Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $77,709/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$43,709/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,000 |
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 | $90,412 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $62,183 | $20,000 |
Analysis
Saint Anthony College of Nursing delivers solid financial returns for a specialized healthcare school. Graduates earn $77,709 annually after ten years, well above the national average for four-year degrees, while carrying just $20,000 in median debt.
The nursing programs show strong but variable outcomes. The top-tier nursing track produces $90,412 annual earnings, making it one of the better-paying nursing programs in Illinois. However, a secondary nursing track earns significantly less at $62,183, creating a $28,000 annual earnings gap between programs at the same institution. You need to understand which specific nursing track you're entering before committing.
The school's biggest financial risk is its narrow focus. With only nursing programs available, you have no backup options if you decide healthcare isn't right for you. This specialization also means your job prospects depend entirely on nursing demand in the Rockford region and your willingness to relocate.
Saint Anthony works best financially if you're certain about nursing as a career and want to minimize debt. The low borrowing levels suggest either affordable tuition or generous aid packages. Only 35% of students receive aid, indicating many families can pay without assistance.
This school makes financial sense for committed nursing students who value small class sizes and don't mind limited program options. Look elsewhere if you want to explore different majors or prefer larger schools with diverse career paths. The debt-to-earnings ratio is favorable, but the lack of program variety creates concentrated risk that isn't suitable for undecided students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Saint Anthony College of Nursing worth the cost for nursing students?
Saint Anthony College of Nursing offers solid value with graduates earning $77,709 annually after 10 years and relatively low debt of $20,000. The nursing programs lead to stable careers with good earning potential compared to the modest investment.
What is the return on investment for Saint Anthony College of Nursing graduates?
Graduates see a strong return with median earnings of $77,709 ten years post-graduation against $20,000 in typical debt. The debt-to-income ratio is favorable for a specialized nursing program.
Do Saint Anthony College of Nursing programs have good job prospects?
The college's nursing programs prepare students for a field with consistent demand and competitive salaries. Advanced nursing programs can lead to earnings over $90,000, while entry-level registered nursing positions typically start around $62,000.
How much debt do Saint Anthony College of Nursing students typically graduate with?
Students graduate with a median debt of $20,000, which is manageable compared to nursing salary potential. This lower debt load makes the degree more financially viable than many other healthcare programs.