Practical Nursing at Southern Missouri Technical Institute
with a smaller student body of 58 in West Plains, MO.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $31,297 place Southern Missouri Technical Institute below the $44,151 national median for Practical Nursing — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
With only 18% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, the scenario spread is tight at 0%. Career paths for Practical Nursing are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.
With first-year pay of $31,297 far exceeding the $8,871 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #658 out of 703 programs, Southern Missouri Technical Institute's financial outcomes for Practical Nursing trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
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 Southern Missouri Technical Institute
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.