Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at College of DuPage

College of DuPage's practical nursing program graduates earn significantly below what nursing assistants and LPNs typically make in Illinois—$31,086 versus the state median of $43,042. That $12,000 gap places this program in just the 25th percentile statewide, meaning three-quarters of similar Illinois programs deliver better outcomes. The disconnect is particularly striking given that Illinois has multiple community colleges achieving earnings above $55,000, nearly double what College of DuPage graduates report.

The debt load of $11,000 sits slightly above the state median and represents about four months of first-year income, which would normally be manageable. However, when earnings are this far below market rate, even modest debt becomes harder to justify. Graduates here are making $13,000 less than the national median for their credential—a substantial disadvantage in a healthcare field where entry-level positions typically offer consistent wages.

For parents considering this program, the central question is why graduates earn so much less than peers at other Illinois schools. Whether it's differences in job placement support, clinical training partnerships, or credential types (CNA versus LPN), something isn't translating to competitive salaries. Given that dozens of Illinois alternatives exist with demonstrably stronger outcomes—and similar or lower debt—this program requires careful scrutiny before enrollment.