Nursing at Oakton College
enrolling 6,229 students in Des Plaines, IL.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $69,434/yr, roughly in line with the $69,474 national median for Nursing. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 98.9x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 39% task exposure — and the 8% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Nursing graduates.
Ranked #231 out of 947 programs, Oakton College's Nursing program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
Earnings growth is modest: $69,434 to $77,715 over five years (12% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
Nursing connects to 4 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
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
Explore what Nursing graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 947 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Nursing Overview
Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Oakton College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.