Legal Support Services at Stautzenberger College-Rockford Career College

With a sample size under 30 students, these numbers require careful interpretation, but they point to a program struggling to compete in Illinois's legal support market. Graduates here earn $35,289 in their first year—roughly $7,000 below the state median and $5,000 below the national average for this certificate. Even among Illinois programs, this ranks in just the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of similar programs in the state deliver better outcomes. Community colleges like College of Lake County and Harper College produce graduates earning $10,000 more annually with this same credential.

The $20,834 debt load sits at national median levels, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59. That's manageable on paper—you could theoretically pay off this debt within two years of full earnings—but only if those earnings hold steady. For context, a paralegal certificate from College of DuPage or Lake County would mean similar or even lower debt with significantly higher earning power. The high Pell Grant percentage (72%) suggests this program serves students who can least afford to take on debt for below-market outcomes.

Unless there are compelling geographic or scheduling reasons to choose this specific program, Illinois families have notably better options. The state's community college system consistently delivers stronger results in legal support training at competitive prices.