Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $56,899/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$22,899/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,000 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Doctoral | $88,198 | $145,288 |
| Psychology, Other. | Doctoral | $69,338 | $158,875 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $66,250 | $206,673 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Certificate | $48,628 | $36,238 |
| Psychology, General. | Master | $48,265 | $62,294 |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $46,833 | $82,748 |
Analysis
The Chicago School at Chicago delivers mixed financial returns, with some programs offering strong earning potential while others saddle graduates with concerning debt loads. The school's median debt of $20,000 is reasonable, but this figure masks dangerous variations across programs.
Business Administration stands out as the clear financial winner, generating $88,198 in median earnings despite higher debt of $145,288. Psychology programs tell a more troubling story. The specialized Psychology, Other track pays $69,338 annually but carries $158,875 in debt. Most concerning is Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, where one track produces median earnings of just $48,628 against $36,238 in debt while another version of the same program leaves graduates earning $66,250 but owing $206,673.
You face significant financial risk if you pursue psychology programs here. The debt-to-income ratios in clinical psychology programs are particularly dangerous, with some graduates carrying debt loads more than three times their starting salaries. Chicago's competitive healthcare job market may not provide enough premium salaries to justify these debt levels.
This school makes financial sense if you plan to study business administration and can leverage Chicago's corporate job market. Psychology students should seriously consider whether the specialized training justifies the debt burden, especially given that many counseling positions require additional licensing and supervision periods with reduced pay.
With less than half of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited. Focus on negotiating your aid package aggressively, particularly for psychology programs where the debt risk is highest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Chicago School at Chicago worth the cost?
The Chicago School at Chicago shows mixed value depending on your program. Business graduates earn $88,198 annually while psychology majors typically earn $48,000-69,000, which may not justify the private school cost structure.
What is the average debt for The Chicago School at Chicago graduates?
The median debt is $20,000, which is relatively low for a private institution. However, many psychology programs lead to earnings around $48,000-66,000, creating potential repayment challenges even with lower debt levels.
Which programs at The Chicago School at Chicago have the best ROI?
Business Administration and Management programs offer the strongest return with graduates earning $88,198 annually. Psychology programs show weaker ROI with most graduates earning under $70,000 despite the school's focus on these fields.
How do The Chicago School at Chicago graduates' salaries compare to the cost?
Graduate earnings of $56,899 on average are below typical expectations for private school graduates. Only business program graduates see strong financial returns that clearly justify private tuition costs.