Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $81,809/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$47,809/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,500 |
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 | $61,268 | $20,996 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $59,321 | $29,090 |
Analysis
Denver College of Nursing delivers solid financial returns with median earnings of $81,809 and relatively manageable debt loads of $26,500. Your investment pays off faster than many four-year programs, particularly given nursing's strong job security in the Denver metro area.
The nursing programs show consistent earning potential, with graduates landing in the $59,000-$61,000 range immediately after completion. These starting salaries position you well for rapid debt payoff, especially with the lower debt loads of around $21,000-$29,000 per program track. Denver's healthcare market supports these outcomes with multiple major hospital systems actively recruiting nurses.
The main financial risk lies in the school's for-profit structure and limited program diversity. If you change your mind about nursing, you have few alternatives without transferring. Only 25% of students receive financial aid, meaning most pay full price. This makes the school expensive for students who don't qualify for aid or merit scholarships.
You're a strong financial fit if you're committed to nursing and can handle the accelerated timeline without significant family obligations that might force you to drop out. The school works best for career changers who already have some college credits and want the fastest path to RN licensure. Skip this school if you're unsure about nursing or need extensive financial aid options. Traditional public nursing programs offer better aid packages, though longer completion times.
The school's location in Denver adds value through clinical partnerships with major healthcare employers, but you'll pay premium tuition for that access. Consider this a direct career investment rather than a traditional college experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Denver College of Nursing worth the cost?
Denver College of Nursing graduates earn $81,809 annually after 10 years with median debt of $26,500, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio. The nursing-focused curriculum and strong job market make this investment reasonable for most students.
What is the return on investment for Denver College of Nursing?
With median debt around $26,500 and 10-year earnings of $81,809, graduates typically see a 3:1 income-to-debt ratio. This ROI is solid for nursing programs, though not exceptional compared to top state schools.
Do Denver College of Nursing graduates struggle with student debt?
Most graduates manage their debt well since the $26,500 median debt is below the national average and nursing jobs offer stable employment. The debt burden becomes problematic mainly for students who don't complete their degree.
Which Denver College of Nursing programs have the best job prospects?
All major programs at Denver College of Nursing focus on nursing specialties with starting salaries around $59,000-$61,000. The job market for registered nurses remains strong, making most programs here financially viable.