Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences at University of Illinois Chicago

University of Illinois Chicago graduates from this health sciences program face a challenging first year, earning just $29,735—well below both the Illinois median ($34,806) and the national average ($35,279). For context, North Park University graduates in the same field earn over $10,000 more annually, and even UIUC's similar program shows significantly stronger outcomes. Ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide means more than half of comparable Illinois programs deliver better starting salaries.

The debt burden compounds the concern. At $21,500, graduates here carry less debt than typical, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 still means nearly nine months of gross income goes toward student loans. This is particularly striking at a public university serving a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients (50%), many of whom may have limited family financial support to bridge the gap during those lean early-career years.

The critical question is whether these low first-year earnings represent a starting point before students complete additional certifications or transition into higher-paying roles. Some allied health pathways require post-graduation credentials, which could explain the weak initial numbers. However, without evidence of rapid salary growth, parents should scrutinize exactly which career tracks this degree supports. If your student is considering UIC for health sciences, get specific answers about typical job placements and two-to-three year earnings trajectories before committing.