Practical Nursing at Dakota County Technical College
a smaller institution with 2,083 students in Rosemount, MN.
Program Analysis
Dakota County Technical College's Practical Nursing graduates start at $48,973/yr — above the $44,151 national average, though not by a wide margin.
With a 94.4x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 16% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Practical Nursing career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $9,500 in median debt clears fast against $48,973 in annual earnings.
Dakota County Technical College ranks #109 among 703 Practical Nursing programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 21% earnings increase from $48,973 to $59,047 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
For students considering alternatives, 2 registered apprenticeship programs align with Practical Nursing careers — offering paid training instead of tuition costs.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Practical Nursing graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses | $62,340 | +2.6% | 75% |
| Nursing assistants | $39,530 | +2.3% | 90% |
About Practical Nursing Careers
Your career begins on the front lines of patient care as a nursing assistant. In a hospital or long-term care facility, your active days will be spent helping patients with essential tasks like bathing, eating, and moving safely. You’ll be a vital part of the medical team, taking blood pressure and temperature and serving as the eyes and ears for the supervising nurses.
Compare & Explore
Practical Nursing Overview
Practical Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Dakota County Technical College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.