Find a Job You Really Want In
Every aspiring student dreams of graduating into a lucrative career. While entry-level salaries can often be modest, choosing the right educational institution can significantly impact your earning potential. In 2026, the job market continues to reward graduates from specific junior colleges with impressive starting salaries. Here, we present the top junior colleges with the highest-earning graduates in each state, a valuable resource for prospective students aiming for financial success.
With this guide, you can make informed decisions about your education and future career.
Top 10 Junior Colleges
- Phillips School of Nursing at Mount Sinai Beth Israel
- Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health
- Lawrence Memorial Hospital School of Nursing
- ITI Technical College
- Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences
- Morrison Institute of Technology
- Southside College of Health Sciences
- Dunwoody College of Technology
- Bismarck State College
- Maine College of Health Professions
While funding your education can be a challenge, the right institution can facilitate a successful career that supports a comfortable lifestyle. If you’re ready to embark on a rewarding career post-graduation, this list serves as a fantastic starting point.
How We Determined This Data
Utilizing the Department of Education College Scorecard data, we identified the junior college in each state with the highest-earning graduates. We focused on average earnings ten years after graduation, allowing ample time for graduates to establish themselves in their careers and advance within their fields. Each state is represented by one college, but many states boast multiple high-caliber junior colleges for students to explore.
1. Phillips School of Nursing at Mount Sinai Beth Israel
Average Earnings: $85,600
Graduates from the Phillips School of Nursing have a remarkable track record, often securing positions with salaries around $85,600. This level of income allows them to manage student debt efficiently.
2. Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health
Average Earnings: $84,800
Students from the Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health frequently enter the job market with starting salaries around $84,800, ensuring a financially stable beginning to their careers.
3. Lawrence Memorial Hospital School of Nursing
Average Earnings: $67,200
Ranked third, the Lawrence Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in Massachusetts, boasts graduates earning an impressive $67,200 right after graduation.
4. ITI Technical College
Average Earnings: $59,900
ITI Technical College ranks fourth, with graduates achieving average salaries of $59,900, setting them on a path to success.
5. Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Average Earnings: $57,900
Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce, often starting at $57,900, provided they maintain their academic performance.
6. Morrison Institute of Technology
Average Earnings: $55,700
Morrison Institute of Technology ranks sixth on our list, with graduates earning approximately $55,700 annually, a solid foundation for financial independence.
7. Southside College of Health Sciences
Average Earnings: $54,600
Graduates from Southside College of Health Sciences can expect to enter the workforce with an average salary of $54,600, easing their transition from college to career.
8. Dunwoody College of Technology
Average Earnings: $53,600
Dunwoody College of Technology ranks eighth, with graduates achieving an average starting salary of $53,600, which positions them well for financial stability.
9. Bismarck State College
Average Earnings: $53,600
Bismarck State College graduates can expect to earn around $53,600, making it a strong contender for those seeking a rewarding career post-graduation.
10. Maine College of Health Professions
Average Earnings: $53,100
Finally, the Maine College of Health Professions rounds out our list, with graduates often starting their careers at $53,100, showcasing the college’s commitment to student success.
Summary of the Junior Colleges with the Highest Earning Graduates in Each State
Now that you’re familiar with the junior colleges leading to lucrative career opportunities, it’s time to consider your options seriously. If these institutions don’t align with your goals, we have a comprehensive list of the best junior colleges in each state below.
Author
Amanda Postma is a writer for the Zippia Career Advice blog with a focus on creating entertaining content to help you through your job search. She received her BA from the University Of Missouri-Columbia.
