Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $85,910/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$51,910/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $13,930 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $99,769 | $33,095 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $62,674 | $13,500 |
Analysis
Research College of Nursing delivers strong financial returns for most graduates, with median earnings of $85,910 after 10 years and relatively low debt loads at $13,930. This combination creates one of the better debt-to-income ratios you'll find in nursing education.
The school's nursing programs show significant variation in outcomes. The higher-level nursing track produces graduates earning $99,769 annually, though you'll carry $33,095 in debt. The standard registered nursing program offers more modest returns at $62,674 but keeps debt minimal at $13,500. Your choice between these tracks should align with your career goals and debt tolerance.
Kansas City's healthcare market supports these earnings potential well, with multiple hospital systems and growing demand for specialized nursing roles. The school's focus exclusively on nursing means you're getting targeted preparation for a stable, well-compensated field.
Financial aid availability appears limited, with only 17.62% of students receiving aid. This suggests you'll likely pay close to full price, making the school's relatively affordable tuition structure important for your bottom line. The low overall debt levels indicate tuition remains reasonable compared to many private nursing programs.
Research College works best if you're committed to nursing and can handle the full cost of attendance without extensive borrowing. The school makes less sense if you're exploring multiple career paths or need substantial financial aid to make college affordable. Your return on investment here depends entirely on completing the nursing program and entering the healthcare workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Research College of Nursing worth the cost?
Research College of Nursing offers strong ROI with graduates earning $85,910 annually after 10 years and relatively low median debt of $13,930. The debt-to-income ratio is favorable compared to many nursing programs.
What are the highest paying programs at Research College of Nursing?
Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing programs lead with graduates earning $99,769 annually. Basic Registered Nursing graduates earn $62,674, which is lower but still provides reasonable returns given the modest debt load.
How much student debt do Research College of Nursing graduates have?
The median debt is $13,930, which is significantly lower than the national average for nursing programs. This low debt burden makes the program financially accessible even for graduates in lower-paying nursing roles.
Does Research College of Nursing have good job placement rates?
While specific placement data varies, the school's location in Kansas City provides access to major healthcare systems and the earnings data suggests graduates find employment in their field. The specialized nursing programs appear to have particularly strong career outcomes.