Ambria College of Nursing
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 85/100
Median Earnings (10yr): $67,290 | Median Debt: $15,438
Student Body Size: 123 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 43.7% | Federal Loan Rate: 54.9%
Average Faculty Salary: $5,845/month
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
Graduates of Ambria College of Nursing earn a median salary of $67,290 ten years after enrollment, 65% above the national average. This represents a $32,290/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $968,700 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
The median student debt at graduation is $15,438, 28% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $168/month, with a total repayment of $20,160 (including $4,722 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.23x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Financial Aid Profile
43.7% of students at Ambria College of Nursing receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 32% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.
54.9% of students take federal loans, 17% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.
Average faculty salary: $5,845/month, 33% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Ambria College of Nursing enrolls 123 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 76/100 (higher = more diverse). Ambria College of Nursing has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.
Student body composition: White 24%, Hispanic 29%, Black 17%, Asian 25%.
Ambria College of Nursing offers personalized education with diverse student body and good earnings potential.
- Ambria College of Nursing: Your Pathway to a Rewarding Healthcare Career in Chicagoland
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- Invest in Your Future: A Focused Nursing Education at Ambria College of Nursing
Report Card: Overall Grade B+
Ambria College of Nursing receives an overall grade of B+ based on six dimensions:
- Outcomes: B+
College Analysis
Ambria College of Nursing is a Private For-Profit institution in Hoffman Estates, IL with approximately 123 students. Ambria College of Nursing has a small student body, which may offer personalized attention. The college has a diverse student body, with a significant Hispanic and Asian presence. Graduates have a median earnings of $67,290 after 10 years, indicating a good return on investment. The college's median debt of $15,438 is relatively low compared to many nursing programs.
The Verdict: Is Ambria College of Nursing Worth It?
Ambria College of Nursing presents a mixed value proposition. With a median 10-year earning potential of $67,290 and a median debt of $15,438, the return on investment appears somewhat modest but potentially manageable. The debt-to-earnings ratio is favorable, suggesting that graduates can likely pay off their loans within a reasonable timeframe, perhaps 2-3 years, assuming consistent employment at or above the median salary. However, the lack of publicly available data on admission and graduation rates, along with specific tuition costs, makes a precise financial calculation difficult. The median earnings are competitive within the nursing field, but it's crucial for prospective students to investigate the specific program costs and compare them against the earning potential of graduates from similar nursing programs in the region. Given the specialized nature of nursing and the consistent demand for qualified professionals, a degree from Ambria can lead to a stable and respectable career. However, without more transparency on costs and outcomes, it's difficult to definitively label it a 'gem' or 'overpriced.' It appears to be a functional pathway to a nursing career, but students should conduct thorough due diligence on tuition and compare it rigorously with other nursing programs before committing.
Return on Investment
Given the low median debt and good earnings potential, the degree from Ambria College of Nursing appears to be a worthwhile investment.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Ambria College of Nursing: $15,438. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $175/month. Total repaid: $21,000 ($5,562 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.4 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $21,000.
Strengths
- Personalized attention and diverse student body
- Good earnings potential
- Lower median debt
Weaknesses
- Smaller size may limit resources and extracurricular activities
- Private for-profit status may raise concerns about accreditation and financial stability
Academic Profile
Ambria College of Nursing is dedicated to providing a specialized education in the nursing field, with its core strength lying in its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for entry-level nursing positions. Given its status as a private, for-profit institution, the academic approach is often highly structured and career-oriented, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure exams and the demands of the healthcare industry. Faculty quality, while specific data like salary is unavailable, is expected to be composed of experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom and clinical settings. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly provided, is likely to be relatively low given the small student population of 123, allowing for more personalized attention and mentorship. Research opportunities may be less emphasized compared to larger universities, with the focus being on applied learning and clinical competency. Academic support resources are crucial in a demanding program like nursing; students can expect dedicated academic advising to help navigate the curriculum, tutoring services, and potentially workshops focused on study skills and NCLEX preparation. The college's commitment is to ensure students successfully complete their program and pass their licensing exams, making academic support a cornerstone of the student experience.
Financial Aid Guide for Ambria College of Nursing
Pell Grant recipients: 43.7%. Students taking federal loans: 54.9%.
Navigating financial aid at Ambria College of Nursing requires a clear understanding of its private, for-profit model. As such, federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, will likely form the backbone of most aid packages. While specific data on the Pell Grant Rate and Federal Loan Rate is not available, it's reasonable to assume a significant portion of students utilize these federal programs to finance their education. Merit-based aid is less common at institutions of this type, with the focus typically being on need-based aid. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible, ideally by the priority deadline, to be considered for all available federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Work-study programs, if offered, provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help cover educational expenses. Typical aid packages will vary widely based on individual financial circumstances, but for students with demonstrated financial need, a combination of Pell Grants (which can range up to $7,395 for the 2023-2024 academic year), federal direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans (up to $12,500 for dependent undergraduates annually), and potentially state grants will be common. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid might be limited and often come from external organizations or specific nursing foundations rather than institutional scholarships. Negotiating aid is generally not a strong suit at for-profit institutions; aid packages are often standardized based on federal guidelines and institutional costs. Focus on maximizing your FAFSA submission and exploring external scholarships to supplement your aid.
