Nursing at Lake Area Technical College
a compact campus enrolling 1,710 students in Watertown, SD.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $66,233/yr, roughly in line with the $69,474 national median for Nursing. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
With a 53.3x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 3% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Nursing career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
With first-year pay of $66,233 far exceeding the $18,707 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
A #675 ranking among 947 Nursing programs places Lake Area Technical College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
For students considering alternatives, 4 registered apprenticeship programs align with 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 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
See the full career breakdown for Nursing — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from Lake Area Technical College and 946 other schools.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Lake Area Technical College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.