About South Suburban College
The financial picture makes this college particularly attractive for working-class families. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $1,923 annually after aid, while even middle-income families earning $75,000-$110,000 pay only $7,560. Graduates earn a median of $33,680 ten years after starting, which represents solid returns given the low cost of attendance. The 89.3% employment rate shows employers value the practical skills students develop here.
The Bulldogs compete in seven varsity sports through the NCCAA, with 129 student-athletes sharing $444,720 in athletic scholarships. The 17:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personal attention despite the college's size. With 94.16% of students from Illinois, this campus feels like a true community center for the south suburbs.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 17:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 34.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 24.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $33,680
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $42,682 |
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | Associate | $22,329 |
Campus Life
The 2,012 students commute to this community college campus, creating a quieter atmosphere on weekends. Most students juggle work with classes, reflected in the high 89.3% employment rate after graduation. The diverse student population includes 54.77% Black students and 23.26% Hispanic students, making it one of the most diverse community colleges in the Chicago suburbs. Students often head into Chicago for weekend entertainment, taking advantage of the school's proximity to the city. The 17:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know students by name in most classes. Campus life centers around academic buildings rather than dormitories, with the Bulldogs competing in seven NCCAA sports that draw modest but enthusiastic crowds.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1927
Campus Safety (2023)
1 total reported incident. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 15°–31°F
- July Avg
- 63°–83°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 42.1"
- Annual Snowfall
- 28.2"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 32.1%
- Women
- 67.9%
- White
- 13.3%
- Black
- 54.8%
- Hispanic
- 23.3%
- Asian
- 1.9%
- In-State Students
- 94.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 22.4%
Location
- Address
- South Holland, Illinois 60473-1200
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $33,680
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $42,879
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $24,300
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements at South Suburban College?
South Suburban College maintains an open admission policy typical of community colleges, welcoming students regardless of their high school GPA or test scores. The college serves 2,012 students and focuses on providing accessible higher education to the diverse South Holland community. Students can enroll in certificate programs, associate degrees, or transfer pathways to four-year universities.
How much does South Suburban College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $2,919 annually, making this one of the most affordable college options in Illinois. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay just $1,923 after aid, while in-state tuition starts at $5,093 before financial assistance. The college keeps costs low as part of its mission to serve working-class families in the south Chicago suburbs.
What is the student-faculty ratio at South Suburban College?
Classes average 17 students per faculty member, allowing for more personalized attention than typical at large universities. The college operates on a semester system and emphasizes hands-on learning in career-focused programs. Faculty often have industry experience and maintain strong connections with local employers in the Chicago metropolitan area.
What are the employment outcomes for South Suburban College graduates?
Graduates achieve an 89.3% employment rate, reflecting the college's strong focus on workforce development and career training. Alumni earn a median of $33,680 ten years after enrollment, with many entering fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and business services. The college has built partnerships with local employers to ensure programs align with regional job market demands.
What is the student body like at South Suburban College?
The student population is 67.89% women and predominantly serves students of color, with 54.77% Black and 23.26% Hispanic enrollment. Nearly all students (94.16%) come from Illinois, creating a tight-knit community atmosphere. The college has historically served as an educational anchor for South Holland and surrounding communities since its founding in 1927.
Does South Suburban College offer athletic programs?
The Bulldogs compete in 7 varsity sports through the NCCAA with 129 total student-athletes. The college awards $444,720 in athletic scholarships, providing opportunities for students to continue their sports careers while pursuing their education. Athletics serve as both a recruitment tool and a way to build campus community at this commuter-focused institution.
