At $7,210/yr net price, Southwestern Illinois College graduates earn $36,884/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,884/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,210 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $28,840 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,884/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,884/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 10 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 36.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,908 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,676/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,429/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,275/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $11,283/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,346/yr |
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 | $53,608 | $7,500 |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Associate | $47,260 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $46,673 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,087 | $8,550 |
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | Associate | $35,213 | $4,500 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $33,993 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $32,711 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $32,321 | |
| Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations. | Associate | $31,581 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $30,554 |
The Risk Factor
36.9% of students at Southwestern Illinois 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
Southwestern Illinois College delivers solid financial returns for specific career-focused programs, though your success depends heavily on choosing the right major. The $7,210 annual cost makes this one of the more affordable pathways to middle-class earnings in the St. Louis metro area.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $53,608 annually against just $7,500 in debt. Clinical lab science and IT management also provide strong returns at $47,260 and $46,673 respectively. These health and technology programs align well with regional hospital systems and the growing biotech sector around St. Louis.
The 37% graduation rate signals a significant risk. Many students leave without credentials, making debt without degree completion a real concern. If you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support, community college may not suit your learning style.
This school works best for career changers and working adults who know exactly what they want to study. The nursing program offers a direct path to stable employment, while IT and allied health programs provide solid middle-class incomes. Avoid general studies or programs without clear career outcomes.
With only 26% of students receiving financial aid, most pay out of pocket or through employer programs. The low debt levels reflect both affordable tuition and the practical nature of most programs. You can likely work while studying, especially in evening or weekend programs designed for working adults.
Choose Southwestern Illinois College if you want specific job training at rock-bottom prices. Look elsewhere if you need extensive academic support or want a traditional college experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southwestern Illinois College worth the money?
Southwestern Illinois College offers decent value with a low net price of $7,210 per year and minimal debt of $6,908. However, the 37% graduation rate is concerning, and average earnings of $36,884 after 10 years are below national averages for college graduates.
What programs at Southwestern Illinois College have the best ROI?
Nursing programs at Southwestern Illinois College provide the strongest return, with graduates earning around $53,608 annually. Clinical laboratory science and IT management also pay well at $47,260 and $46,673 respectively, making these programs worth the investment.
How much debt do Southwestern Illinois College graduates typically have?
Southwestern Illinois College graduates leave with relatively low debt of $6,908 on average. This manageable debt load, combined with the school's affordable tuition, reduces financial risk compared to four-year institutions.
Does Southwestern Illinois College prepare students for good-paying jobs?
Southwestern Illinois College's job preparation varies significantly by program. Nursing and healthcare programs lead to solid middle-class salaries, but the low graduation rate suggests many students don't complete their programs successfully.