Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at City Colleges of Chicago-Malcolm X College

Malcolm X College's nursing program delivers slightly above-average outcomes at a remarkably manageable cost. With graduates earning $70,086 in their first year—outpacing both Illinois and national medians—while carrying just $15,660 in debt, this program offers one of the better financial profiles you'll find in community college nursing. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 means students finish with debt equivalent to roughly three months' salary, which is exceptionally reasonable for an associate degree that leads directly to a licensed profession.

The program ranks solidly in the 60th percentile among Illinois nursing programs, placing graduates within striking distance of higher-earning programs like Moraine Valley ($73,137) and College of Lake County ($72,472), but at comparable or lower debt levels. Given that 42% of students receive Pell grants, these outcomes demonstrate strong value for students from lower-income backgrounds who need an affordable path to a stable, well-paying career. The robust sample size confirms these aren't outlier results.

For families weighing community college nursing options in the Chicago area, this represents a low-risk investment. The debt is manageable enough that loan payments won't strain a new nurse's budget, and the earnings immediately open doors to middle-class stability. While not the highest-earning program in Illinois, it delivers the core value proposition of nursing education: quick entry into a profession where you can support yourself comfortably from day one.