Compare 26 Nursing Science. programs in Illinois. Average earnings: $74,059.
Nursing Science programs produce graduates earning between $69,679 and $97,713—a $28K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 26 ranked programs in Illinois, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
Governors State University's Nursing Science program leads with graduates earning $97,713, significantly outpacing the state average of $74,059. Following closely, Mckendree University produces graduates earning $82,082, while Benedictine University rounds out the top three at $81,995—proving that program-level factors drive outcomes more than school brand.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Governors State graduates borrow $18,618 and face just a 3.4% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.19, graduates can pay off their student loans with about 2.3 months of salary.
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 →
