Nursing at Merced College
with a mid-sized student body of 9,677 in Merced, CA.
Program Analysis
Merced College Nursing graduates command $107,024/yr out of the gate, well above the $69,474 national median. That 54% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 483.5x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Nursing programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Nursing's career paths, with 39% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 3% gap from the optimistic case.
Ranked #2 of 947 Nursing programs nationally, Merced College sits in the top 1% — one of the strongest programs in the country by financial outcomes.
Five-year earnings of $114,563 are relatively flat compared to the $107,024 starting salary — typical of trades with stable but capped salary bands.
There are 4 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Nursing, including Home Health Director (median $117,960/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 Nursing graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse anesthetists | $223,210 | +8.6% | 83% |
| Nurse practitioners | $129,210 | +40.1% | 52% |
| Nurse midwives | $128,790 | +11.1% | 61% |
Nursing Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Nursing careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering healthcare.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Merced College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.