Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 19.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $36,696
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $11,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 24.8%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $117/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 | $56,867 | $14,500 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $53,697 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $26,353 | $13,949 |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs. | Associate | $23,649 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $17,950 | $12,100 |
Outcomes Overview
Prairie State graduates earn a median of $36,696 ten years after leaving, while carrying typical debt of $11,000. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 30%, well below the concerning 40% threshold. Monthly loan payments of $117 represent just 3.8% of median income. The college's employment rate hits 90.7%, reflecting strong job placement in healthcare, manufacturing, and skilled trades that dominate the south Chicago suburbs. Many graduates enter associate-degree careers like dental hygienist, radiologic technologist, or welding inspector. Others transfer to four-year schools using Prairie State's pathway agreements. With low debt loads and solid employment outcomes in growing fields, this represents a strong return on investment for career-focused students.