At $30,580/yr net price, Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa 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) | $30,580 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $122,320 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $34,657/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$657/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 186.2 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 | $30,569/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $30,620/yr |
Analysis
Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa delivers poor financial returns that make it difficult to recommend for most students. With median earnings of just $34,657 ten years after graduation and an annual net price of $30,580, you face a concerning earnings-to-cost ratio that signals weak job market outcomes for graduates.
The school's nursing program, while the primary draw, appears to underperform compared to regional nursing salaries in Tampa Bay, where registered nurses typically earn $65,000-$75,000 annually. This suggests either poor job placement rates or graduates working in lower-paying healthcare positions rather than RN roles.
Your biggest financial risk here is the low 67% retention rate, which indicates many students drop out after paying substantial tuition without completing their degree. The for-profit structure also means higher costs with potentially less employer recognition than state nursing programs.
The relatively low median debt of $9,500 provides the only bright spot, suggesting some students receive significant financial aid or complete accelerated programs. However, with only 53% of students receiving aid, you may face full sticker price without substantial merit scholarships.
This school might work if you already have healthcare experience and need specific nursing credentials quickly, or if you receive substantial employer tuition reimbursement. Otherwise, you should seriously consider Florida's state college nursing programs, which offer better value and stronger employment outcomes. The weak earnings data suggests Tampa's nursing job market either doesn't value this school's credentials highly or graduates struggle with board exam passage rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa worth the cost?
With graduates earning a median of $34,657 ten years after graduation and annual costs around $30,580, the financial return is questionable. The debt-to-income ratio suggests you'll struggle to pay off loans quickly on typical graduate salaries.
What is the job market like for Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa graduates?
Graduate earnings of $34,657 are below the national average for nursing programs. While nursing has job security, this school's graduates appear to earn less than peers from other nursing programs.
How much debt do students typically have after Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa?
The median debt is relatively low at $9,500, which is the program's main financial advantage. However, low graduate earnings mean even this modest debt burden could be challenging to manage.
Does Arizona College of Nursing-Tampa have good financial aid?
With a 100% acceptance rate and a net price of $30,580, the school appears to admit most applicants but doesn't offer particularly generous aid packages. Students should compare aid offers carefully with other nursing programs.