At $26,933/yr net price, Chamberlain University-Illinois graduates earn $92,405/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $58,405/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $26,933 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $107,732 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $92,405/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$58,405/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,919 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $23,886/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $23,216/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $25,851/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $35,946/yr |
| $110,001+ | $36,221/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $127,754 | $39,000 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Certificate | $106,421 | $30,922 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $90,893 | $42,611 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $71,315 | $22,213 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $54,630 |
The Risk Factor
50.0% of students at Chamberlain University-Illinois graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Chamberlain University-Illinois delivers strong financial returns for nursing students but carries significant risks tied to its low graduation rates and for-profit structure. Your median 10-year earnings of $92,405 substantially exceed the national average, driven entirely by the school's focus on nursing programs.
The nursing programs show clear earning potential, with top performers reaching $127,754 annually. However, debt loads vary dramatically across nursing specializations, ranging from $22,213 to $42,611. You need to research which specific nursing track you're entering, as some combinations of lower earnings and higher debt create problematic ratios.
The 50% graduation rate represents a major financial hazard. If you don't complete your degree, you'll carry debt without the credential needed for higher nursing salaries. The 77% retention rate suggests many students struggle in their first year, making your academic preparation and support systems critical factors.
Only 30% of students receive financial aid, indicating limited institutional support for reducing costs. This places the full financial burden on most families, making the $26,933 annual net price particularly steep for middle-income students who don't qualify for need-based aid.
You should choose Chamberlain if you're academically prepared for nursing coursework, can afford the full cost of attendance, and have researched specific program outcomes. Look elsewhere if you need significant financial aid, are uncertain about completing a nursing degree, or want broader career flexibility. The school's narrow program focus means switching majors isn't an option if nursing doesn't work out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chamberlain University-Illinois worth the cost for nursing students?
Yes, if you complete the program. Nursing graduates earn strong salaries ranging from $54,630 to $127,754 depending on specialization, but the 50% graduation rate means half of students don't finish and may still carry debt.
What is the ROI for Chamberlain University-Illinois compared to other nursing schools?
The $92,405 average earnings after 10 years provide solid returns for nursing graduates, but the $26,933 annual cost is higher than many public alternatives. The relatively low median debt of $20,919 helps offset the higher tuition.
How much debt do Chamberlain University-Illinois graduates typically have?
The median debt is $20,919, which is manageable for nursing salaries. However, students who don't graduate (50% of enrollees) may still accumulate significant debt without the earning power to repay it.
Are there better alternatives to Chamberlain University-Illinois for nursing education?
Public nursing programs typically cost less and often have higher graduation rates. Chamberlain's main advantage is the 91% acceptance rate, making it accessible for students who can't get into more selective programs.