Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 46.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $37,928
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $8,029
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 36.6%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $85/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $53,497 | $12,786 |
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | Associate | $24,730 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,781 | $8,000 |
Outcomes Overview
Highland graduates earn a median of $37,928 ten years after leaving, while carrying just $8,029 in debt. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 21% sits well below the concerning 30% threshold that financial experts warn against. Monthly loan payments of $85 consume only 2.7% of typical graduate income, making repayment manageable for most. The college's strong ties to local manufacturing and healthcare create direct pathways into stable regional careers. An impressive 93.6% employment rate reflects the practical, job-focused training that northwestern Illinois employers value. With low debt loads and solid earning potential in a affordable rural market, Highland delivers a strong return on investment for career-focused students.