Analysis
An estimated $11,425 in debt positions this automotive program favorably compared to what students typically borrow for this credential—about $1,600 less than the national median and nearly $600 below what other Illinois community colleges charge. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 suggests graduates could realistically pay this off in well under two years.
The earnings picture, drawn from three Illinois automotive programs, shows first-year wages around $51,000—a solid $8,000 above the national median for this field. That matches what Parkland College graduates earn, though it trails Illinois Central's $58,000. For context, 43% of Carl Sandburg students receive Pell grants, so many families here are weighing whether this training can lead to stable employment without crushing debt.
The relatively low borrowing is the standout here. While we can't know exactly what Carl Sandburg's graduates earn or owe (the sample is too small to report), automotive technician programs across Illinois appear to produce decent outcomes, and this one seems positioned to deliver similar value without the higher debt loads that make trades programs risky. If your student has mechanical aptitude and wants immediate employment, this estimated financial profile suggests a path that won't require years of repayment.
Where Carl Sandburg College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies associates's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (39 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Carl Sandburg CollegeGalesburg | $5,300 | $51,093* | — | $11,425* | — |
 Illinois Central CollegeEast Peoria | $4,650 | $58,122* | $55,178 | —* | — |
 Parkland CollegeChampaign | $4,284 | $51,093* | $49,676 | $7,000* | 0.14 |
 Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose ParkMelrose Park | — | $37,089* | $39,110 | $19,016* | 0.51 |
| National Median | — | $42,896* | — | $12,000* | 0.28 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with vehicle maintenance and repair technologies graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Avionics Technicians
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Motorcycle Mechanics
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Carl Sandburg College, approximately 43% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in IL. Actual outcomes may vary.