Nursing at Rock Valley College
with a smaller student body of 4,362 in Rockford, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $68,229 track close to the $69,474 national median for Nursing programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
With a 101.7x 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.
At $8,968 in median debt against $68,229 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
Rock Valley College ranks #232 among 947 Nursing programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 23% earnings increase from $68,229 to $84,227 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
What can you do with a Nursing credential from Rock Valley College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Rock Valley College
Considering a 4-Year Degree Instead?
Compare how bachelor's degree graduates fare on earnings, ROI, and AI resilience.