Practical Nursing at Somerset Community College
a compact campus enrolling 3,899 students in Somerset, KY.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $28,953 place Somerset Community College below the $44,151 national median for Practical Nursing — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
The 107.4x 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 exposure is significant at 18% of job tasks, producing a 40% spread between best and worst-case decade earnings. The field isn't immune to disruption.
With first-year pay of $28,953 far exceeding the $8,069 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #283 out of 703 programs, Somerset Community College's Practical Nursing offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
Earnings growth from $28,953 to $46,467 over five years (60% increase) indicates that graduates in this trade see meaningful salary progression.
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% |
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 Somerset Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.