Practical Nursing at Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City
serving 10,412 students in Kansas City, MO.
Program Analysis
At $46,147/yr, Practical Nursing graduates from Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City land near the $44,151 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 166.1x 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 21% gap from the optimistic case.
The median debt load of $12,819 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Ranked #70 of 703 programs, Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City's Practical Nursing program falls in the top 10%, outperforming most peers on financial outcomes.
Earnings grow from $46,147 to $58,225 over five years — a 26% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
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 Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.