At $34,155/yr net price, Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix graduates earn $34,657/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $657/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $34,155 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $136,620 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $34,657/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$657/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 207.9 years |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $33,598/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $32,925/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $33,924/yr |
| $110,001+ | $38,789/yr |
Analysis
Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix presents a concerning financial picture with median earnings of just $34,657 ten years after graduation while charging $34,155 annually in net costs. You're essentially paying the equivalent of one full year's salary for each year of education, creating a break-even timeline that stretches far longer than most nursing programs.
The school's focus on nursing should theoretically provide clear career pathways, but the earnings data suggests graduates aren't landing the higher-paying hospital positions or specialized nursing roles that justify the tuition costs. Phoenix's competitive healthcare market means you'll face competition from graduates of more established programs at Arizona State University and University of Arizona, both of which carry stronger regional reputations.
Your debt load remains manageable at $9,500 median, indicating either strong financial aid or students paying out of pocket. However, with only 52% of students receiving aid, you may find limited scholarship opportunities if you need significant financial support.
This school works financially only if you can pay most costs upfront and avoid substantial borrowing. If you need loans to attend, the projected earnings don't support the debt service on anything approaching full tuition costs. You'd likely achieve better ROI through community college nursing programs or the state universities' nursing tracks, which offer similar career preparation at significantly lower cost.
The 86% retention rate suggests students aren't dropping out due to academic challenges, but the weak earnings outcomes indicate the program isn't positioning graduates for the most lucrative nursing opportunities available in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix worth the cost?
Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix has concerning return on investment numbers, with graduates earning a median of $34,657 ten years after enrollment while paying $34,155 annually. The earnings barely exceed the annual cost, making this a financially risky choice compared to other nursing programs.
What are the job prospects after graduating from Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix?
While nursing jobs are generally available, Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix graduates earn significantly less than the national average for nursing degree holders. The 10-year median earnings of $34,657 suggest graduates may struggle to find well-paying positions or advance in their careers.
How much debt do students typically have after Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix?
The median debt load is relatively manageable at $9,500, which is lower than many private colleges. However, given the low post-graduation earnings, even this modest debt burden may be difficult to pay off quickly.
Does Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix offer good financial aid?
With a net price of $34,155 per year and 100% acceptance rate, Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix appears to rely heavily on federal financial aid rather than merit-based institutional grants. Students should carefully compare aid packages with other nursing programs before enrolling.