Practical Nursing at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
with a smaller student body of 1,277 in Fennimore, WI.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $22,853 place Southwest Wisconsin Technical College below the $44,151 national median for Practical Nursing — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 82.3x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Practical Nursing programs nationally.
The 40% gap between optimistic and pessimistic AI scenarios is notable. With 18% of typical tasks exposed to automation, AI adoption could meaningfully shift career outcomes for Practical Nursing graduates.
Ranked #598 of 703 Practical Nursing programs, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $46,496 show a 103% jump from the $22,853 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.
There are 2 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Practical Nursing, including Nurse, Licensed Practical (median $62,340/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
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 Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.