Pacific College of Health and Science
Chicago, IL 60601 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 45/100 | ROI Score: -13 | Affordability Score: 90/100
Tuition (In-State): $7,508 | Out-of-State: $7,508
Graduation Rate: 71.7%
Median Earnings (10yr): $26,209 | Median Debt: $12,271
Student Body Size: 2 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 10.6% | Federal Loan Rate: 10.6%
Average Faculty Salary: $4,333/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Pacific College of Health and Science is $7,508 per year, which is 81% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $7,508/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $30,032 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
71.7% of students at Pacific College of Health and Science complete their degree, 16% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.
Graduates of Pacific College of Health and Science earn a median salary of $26,209 ten years after enrollment, 36% below the national average.
The median student debt at graduation is $12,271, 43% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $133/month, with a total repayment of $15,960 (including $3,689 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.47x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Financial Aid Profile
10.6% of students at Pacific College of Health and Science receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 68% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.
10.6% of students take federal loans, 77% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.
Average faculty salary: $4,333/month, 50% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Pacific College of Health and Science enrolls 2 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Student body composition: White 0%, Hispanic 0%, Black 0%, Asian 0%.
Pacific College of Health and Science: Small Private For-Profit Institution in Chicago
- Pacific College of Health and Science: A Risky Investment with Questionable Career Returns
- Small School, Big Questions: Analyzing the Post-Graduation Path at Pacific College of Health and Science
- Chicago's Health Science Scene: Is Pacific College the Right Launchpad for Your Career?
Report Card: Overall Grade C-
Pacific College of Health and Science receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:
- Academics: C+
- Value: F
- Outcomes: F
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Pacific College of Health and Science is a Private For-Profit institution in Chicago, IL with approximately 2 students. Academics: Offers a range of health and science programs, but lacks diversity in student demographics. Value: High tuition with moderate earnings, leading to a negative ROI. Outcomes: Graduation rate is above average, but median earnings are low, indicating potential financial strain.
The Verdict: Is Pacific College of Health and Science Worth It?
Pacific College of Health and Science presents a concerning value proposition based on the provided data. With a median 10-year earning of $26,209 and median debt of $12,271, the return on investment (ROI) score of -13 is a stark indicator of financial strain. The total cost of tuition, while not explicitly broken down by year, would need to be significantly lower than the reported median earnings to justify the debt burden. A simple calculation shows that it would take approximately 4.7 years of median earnings to repay the median debt, assuming no living expenses or interest accrual. This timeline is extended considerably when factoring in the total cost of education. The low median earnings suggest graduates are entering lower-paying roles, which is a significant drawback for a private for-profit institution that typically aims to provide career-focused education leading to higher earning potential. Given these figures, Pacific College of Health and Science appears to be overpriced, offering a poor financial return for the investment made by its students. It is not a good deal, and prospective students should exercise extreme caution and thoroughly investigate alternative pathways to their desired careers.
Return on Investment
Given the high tuition and debt, coupled with low earnings, the degree may not be worth the cost for most students.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Pacific College of Health and Science: $12,271. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $139/month. Total repaid: $16,680 ($4,409 in interest).
Strengths
- Above-average graduation rate
- Focus on local healthcare jobs
Weaknesses
- Lack of student diversity
- Negative ROI and low earnings
Academic Profile
Pacific College of Health and Science focuses on specialized health science education, offering programs designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare. While specific department strengths are not detailed with the limited student body, the institution's mission suggests a commitment to fields like nursing, allied health, or potentially complementary and alternative medicine. Given the small size, opportunities for research are likely to be highly individualized, with students working closely with faculty on specific projects. Faculty quality can be inferred from the institution's commitment to health science education; however, without faculty salary data or a student-faculty ratio, a precise assessment is challenging. It's reasonable to assume that faculty are experienced practitioners or academics in their respective health science fields. The college does not appear to offer traditional honors programs or extensive study abroad options, aligning with its focused, career-oriented approach. Academic support resources are crucial for any student, and at Pacific College, this likely translates to direct, one-on-one advising and mentorship from faculty, given the extremely low student-to-faculty ratio that is almost certainly implied by a total enrollment of 2 students. Students seeking a highly personalized academic journey in health sciences, with direct faculty engagement, would find this environment conducive to their goals.
Financial Aid Guide for Pacific College of Health and Science
Pell Grant recipients: 10.6%. Students taking federal loans: 10.6%.
Navigating financial aid at Pacific College of Health and Science requires a direct approach, given its unique operational model and limited student body. With an annual tuition of $7,508, the cost of attendance is relatively modest compared to many private institutions. Merit aid is not explicitly detailed, but given the small size, it's possible that individualized financial packages are assembled. Need-based aid is a primary consideration for most students. Families should complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. While the Pell Grant Rate is not provided, students from lower-income backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Federal Direct Loans are a common source of funding, with the median debt at graduation being $12,271, suggesting that many students utilize some form of loan assistance. Work-study opportunities may be available, providing part-time employment to help cover educational expenses. For students with an annual family income below $30,000, it's plausible that a significant portion of tuition could be covered by grants and federal aid, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs considerably. For families with incomes between $30,000 and $75,000, a combination of federal grants, loans, and possibly institutional aid would likely be necessary. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid are not specified, so students should actively seek external scholarships from professional organizations in health sciences or community foundations. Negotiating aid at an institution of this size and type is generally less common than at larger universities, as financial aid packages are often standardized based on federal guidelines and institutional capacity. However, presenting a strong case for extenuating financial circumstances might warrant a conversation with the financial aid office.
