Nursing at Highland Community College
with a smaller student body of 926 in Freeport, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $62,499 track close to the $69,474 national median for Nursing programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
The 73.8x 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 risk is moderate — 39% task exposure — and the 6% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Nursing graduates.
At $12,786 in median debt against $62,499 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #534 out of 947 programs, Highland Community College's financial outcomes for Nursing trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $62,499 to $68,531 over five years (10% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
Nursing connects to 4 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 Nursing graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse anesthetists | $223,210 | +8.6% | 83% |
| Nurse practitioners | $129,210 | +40.1% | 52% |
| Nurse midwives | $128,790 | +11.1% | 61% |
Nursing Career Guide
What can you do with a Nursing credential from Highland Community College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Highland Community College
Considering a 4-Year Degree Instead?
Compare how bachelor's degree graduates fare on earnings, ROI, and AI resilience.