Saint Elizabeth College of Nursing

Campus life revolves around nursing cohorts rather than traditional college social scenes. The school organizes faith-based activities and community service events reflecting its Catholic mission, including hospital volunteer opportunities. With no dorms or Greek life, students typically live off-campus in Utica. The tight-knit environment fosters strong peer relationships — the Facebook page showcases white coat ceremonies, pinning rituals, and graduation celebrations as hallmark experiences.

SECON delivers remarkable employment stats: 90% of graduates land nursing jobs within a year, with some cohorts achieving 100% placement. Alumni report median earnings of $49,479 within six years — 13% above national averages — with top performers in clinical nursing roles earning nearly $88,798. The school's decade-long perfect employment record for graduates actively seeking positions demonstrates its strong regional healthcare network.

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 estimates costs after aid, with 95% of students receiving financial assistance. Average annual aid packages total $9,114, combining federal grants ($5,545), state grants ($3,569), and institutional awards. Merit scholarships can cover up to $8,000 over eight semesters. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the school will distribute $264,000 in scholarship funds — a significant sum given the small student body.

SECON's laser focus on nursing sets it apart: no gen ed distractions, just immersive clinical training. The guaranteed admissions policy removes application stress, while the near-perfect job placement rate validates its rigorous approach. Unlike university nursing programs where students compete for clinical slots, SECON's hospital partnerships ensure hands-on experience from day one. The school's century-old Catholic tradition (founded in 1904) infuses the curriculum with an emphasis on compassionate care that resonates with regional healthcare employers.