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Western Illinois University delivers the state's most affordable dietetics program at $11,592 annually, while Loyola University Chicago costs three times more at $35,196. This $23,604 price gap reflects Illinois's split between accessible public education and premium private options. The state's healthcare sector, anchored by major Chicago medical centers like Northwestern Memorial and Rush University Medical Center, creates steady demand for nutrition professionals. Graduates from University of Illinois Chicago earn $42,682 on average, the highest among programs reporting salary data. Public universities dominate the affordability rankings, with six of the top seven schools charging under $15,000 per year.
10
Programs
$11,592 – $35,196
Net Price Range
$35,660
Avg. Program Earnings
59.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,592 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
2 $12,313 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
3 $12,909 $12,700 49.6% 70.7%
4 $13,696 $12,922 55.0% 97.5%
5 $14,093 $13,403 45.2% 68.0%
6 $15,113 $37,844 62.4% 89.5%
7 $18,996 $16,021 66.3% 86.2%
8 $21,539 $37,940 60.3% 57.8%
9 $23,572 $39,680 72.1% 75.1%
10 $35,196 $51,716 76.9% 79.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Western Illinois University the cheapest option for dietetics students?

Western Illinois University charges just $11,592 per year after aid, making it the most affordable dietetics program in the state. The school maintains a 75% acceptance rate while keeping costs low through its rural Macomb location and public funding structure.

How do graduation rates vary among Illinois dietetics programs?

Graduation rates range from 44.8% at Western Illinois University to 76.9% at Loyola University Chicago. Private schools generally show higher completion rates, with Bradley University at 72.1% and Dominican University at 62.4% outperforming most public alternatives.

Does attending a more expensive program lead to higher earnings?

Not necessarily based on available data. University of Illinois Chicago graduates earn $42,682 despite the program costing only $12,313 annually. Dominican University charges $15,113 but graduates earn $32,925, while Northern Illinois University costs $12,909 with graduates earning $31,374.

Where do Illinois dietetics graduates typically find employment?

Chicago's medical district offers the most opportunities, housing major healthcare systems that employ clinical nutritionists. The state's agriculture industry, centered in downstate regions, also provides food service and corporate nutrition positions for dietetics professionals.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.