Practical Nursing at Grand Rapids Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 10,530 in Grand Rapids, MI.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $45,946/yr, roughly in line with the $44,151 national median for Practical Nursing. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 139.0x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Practical Nursing programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Practical Nursing's career paths, with 18% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 15% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $45,946 far exceeding the $9,407 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #91 of 703 nationally, this is a top-5% Practical Nursing program. Financial outcomes consistently outperform the vast majority of peers.
Five-year earnings of $55,029 are relatively flat compared to the $45,946 starting salary — typical of trades with stable but capped salary bands.
There are 2 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Practical Nursing, including Nurse, Licensed Practical (median $62,340/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Practical Nursing graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses | $62,340 | +2.6% | 75% |
| Nursing assistants | $39,530 | +2.3% | 90% |
About Practical Nursing Careers
Your career begins on the front lines of patient care as a nursing assistant. In a hospital or long-term care facility, your active days will be spent helping patients with essential tasks like bathing, eating, and moving safely. You’ll be a vital part of the medical team, taking blood pressure and temperature and serving as the eyes and ears for the supervising nurses.
Compare & Explore
Practical Nursing Overview
Practical Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Grand Rapids Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.