Practical Nursing at Caribbean University-Vega Baja

Vega Baja, PR · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants
37 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $10,084/yr (-26% vs median)
AI Risk Low (18% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (258,500 openings/yr)
ROI 18.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #5 of 6 Practical Nursing programs

Program Analysis

Your career path from Caribbean University-Vega Baja will lead you directly into the crucial healthcare sector in Puerto Rico. The earnings reflect the specific economic realities and healthcare salary structures on the island, which differ significantly from mainland U.S. markets. You'll likely find opportunities in local hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private clinics around Vega Baja, Manatí, and possibly the greater San Juan area. These roles, while foundational, are essential for patient care, and demand remains consistent. The program provides the practical skills for immediate employment, focusing on the needs of the local community. To maximize your earning potential, consider how quickly you can pursue further certifications or an Associate's degree to become a Registered Nurse, which often unlocks higher salaries and broader career options within the Puerto Rico healthcare system or if you decide to relocate.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Practical Nursing graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $443K $444K $438K
Earnings Multiple 18.6x 18.6x 18.4x
Probability of Field Employment 87% 85% 76%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 37 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$23,864
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$25,240
-6% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$15,250
18.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$29,029
188% growth from Year 1

About Caribbean University-Vega Baja

a compact campus enrolling 176 students in Vega Baja, PR. Pell Grant recipients make up 79% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Caribbean University-Vega Baja →

Top Career Paths

Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses $62,340/yr
Nursing assistants $39,530/yr
View all 2 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Practical Nursing at Other Schools

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Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Practical Nursing at Caribbean University-Vega Baja?
A score of 37/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Practical Nursing. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Is Practical Nursing at Caribbean University-Vega Baja worth the student debt?
Median debt of $15,250 against $10,084/yr starting salary means roughly 1.5 years of earnings go to repayment. That's above average — financial aid and loan terms matter here.
Can you still earn well with Practical Nursing from Caribbean University-Vega Baja?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →