Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing

Saint Francis Medical Center's nursing program presents an unusual challenge: graduates earn below both the Illinois median ($73,156) and national average ($74,888), ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide. More troubling is the earnings trajectory—median pay actually drops from $67,776 to $62,629 between years one and four, a decline that runs counter to typical nursing career progression. For comparison, Illinois programs like Chamberlain and Governors State place their graduates at $80,000+, suggesting better institutional connections or clinical partnerships.

The program's saving grace is exceptionally low debt—$18,500 versus the $27,000 state and national norm. This means graduates carry manageable monthly payments even with lower earnings, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 is quite favorable. However, the backwards earnings pattern suggests potential issues with advancement opportunities, regional market saturation in Peoria, or graduates leaving acute care settings.

For families prioritizing minimal debt, this program delivers. But if your child is choosing between Illinois nursing schools, understand they'll likely start $10,000+ behind peers from higher-ranked programs—a gap that appears to widen rather than close over time. The low debt makes this workable, but more competitive programs offer better long-term earning potential without dramatically higher borrowing.