Practical Nursing at Gaston College
a smaller institution with 3,359 students in Dallas, NC.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $42,358/yr, roughly in line with the $44,151 national median for Practical Nursing. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 198.2x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI exposure is significant at 18% of job tasks, producing a 31% spread between best and worst-case decade earnings. The field isn't immune to disruption.
Ranked #94 out of 703 programs, Gaston College's Practical Nursing program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $42,358 to $59,459 shows 40% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Practical Nursing connects to 2 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
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 Gaston College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.