Hidden Costs at Ambria College of Nursing
- Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the specific courses and required resources.
- Technology fees, often not explicitly stated, can add $100-$300 per semester to cover access to online learning platforms and software.
- Background checks and drug screenings, essential for clinical placements, can cost between $100 and $250 annually.
- Uniforms and required professional attire for clinical rotations, including scrubs, stethoscopes, and specific footwear, may cost $300-$600.
- Transportation to clinical sites, which can be varied and sometimes distant, may incur significant fuel or public transit costs, potentially $50-$200 per month.
- Licensure exam application fees (e.g., NCLEX) are a mandatory cost upon graduation, typically around $200-$300.
- Student liability insurance, often required for clinical participation, can add $50-$150 per year.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Ambria College of Nursing, located in Hoffman Estates, IL, positions its graduates primarily within the healthcare sector, with a strong emphasis on registered nursing roles. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Ambria is not publicly detailed, graduates can expect to find opportunities within the extensive network of hospitals and healthcare systems in the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Key employers in this region include large health systems like Northwestern Medicine, Advocate Aurora Health, and CommonSpirit Health, which frequently hire registered nurses for various specialties. The primary industry cluster for Ambria alumni is, unsurprisingly, general medical and surgical hospitals, followed by outpatient care centers and skilled nursing facilities. Information regarding graduate school placement rates is not readily available, suggesting that the majority of graduates enter the workforce directly after obtaining their nursing credentials. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for specialized, smaller institutions. Career services at Ambria are likely focused on job placement assistance within the local healthcare market, resume building, and interview preparation. Internship pipelines are crucial for nursing programs, and Ambria likely facilitates clinical rotations within affiliated healthcare facilities in the suburban Chicago area, providing essential hands-on experience. Geographic hiring patterns for Ambria graduates are predominantly concentrated in Illinois, particularly within a 50-mile radius of Hoffman Estates, leveraging the dense healthcare infrastructure of the Chicago region. Some graduates may also seek opportunities in neighboring states like Wisconsin and Indiana, depending on licensure and job market demand.
Campus Life & Culture at Ambria College of Nursing
Ambria College of Nursing attracts students who are highly motivated and focused on pursuing a career in nursing, often seeking a direct path to licensure and employment. The student body likely comprises a mix of recent high school graduates and individuals seeking a career change, drawn to the specialized, career-focused nature of the institution. Students who thrive here are typically self-disciplined, possess strong time management skills, and are committed to supporting their peers through a demanding academic program.
Ambria College of Nursing, nestled in Hoffman Estates, IL, offers a focused academic environment that naturally shapes its campus culture. As a private, for-profit institution with a smaller student body of around 123, the social scene is less about sprawling quads and large-scale events and more about building strong, cohort-based relationships. The primary focus is on the rigorous nursing curriculum, meaning social life often revolves around shared academic experiences, study groups, and supporting each other through demanding coursework. While traditional campus life elements like extensive clubs or athletics are limited due to the school's size and specialized mission, students often find community through shared professional aspirations. The 'vibe' is one of intense dedication and mutual support, where classmates become a close-knit support system. Housing and dining are not typically managed by the college itself, as is common with many specialized, for-profit institutions. Students usually arrange their own off-campus housing in the surrounding Hoffman Estates area, which offers a range of apartment complexes and rental options. This independence in living arrangements means students often commute or arrange carpools, fostering a practical, adult-learner approach to their education. Dining is similarly self-directed, with students utilizing local eateries or preparing their own meals. The emphasis is squarely on academic success and preparing for a career in nursing, with social interactions often stemming organically from shared academic goals and the close proximity of students during classes and clinical rotations.
Campus Highlights
- Specialized focus on nursing education, ensuring a curriculum tailored to healthcare careers.
- Small student body fostering a close-knit, cohort-based learning environment.
- Emphasis on practical, hands-on clinical experience integrated into the curriculum.
- Faculty comprised of experienced healthcare professionals bringing real-world insights.
- Career-oriented approach designed to prepare graduates for licensure and employment.
- Location in Hoffman Estates provides access to a suburban Chicago environment with diverse healthcare facilities for clinicals.
