Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Parkland College

Based on comparable automotive programs in Illinois, this certificate appears to position students near the middle of the state's earning range—similar to Rock Valley College's reported outcomes and well above the national median of $35,905. The estimated $41,386 first-year earnings would put graduates in skilled-trade territory, though notably below what Lincoln Land Community College reports for its automotive students.

The estimated $9,500 debt load works strongly in this program's favor. That's about $2,300 less than what similar Illinois programs typically produce, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.23—meaning graduates would owe roughly three months' salary. For a credential that can be completed quickly, this math makes practical sense. However, remember these figures come from peer institutions, not Parkland's specific track record with automotive certificate holders.

The real question is whether Parkland can match the stronger outcomes seen at nearby Lincoln Land, or if it tracks closer to the state average. Without actual graduate data, you're betting on the school's reputation and industry connections rather than proven results. Given the low estimated debt and solid state-level benchmarks, the risk seems manageable for students who already know they want automotive work—but verify current job placement rates and employer partnerships before committing.