Nursing at Santa Barbara City College
serving 10,070 students in Santa Barbara, CA.
Program Analysis
At $101,955 per year, Nursing graduates from Santa Barbara City College significantly outpace the $69,474 national average for this trade, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.
The 432.2x 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.
AI risk is moderate — 39% task exposure — and the 0% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Nursing graduates.
The median debt load of $18,360 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #35 out of 947 programs, Santa Barbara City College's Nursing program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $101,955 to $106,046 over five years (4% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
Nursing connects to 4 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 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
Nursing opens doors to multiple career tracks. Our pillar guide covers every mapped occupation with salary data and AI resilience ratings.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Santa Barbara City College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.