Practical Nursing at Northshore Technical Community College
with a smaller student body of 2,156 in Lacombe, LA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $38,643/yr, roughly in line with the $44,151 national median for Practical Nursing. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 104.1x 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.
With only 18% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, the scenario spread is tight at 8%. Career paths for Practical Nursing are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.
With first-year pay of $38,643 far exceeding the $13,000 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #178 out of 703 programs, Northshore Technical Community College's Practical Nursing program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $38,643 to $43,184 over five years (12% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
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 Northshore Technical Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.