Analysis
Fox College's veterinary technician program costs less than typical for the field, but the earnings picture reveals a troubling plateau. Starting at $36,853—just below the Illinois state median of $36,988—graduates see their income actually decline slightly to $36,484 by year four. This ranks the program in just the 40th percentile statewide, meaning six in ten Illinois vet tech programs produce better outcomes.
The debt load of $14,722 is manageable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40, which should allow graduates to handle payments without severe financial strain. However, that relatively lower debt masks a more fundamental concern: graduates aren't seeing income growth as they gain experience. Compare this to nearby Parkland College, where vet techs earn $39,246—about $2,800 more annually, which compounds significantly over a career.
For parents, the key question is whether this program justifies its cost when better-performing options exist in Illinois. The stagnant earnings suggest limited career advancement or specialization opportunities for Fox College graduates. Unless your family has compelling reasons to choose this specific location, exploring programs at Parkland or even Joliet Junior College (which matches the state median) would likely deliver better returns on the same investment of time and tuition.
Where Fox College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all veterinary/animal health technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Fox College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fox College | $36,853 | $36,484 | -1% |
| Northern Virginia Community College | $42,966 | $46,105 | +7% |
| Stanbridge University | $41,647 | $43,867 | +5% |
| New England Institute of Technology | $38,126 | $43,297 | +14% |
| Parkland College | $39,246 | $36,941 | -6% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Fox CollegeTinley Park | $17,190 | $36,853 | $36,484 | $14,722 | 0.40 |
 Parkland CollegeChampaign | $4,284 | $39,246 | $36,941 | — | — |
 Joliet Junior CollegeJoliet | $4,530 | $36,988 | — | $9,562 | 0.26 |
| National Median | — | $36,090 | — | $18,000 | 0.50 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with veterinary/animal health technologies/technicians graduates
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 Fox College, approximately 46% 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.