Compare 6 Neuroscience. programs in Illinois. Average earnings: $36,996.
Neuroscience programs produce graduates earning between $26,251 and $55,298—a $29K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 6 ranked programs in Illinois, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
University of Illinois Chicago's Neuroscience program leads with graduates earning $55,298, significantly above the state average of $37,000. The data puts a public university first, with Augustana College second at $40,940 and University of Chicago third at $37,246—proving program outcomes don't track overall school rankings.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. UIC graduates borrow $16,704 and face just a 7% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. Meanwhile, Augustana students face a 20.2% burden despite lower earnings, showing that program choice affects both income and financial freedom.
Highest program earnings: $55,298
Strong outcomes with 78.5% acceptance
7% payment burden | Excellent
18.7% family burden | Challenging
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $55,298 | 69 | $16,704 | Excellent | $24,323 | Challenging | |
| #2 | Augustana CollegePrivate | $40,940 | 29 | $27,000 | Challenging | $37,219 | High |
| #3 | University Of ChicagoPrivate | $37,246 | 61 | $15,000 | Manageable | $33,297 | High |
| #4 | Northwestern UniversityPrivate | $35,334 | 136 | $15,000 | Manageable | $26,966 | High |
| #5 | North Central CollegePrivate | $26,908 | 23 | $24,500 | High | $30,000 | High |
| #6 | Loyola University ChicagoPrivate | $26,251 | 85 | $24,157 | High | $54,045 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
