A small nursing school in California, Samuel Merritt University, is surprising many by having graduates who earn more than those from prestigious schools like Harvard and Stanford. According to a ranking by Business Insider, graduates from Samuel Merritt earn an average of $148,182 four years after finishing their degrees, placing the school third in the country for graduate earnings. The university focuses on health sciences and has fewer than 1,000 students. It doesn't have on-campus housing but works with local properties to offer affordable housing options. Students appreciate the close-knit community and support from peers. Graduates often take on about $20,000 in student loans, but their earnings are similar to those from top schools like MIT. The high salaries are partly due to the demand for healthcare professionals like registered nurses, who earn an average of $101,420 nationwide, and even more in California. Additionally, the school's location in the Bay Area, known for its high cost of living and high incomes, plays a significant role in boosting graduates' earnings. Overall, Samuel Merritt's focus on healthcare and its location contribute to its graduates earning more than many from well-known Ivy League schools.
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