Location & Regional Advantages
Ambria College of Nursing's location in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, offers a strategic advantage due to its proximity to the vast and dynamic healthcare market of the Chicago metropolitan area. This region is a hub for numerous hospitals, clinics, and specialized healthcare facilities, providing a robust job market for nursing graduates. Major healthcare systems such as Northwestern Medicine, Advocate Aurora Health, and Amita Health have a significant presence, creating consistent demand for skilled nurses. The cost of living in Hoffman Estates and the surrounding suburbs is moderate compared to downtown Chicago, offering a more affordable lifestyle for students and recent graduates. While not a major industry hub in terms of technology or finance, the sheer volume of healthcare institutions compensates for this, ensuring ample career opportunities. The quality of life in the suburban Chicago area is generally high, with good schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Safety is typically good in Hoffman Estates, which is a well-established suburban community. The weather is characteristic of the Midwest, with distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm summers. This location provides graduates with immediate access to a dense network of potential employers, facilitating easier job placement and career progression within the healthcare sector without the need for extensive relocation.
How to Get Into Ambria College of Nursing
Gaining admission to Ambria College of Nursing is a focused process centered on demonstrating a strong commitment to a nursing career and meeting prerequisite academic standards. As a specialized institution, Ambria likely values candidates who have a clear understanding of the nursing profession and possess the academic foundation to succeed in a rigorous program. While specific GPA ranges and test score requirements (SAT/ACT) are not provided, prospective students should aim for strong academic performance in high school, particularly in science and math courses. A competitive GPA would likely be 3.0 or higher. Since Ambria is a private, for-profit college, the admissions process may be less about selectivity based on standardized test scores and more about ensuring candidates are prepared for the program's demands and have a genuine interest in nursing. The application will likely require transcripts, a personal essay, and possibly letters of recommendation. Your essay is a critical opportunity to articulate your passion for nursing, explain any gaps in your academic record, and showcase your resilience and dedication. Demonstrated interest can be shown by attending virtual or in-person information sessions, reaching out to the admissions office with thoughtful questions, and submitting your application promptly. The timeline should involve completing your FAFSA early, ideally by March for the following academic year, and submitting your application well before any stated deadlines to allow ample time for review and potential follow-up.
How Ambria College of Nursing Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Chamberlain University (multiple campuses, including Illinois), Resurrection University (Chicago, IL), Lewis University (Romeoville, IL - Nursing Program), Elmhurst University (Elmhurst, IL - Nursing Program)
Advantages
- Potentially smaller class sizes due to its size, allowing for more personalized attention.
- Focused curriculum specifically on nursing, potentially leading to specialized skill development.
- Location in a suburban area offering a potentially lower cost of living than urban campuses.
Disadvantages
- Less brand recognition and potentially smaller alumni network compared to larger, established universities.
- Limited program offerings beyond nursing, which might restrict career exploration for some students.
- As a for-profit institution, it may face different perceptions regarding value and long-term career support compared to non-profit peers.
Best For
- Students looking for a large campus with extensive resources may find Ambria College of Nursing less appealing.
- Those seeking a more diverse range of extracurricular activities may prefer larger institutions.
- Students with a preference for public or non-profit institutions may not find this private for-profit college as attractive.
Avoid If
- Students who are looking for a more comprehensive range of academic resources and extracurricular activities may want to consider larger institutions.
- Those with a preference for public or non-profit institutions may want to explore other options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ambria College of Nursing
How much does it cost to attend Ambria College of Nursing?
In-state tuition at Ambria College of Nursing is N/A per year, and out-of-state tuition is N/A per year. The median student debt at graduation is $15,438.
How much do Ambria College of Nursing graduates earn?
The median earnings for Ambria College of Nursing graduates 10 years after enrollment is $67,290. With median debt of $15,438, graduates earn roughly 4.4x their debt level annually.
How big is Ambria College of Nursing?
Ambria College of Nursing has approximately 123 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Hoffman Estates, IL and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Where is Ambria College of Nursing located?
Ambria College of Nursing is located in Hoffman Estates, IL. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 123 students.
How much student debt do Ambria College of Nursing graduates have?
The median student debt for Ambria College of Nursing graduates is $15,438. With median earnings of $67,290 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 23%.
Is Ambria College of Nursing a good college?
Ambria College of Nursing has a graduation rate of N/A and median post-graduation earnings of $67,290. The college's small size allows for close interactions with faculty.
How does Ambria College of Nursing compare to similar colleges?
A significant portion of students are from Hispanic and Asian backgrounds. Compared to peer institutions, Ambria College of Nursing offers a more personalized educational experience with lower debt and good earnings potential.
What career prospects do Ambria College of Nursing graduates have?
Graduates from Ambria College of Nursing are well-positioned for a rewarding career in nursing with strong earning potential.
What should prospective students know about Ambria College of Nursing?
Ambria College of Nursing is well-suited for students seeking a personalized educational experience with lower debt and good earnings potential.
What makes Ambria College of Nursing stand out?
Graduates have a median earnings of $67,290 after 10 years.
What are the pros and cons of attending Ambria College of Nursing?
Median debt is $15,438, which is lower than many nursing programs.
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Similar Schools
- Chamberlain University (multiple campuses, including Illinois)
- Resurrection University (Chicago, IL)
- Lewis University (Romeoville, IL - Nursing Program)
- Elmhurst University (Elmhurst, IL - Nursing Program)
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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.