Practical Nursing at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield
a compact campus enrolling 820 students in Bakersfield, CA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $51,744/yr, edging above the $44,151 national average for Practical Nursing — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand for this trade.
With only 18% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, the scenario spread is tight at 10%. Career paths for Practical Nursing are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.
At $20,000 in median debt against $51,744 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #363 out of 703 programs, San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield's financial outcomes for Practical Nursing trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $51,744 to $59,073 over five years (14% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
Practical Nursing connects to 2 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 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% |
Practical Nursing Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Practical Nursing careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering healthcare.
Compare & Explore
Practical Nursing Overview
Practical Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield
Considering a 4-Year Degree Instead?
Compare how bachelor's degree graduates fare on earnings, ROI, and AI resilience.