Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at University of Illinois Chicago
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UIC's nursing program offers solid value with notably low debt, though earnings plateau immediately after graduation. Starting salaries of $75,045 exceed both national and Illinois medians, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide among 41 nursing programs. More importantly, graduates carry just $20,500 in debt—significantly below the $27,000 state and national averages—creating a very manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27.
The concerning pattern is earnings stagnation: four years post-graduation, median pay actually drops slightly to $74,072. While this flatline is common in nursing, it contrasts with higher-performing Illinois programs like Chamberlain ($83,188) or Governors State ($80,391) that may offer better long-term earning potential. However, UIC's debt advantage is substantial—graduates start their careers with roughly $6,500 less debt burden than typical nursing students.
For families prioritizing affordability and steady employment, UIC delivers strong value. The combination of above-average starting pay and below-average debt creates financial breathing room that many nursing graduates don't enjoy. While this won't be the highest-earning nursing program in Illinois, it provides a reliable pathway into a stable profession without crushing debt loads.
Where University of Illinois Chicago Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Illinois Chicago graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Illinois Chicago graduates earn $75k, placing them in the 51th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (41 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois Chicago | $75,045 | $74,072 | $20,500 | 0.27 |
| Chamberlain University-Illinois | $83,188 | $81,995 | $39,146 | 0.47 |
| Governors State University | $80,391 | $97,713 | $27,342 | 0.34 |
| Benedictine University | $80,136 | $81,995 | $17,188 | 0.21 |
| Saint Xavier University | $78,285 | $74,864 | $27,188 | 0.35 |
| Loyola University Chicago | $76,869 | $77,492 | $27,000 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in Illinois
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Illinois schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamberlain University-Illinois Addison | $20,604 | $83,188 | $39,146 |
| Governors State University University Park | $11,320 | $80,391 | $27,342 |
| Benedictine University Lisle | $34,290 | $80,136 | $17,188 |
| Saint Xavier University Chicago | $36,840 | $78,285 | $27,188 |
| Loyola University Chicago Chicago | $51,716 | $76,869 | $27,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Illinois Chicago, approximately 50% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 324 graduates with reported earnings and 295 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.