Cayuga Onondaga BOCES-Practical Nursing Program

Don't expect dorm life or football games—this is a commuter program for adults seeking career change. With only 36 students total, the vibe is more like a tight-knight vocational cohort than a traditional campus. The Facebook page shows graduation ceremonies where students celebrate completing the intensive 11-month grind together.

The payoff comes quickly: graduates report median earnings of $39,775 just one year post-completion. The program's short duration means students enter the workforce faster than traditional nursing degree paths. While specific licensure pass rates aren't published, the vocational focus suggests preparation is squarely aimed at state nursing exams.

At $9,531 in average aid (covering ~68% of costs for 89% of students), the program is relatively affordable for career training. Financial aid packages average $6,110-$9,096, making this a viable option for those wary of traditional college debt. The net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator suggests many students graduate with minimal loans compared to degree programs.

This program is all killer, no filler—a straight shot to nursing credentials in under a year. Unlike community college programs bogged down by gen-ed requirements, every hour here is clinically relevant. The gender imbalance (92% female) creates a particular culture, and the small cohort size means personalized attention. For career-changers who want to hit the ground running—and earning—it's a pragmatic alternative to the traditional college route.