At $2,651/yr net price, City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College graduates earn $41,625/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,625/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $2,651 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $10,604 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,625/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,625/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 32.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $1,621/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $2,658/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $4,708/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $5,744/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,500/yr |
The Risk Factor
32.5% of students at City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright 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
City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College delivers strong financial returns despite low completion rates. Your net cost of $2,651 per year makes this one of the most affordable educational investments in Chicago, and median earnings of $41,625 ten years out provide solid returns even if you don't complete your degree.
The graduation rate of 32.5% presents the main financial risk. You face better than average odds of leaving without a credential, though the low debt load of $6,500 median means failure won't devastate your finances. The school works best if you have clear career goals and can stay focused through completion.
Wilbur Wright's location in Chicago's northwest side positions you well for healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics jobs that don't require four-year degrees. The school's nursing and allied health programs typically offer the strongest earning potential, while general studies programs provide less clear career pathways.
You should consider this school if you need flexible scheduling for work or family obligations, want to minimize education debt, or plan to transfer to a four-year school after completing general education requirements. The low cost makes it reasonable even for exploratory coursework.
Skip Wilbur Wright if you need extensive student support services to succeed academically, want a traditional college experience, or lack specific career direction. The school offers limited financial aid beyond federal programs, with only 26.9% of students receiving assistance, so you'll likely pay the full net price out of pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College worth the cost?
With a net price of $2,651 per year and graduates earning $41,625 after 10 years, Wilbur Wright College offers decent value for the low cost. However, the 32.5% graduation rate means many students don't finish their programs.
What is the return on investment for City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College graduates?
Graduates typically earn $41,625 ten years after starting, which is reasonable given the low annual cost of $2,651. The median debt of $6,500 is manageable compared to most colleges.
Do City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College students graduate with high debt?
No, the median debt is only $6,500, which is well below the national average. The low tuition costs help keep borrowing minimal for most students.
What are the job prospects after graduating from City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College?
Ten-year earnings average $41,625, which reflects the community college's focus on career training and certificates. The biggest risk is the low 32.5% graduation rate, not post-graduation employment.