Nightingale College ($67,093) or even Salt Lake Community College ($64,223), though the debt advantage helps offset some of this gap. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 means graduates can theoretically pay off loans in under three months of work, which provides financial breathing room even if career progression lags.

For families prioritizing minimal debt over maximum earnings potential, this program delivers a functional nursing credential without financial strain. However, if your child aims to maximize earning power or pursue leadership roles in nursing, the combination of below-median starting salaries and flat earnings trajectory suggests other Utah programs might better support those ambitions. The low debt makes this a relatively safe bet, but not necessarily the strongest investment.