Practical Nursing at Des Moines Area Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 10,406 in Ankeny, IA.
Program Analysis
Des Moines Area Community College's Practical Nursing graduates start at $34,390/yr, trailing the $44,151 national average by 22%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
With a 107.0x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Practical Nursing carry above-average AI exposure (18% of tasks). The 40% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
A #204 ranking among 703 Practical Nursing programs places Des Moines Area Community College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
The $34,390-to-$60,470 earnings arc over five years reflects a 76% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
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 Des Moines Area Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.