Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 32.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $33,828
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $10,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 36.1%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $106/mo
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 | $43,922 | $11,900 |
Outcomes Overview
Graduates leave with a median debt of $10,000, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of roughly 30% based on first-year earnings of $33,828. Monthly loan payments of $106 consume about 3.8% of typical graduate income. The 96.1% employment rate reflects strong job placement in the Muscle Shoals area's manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Many graduates transfer to four-year universities or enter local industries like aerospace and automotive manufacturing. The college's proximity to major employers in the Tennessee Valley provides solid career pathways. With low debt burdens and strong employment outcomes, Northwest Shoals delivers a strong return on investment for students seeking practical skills and immediate workforce entry.