Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 36.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $39,018
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $10,250
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 14:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 39.6%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $109/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 | $59,011 | $17,592 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $37,208 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $14,759 | $8,625 |
Outcomes Overview
Otero graduates earn a median of $39,018 ten years after leaving, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 26% with typical debt of $10,250. Monthly loan payments of $109 consume just 3.3% of gross monthly income, well below the 10% threshold financial advisors recommend. The 95.1% employment rate reflects strong job placement in agriculture, healthcare, and skilled trades throughout rural Colorado. Many nursing graduates find work at regional hospitals, while agriculture students often return to family operations or agribusiness. Trade program completers typically enter construction, automotive repair, or energy sector jobs. With low debt burdens and solid employment outcomes in stable regional industries, Otero delivers a strong return on investment for career-focused students.