Oakton College
Des Plaines, Illinois
About Oakton College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1969, Oakton College is a 2-year college serving students in Des Plaines, Illinois. With a tradition of academic excellence, Oakton College prepares graduates for success in Humanities, Health Professions, Business, and more.
A Diverse Community in Des Plaines
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Oakton College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $5,081, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This commitment-based policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Oakton College emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Oakton College students
| First-year retention rate | 72% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $43,284 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $47,852 |
| Median debt at graduation | $5,250 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Oakton College
| Total enrollment | 7,032 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 7,032 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 43% |
What you can study at Oakton College
44 programs, most of them in these fields:
Business Management Marketing Support (9)
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping, Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General, Banking and Financial Support Services, and more
Health Professions (6)
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician, Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator, Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician, and more
Engineering Technologies (4)
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician, Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician, and more
Computer Information Sciences (3)
Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications, Information Technology
Education (3)
Early Childhood Education and Teaching, Elementary Education and Teaching, Special Education and Teaching, General
Human Services (3)
Child Care Provider/Assistant, Social Work, Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling
Mechanic and Repair Technologies (3)
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician, Electromechanical Technologies/Technicians, Other, Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician
Visual and Performing Arts (3)
Fine/Studio Arts, General, Graphic Design, Music, General
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