At $3,816/yr net price, City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College graduates earn $36,484/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,484/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $3,816 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $15,264 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,484/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,484/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 6.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,997 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,271/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,885/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,710/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $6,217/yr |
| $110,001+ | $10,722/yr |
The Risk Factor
31.5% of students at City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Harry S Truman College offers one of the strongest community college value propositions in Chicago, with a net price under $4,000 annually and relatively low median debt of $7,000. Your earnings potential ten years out averages $36,500, which translates to solid returns given the minimal upfront investment.
The 31% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk at Truman College. You face real odds of leaving without completing your program, which means paying tuition costs without gaining the credential that drives higher earnings. This completion challenge is particularly important to consider if you're academically underprepared or juggling significant work and family obligations.
Truman's health science programs typically offer the strongest earning potential, aligning with Chicago's strong healthcare job market. Nursing, medical assistant, and health information technology programs connect directly to regional employers. Business and computer information systems also show decent returns given the low program costs.
You should avoid programs with limited local job prospects or those that primarily serve as stepping stones to four-year degrees unless you have concrete transfer plans. Liberal arts coursework makes financial sense only if you're certain about transferring to complete a bachelor's degree.
Financial aid covers just 21% of students, suggesting most pay out of pocket or through minimal borrowing. This works in your favor if you can afford the low sticker price. Focus on completing your program within the expected timeframe to maximize your return and minimize opportunity costs from extended enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College worth the cost?
At $3,816 per year, Harry S Truman College offers one of the most affordable education options in Chicago. The low net price makes it a reasonable choice for students seeking basic credentials or career training without significant debt risk.
What is the job market like for City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College graduates?
Graduates earn a median of $36,484 ten years after enrollment, which is modest but typical for community college programs. The low graduation rate of 31.5% indicates many students don't complete their programs, which limits earning potential.
How much debt do students graduate with from Harry S Truman College?
Students who borrow graduate with a median debt of $6,997, which is manageable compared to four-year colleges. The combination of low tuition and available financial aid keeps debt levels reasonable for most students.
Which programs at City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College have the best ROI?
Healthcare programs like nursing and medical assisting typically offer the strongest return on investment at community colleges. Trade programs in areas like automotive technology or HVAC can also lead to solid middle-class wages relative to the low cost of attendance.