Prairie State College
Chicago Heights, Illinois
About Prairie State College
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1957, Prairie State College is a 2-year college serving students in Chicago Heights, Illinois. With a tradition of academic excellence, Prairie State College prepares graduates for success in Health Professions, Humanities, Mechanic & Repair Technology, and more.
A Diverse Community in Chicago Heights
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. With a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Prairie State College is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $3,725, 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
Prairie State 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 Prairie State College students
| First-year retention rate | 55% |
|---|---|
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $32,876 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $36,696 |
| Median debt at graduation | $11,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Prairie State College
| Total enrollment | 3,045 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 3,045 |
| International students | 2% |
| First-generation students | 39% |
What you can study at Prairie State College
26 programs, most of them in these fields:
Health Professions (4)
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist, Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Mammography Technology/Technician, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (4)
Commercial Photography, Fine/Studio Arts, General, Graphic Communications, General, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (3)
Accounting and Business/Management, Business Administration and Management, General, Operations Management and Supervision
Engineering Technologies (3)
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician, Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician, Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician
Homeland Security Law Enforcement (2)
Criminal Justice/Police Science, Fire Science/Fire-fighting
Mechanic and Repair Technologies (2)
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician, Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician
Multi Interdisciplinary Studies (2)
Biological and Physical Sciences, General Studies
Computer Information Sciences (1)
Information Technology
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