Nursing at Ridgewater College
a smaller institution with 2,048 students in Willmar, MN.
Program Analysis
At $59,082/yr, Nursing graduates from Ridgewater College land near the $69,474 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
With a 61.3x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 18% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Nursing career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
The median debt load of $15,250 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
A #662 ranking among 947 Nursing programs places Ridgewater College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 23% earnings increase from $59,082 to $72,623 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
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
Explore what Nursing graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 947 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Ridgewater College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.