Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $99,503/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$65,503/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,625 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $75,518 | $19,914 |
Analysis
Cochran School of Nursing delivers strong financial returns for a specialized nursing program, with graduates earning nearly $100,000 annually while carrying relatively modest debt loads under $20,000.
The school's focus on registered nursing pays off in the competitive New York metro market, where healthcare demand drives salaries well above national averages for nursing graduates. Your debt-to-income ratio works out favorably, with typical monthly loan payments representing a manageable portion of your starting salary.
The financial risk here is narrow program options. If you discover nursing isn't your path after starting, you'll need to transfer elsewhere and potentially lose credits. The school's specialized nature also means fewer opportunities to explore other healthcare fields that might interest you.
This school makes financial sense if you're certain about pursuing nursing and want to enter the workforce quickly with minimal debt. The two-year format gets you earning sooner than traditional four-year programs, and the location puts you in one of the country's strongest nursing job markets.
You should look elsewhere if you want program flexibility or aren't completely committed to nursing. The school's limited aid availability means 55% of students pay full price, so families with significant financial need may find better support at larger institutions with more strong aid programs.
The relatively low percentage of students receiving aid suggests either higher family incomes among the student body or limited institutional aid availability. If you qualify for federal aid, this could work in your favor by reducing competition for limited school-based grants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cochran School of Nursing worth the cost?
With graduates earning $99,503 after 10 years and median debt of only $19,625, Cochran School of Nursing offers strong ROI. The low debt burden makes it a financially sound choice for nursing students.
What is the job market like for Cochran School of Nursing graduates?
Cochran graduates earn above the national average for nursing programs at nearly $100,000 annually. However, starting salaries are closer to $75,500, so expect gradual income growth over your first decade.
How much debt do Cochran School of Nursing students typically graduate with?
The median debt at Cochran is $19,625, which is relatively low for nursing programs. This manageable debt load means graduates can typically pay off loans within a few years of working.
Which programs at Cochran School of Nursing have the best return on investment?
All of Cochran's nursing programs lead to similar career paths with strong earning potential. The school focuses primarily on registered nursing, nursing administration, and clinical nursing research.