Practical Nursing at Minnesota State Community and Technical College
with a smaller student body of 2,875 in Fergus Falls, MN.
Program Analysis
Minnesota State Community and Technical College's Practical Nursing program produces graduates earning $39,109/yr — within striking distance of the $44,151 national average for this trade.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 83.0x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Practical Nursing programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Practical Nursing's career paths, with 18% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 17% gap from the optimistic case.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $13,000 in median debt clears fast against $39,109 in annual earnings.
At #210 of 703 Practical Nursing programs, Minnesota State Community and Technical College scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Earnings grow from $39,109 to $47,642 over five years — a 22% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
There are 2 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Practical Nursing, including Nurse, Licensed Practical (median $62,340/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
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 Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.