Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants at Illinois Central College

Illinois Central College's nursing program produces graduates earning $55,604 in their first year—remarkably strong for a vocational nursing certificate. This places graduates in the 94th percentile nationally and 80th percentile within Illinois, where the typical program produces earnings of just $43,042. For comparison, only three other Illinois programs show higher earnings, and those differences are relatively modest. Graduates here earn substantially more than the national median of $44,134, suggesting this program successfully positions students for better-paying positions or facilities.

The debt picture reinforces the value. At $12,700, borrowing sits slightly below the national median ($14,803) though above Illinois's lower state average ($9,625). The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.23 means graduates owe roughly three months of salary—manageable by any standard. This combination of strong earnings and reasonable debt creates a clear path to financial stability.

The caveat: these numbers come from a small sample of fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes may vary more than at larger programs. Still, the pattern is compelling—graduates are out-earning peers across both Illinois and the nation while taking on debt they can realistically handle. For families seeking practical healthcare training with immediate earning potential, this program delivers measurable results at a community college price point.