Nursing at Southeast New Mexico College
with a smaller student body of 426 in Carlsbad, NM.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $78,510 at Southeast New Mexico College come in 13% above the national median of $69,474 for Nursing programs.
The 349.2x 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.
With first-year pay of $78,510 far exceeding the $13,590 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #42 out of 947 programs, Southeast New Mexico College's Nursing program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $78,510 to $80,465 over five years (2% 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 Southeast New Mexico College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.