Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at West Coast University-Texas
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
West Coast University-Texas delivers exceptional nursing graduate outcomes that justify its premium price point. With median first-year earnings of $95,859, graduates earn nearly $20,000 more than the typical Texas nursing program and rank in the 95th percentile nationally—placing this among the top nursing programs in the country. Among Texas's 73 nursing programs, this ranks in the 80th percentile, competing directly with University of Houston-Clear Lake and other top-tier programs.
The debt picture tells an equally compelling story. At $38,145, student debt is higher than typical nursing programs but sits in just the 7th percentile nationally for debt levels, meaning 93% of nursing programs saddle students with more debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 is excellent—graduates earn more than twice their debt in their first year alone. This is particularly impressive given that 52% of students receive Pell grants, indicating the program successfully serves lower-income students without compromising outcomes.
The modest 3% earnings growth from year one to four suggests graduates start at premium salaries that reflect market value rather than requiring years to reach competitive pay. For families willing to invest in a higher-cost program, this represents one of the strongest nursing education value propositions in Texas, delivering both exceptional starting salaries and manageable debt loads.
Where West Coast University-Texas 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 West Coast University-Texas graduates compare to all programs nationally
West Coast University-Texas graduates earn $96k, placing them in the 95th 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 Texas
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (73 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Coast University-Texas | $95,859 | $98,869 | $38,145 | 0.40 |
| University of Houston-Clear Lake | $93,001 | — | — | — |
| Baptist Health System School of Health Professions | $91,456 | — | $43,010 | 0.47 |
| Austin Community College District | $88,105 | — | — | — |
| Texas A&M University-Central Texas | $88,036 | — | $22,750 | 0.26 |
| Schreiner University | $86,950 | $80,357 | $29,706 | 0.34 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Houston-Clear Lake Houston | $7,746 | $93,001 | — |
| Baptist Health System School of Health Professions San Antonio | $14,675 | $91,456 | $43,010 |
| Austin Community College District Austin | $2,550 | $88,105 | — |
| Texas A&M University-Central Texas Killeen | $6,627 | $88,036 | $22,750 |
| Schreiner University Kerrville | $37,396 | $86,950 | $29,706 |
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 West Coast University-Texas, approximately 52% 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 3430 graduates with reported earnings and 3876 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.