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Cheapest Foods Colleges in Illinois

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Public universities in Illinois deliver Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services education at dramatically different price points, with Western Illinois University charging just $11,592 net cost while Bradley University reaches $23,572. This $12,000 gap reflects the state's mix of affordable public options and private institutions serving students across Illinois's food industry sectors. Chicago's restaurant scene and the state's agricultural economy create steady demand for nutrition professionals, while the MAP Grant program helps qualifying students access these programs regardless of institutional type.
5
Programs
$11,592 – $23,572
Net Price Range
$29,957
Avg. Program Earnings
57.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,592 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
2 $15,113 $37,844 62.4% 89.5%
3 $16,177 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
4 $23,529 $34,290 51.0% 93.1%
5 $23,572 $39,680 72.1% 75.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the large cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Western Illinois University's public funding allows it to offer nutrition programs at $11,592 net cost, while private institutions like Bradley University charge $23,572. Public universities receive state appropriations that help keep tuition lower, though private schools often provide more financial aid to bridge the gap.

How do graduation rates vary among these affordable nutrition programs?

Bradley University leads with a 72.1% graduation rate despite being the most expensive option, while Western Illinois University graduates 44.8% of students at the lowest cost. Dominican University achieves a strong 62.4% graduation rate at a moderate $15,113 net price point.

Where do graduates typically find employment in Illinois's food industry?

Illinois nutrition graduates often work in Chicago's extensive healthcare systems, school districts, and restaurant industry. The state's agricultural sector and food processing companies also employ dietitians and food scientists, with starting salaries around $30,000 based on recent graduate data.

More Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services Rankings

Best Value Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services in Illinois Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services Under $20,000 in Illinois

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