Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Western Nevada College
Associate's Degree
Analysis
Western Nevada College's nursing program delivers first-year earnings of $82,312—nearly $14,000 above the national median and placing graduates in the 95th percentile nationally. With debt under $20,000, new nurses face payments equivalent to just three months of salary, creating an exceptionally manageable financial picture. This is one of the strongest debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find in nursing education.
The Nevada context matters here. While this program ranks at the 60th percentile statewide, that's actually a positive indicator—it means Nevada nursing programs generally pay well, and Western Nevada holds its own among them. The state's median earnings for nursing graduates already exceeds $80,000, reflecting strong demand and competitive wages across Nevada's healthcare market. Western Nevada's graduates essentially match the state benchmark while paying less in debt than the state average.
The slight earnings dip to $79,779 by year four isn't cause for alarm in nursing. Many RNs switch between hospital systems or shift to different specialties early in their careers, and these transitions can temporarily affect pay. What matters is the strong starting position: your child would graduate with excellent earnings potential and minimal debt burden, positioning them well whether they stay in Nevada or pursue opportunities elsewhere in a field with robust nationwide demand.
Where Western Nevada College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing associates'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 Western Nevada College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Western Nevada College graduates earn $82k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing associates 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 Nevada
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing associates's programs at peer institutions in Nevada (6 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Nevada College | $82,312 | $79,779 | $19,897 | 0.24 |
| Carrington College-Reno | $82,838 | $78,912 | $32,500 | 0.39 |
| Truckee Meadows Community College | $80,518 | $77,156 | $18,100 | 0.22 |
| College of Southern Nevada | $77,082 | $80,225 | $13,125 | 0.17 |
| Las Vegas College | $75,561 | $88,950 | $32,167 | 0.43 |
| National Median | $68,409 | — | $20,751 | 0.30 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Nevada
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Nevada schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carrington College-Reno Reno | — | $82,838 | $32,500 |
| Truckee Meadows Community College Reno | $3,144 | $80,518 | $18,100 |
| College of Southern Nevada Las Vegas | $4,110 | $77,082 | $13,125 |
| Las Vegas College Las Vegas | $17,684 | $75,561 | $32,167 |
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 Western Nevada College, approximately 18% 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 54 graduates with reported earnings and 54 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.