Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Williston State College

Practical nursing programs in North Dakota typically produce lower first-year earnings than the national average, with the state median at $41,956 compared to $51,744 nationally. Williston State's estimated figures align with national benchmarks rather than state ones—a significant distinction in a field where location heavily influences compensation. The estimated $18,241 debt load is actually lower than both state and national medians, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 that suggests manageable repayment regardless of which earnings figure proves more accurate.

The challenge here is substantial uncertainty. North Dakota State College of Science—the only in-state program with reported data—shows graduates earning $41,956, a full $10,000 below the national figure being used for Williston's estimate. If Williston's outcomes track closer to state norms, that changes the financial picture considerably, though the relatively modest debt keeps the program from becoming prohibitively expensive either way. Healthcare workforce demands in North Dakota's oil region could justify higher compensation than other parts of the state, but that's speculation.

For parents, the lower debt estimate is encouraging, but recognize you're making this decision with limited visibility into actual outcomes. If your child can secure employment in higher-paying markets or facilities, the investment pencils out well. If they're staying in North Dakota at typical wages, expect a tighter but still workable financial return.