Hidden Costs at Pacific College of Health and Science
- Textbooks and course materials can range from $500 to $1,000 per academic year, depending on the specific health science programs and required readings.
- Student fees, which may cover administrative costs or access to certain resources, could add approximately $200 to $500 annually.
- Transportation costs in Chicago, including public transit passes or car expenses (gas, insurance, parking), can easily amount to $1,000 to $3,000 per year.
- Personal living expenses, such as food, toiletries, and entertainment, will vary greatly but could range from $3,000 to $6,000 annually.
- Health insurance is often a requirement for students, especially if they are not covered under a parent's plan, potentially costing $2,000 to $4,000 per year.
- Technology expenses, including a reliable laptop and necessary software for coursework, might be an initial outlay of $500 to $1,500.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Pacific College of Health and Science, a private for-profit institution in Chicago, IL, presents a unique profile for its extremely small student body of just 2 individuals. Given this scale, traditional metrics for alumni outcomes like major employer recruitment, industry clustering, and graduate school placement rates are difficult to ascertain with standard data. However, the institution's focus on health and science suggests potential career paths in healthcare support, medical assisting, and related allied health fields. Graduates might find employment in local healthcare facilities such as Northwestern Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, or smaller clinics and private practices within the greater Chicago area. The industry cluster would likely be concentrated in healthcare services, with specific roles potentially including medical assistants, laboratory technicians, or health information technicians. Without specific data on graduate school placement, it's assumed that a portion of graduates may pursue further education in specialized health science programs, though the median earnings suggest many enter the workforce directly. Notable alumni are not publicly documented, likely due to the institution's size and recent establishment. Career services quality and internship pipelines are also challenging to evaluate given the limited student population; however, for-profit institutions often emphasize practical training and career placement support. Geographic hiring patterns would predominantly favor the Chicago metropolitan area and surrounding Illinois regions, where the demand for healthcare professionals is consistent. The median earnings of $26,209 over a 10-year period indicate that graduates are entering roles that, while providing employment, may not offer rapid salary growth or lead to high-earning positions without further specialization or advanced degrees.
Campus Life & Culture at Pacific College of Health and Science
With an enrollment of only 2 students, Pacific College of Health and Science offers an exceptionally intimate educational environment. The student body is likely composed of individuals highly motivated to enter specific health science professions, seeking a direct and focused path to their careers. This setting would best suit independent, self-directed learners who thrive with close faculty mentorship and are comfortable navigating the broader resources of Chicago to supplement their academic experience.
Pacific College of Health and Science, with its exceptionally small student body of just 2 individuals, offers a campus experience that is inherently intimate and highly personalized. The concept of a traditional 'campus life' as found at larger institutions is redefined here. Social interactions are likely to be deeply integrated with academic pursuits, fostering a unique sense of community among the few students enrolled. Given the size, there are no formal student organizations, Greek life, or athletics in the conventional sense. Instead, the 'vibe' is one of focused, individualistic learning within a supportive, albeit small, academic environment. Students might engage in informal study groups or connect through shared professional interests related to their health science programs. The college's location in Chicago provides access to a vast urban landscape, offering numerous external opportunities for social engagement, cultural enrichment, and networking that can supplement the on-campus experience. Dining options would likely be external, with students utilizing the diverse culinary scene of Chicago, from quick bites in the Loop to more extensive dining experiences. Housing is also not provided on campus, meaning students are responsible for securing their own accommodations in the city, which allows for a choice of neighborhoods that best suit their lifestyle and budget. This setup encourages a high degree of independence and self-direction, preparing students for professional environments where networking and community building often extend beyond formal campus structures.
Campus Highlights
- Highly personalized, one-on-one faculty interaction due to extremely small student body.
- Focused curriculum designed for direct entry into specialized health science careers.
- Urban immersion in Chicago, offering unparalleled access to professional networking and cultural experiences.
- Potential for deep mentorship relationships with faculty who are likely industry professionals.
- Cost-effective tuition compared to many private health science programs.
- Flexibility in housing and lifestyle choices by living independently in Chicago.
Location & Regional Advantages
Pacific College of Health and Science's location in Chicago, Illinois, offers a significant advantage due to the city's status as a major hub for healthcare and life sciences. The local job market is robust, with numerous hospitals, clinics, research institutions, and healthcare systems actively seeking qualified professionals. Major employers like Northwestern Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, and Advocate Health Care provide a substantial base for potential employment for graduates. The cost of living in Chicago is moderate to high compared to national averages, particularly for housing, but it is offset by the concentration of job opportunities and the city's vibrant cultural scene. Proximity to these industry hubs means graduates have direct access to a wide array of internships and entry-level positions. Chicago also boasts a high quality of life, with world-class museums, diverse culinary experiences, extensive public transportation, and numerous parks and recreational areas. While the weather can be harsh in winter, the city's dynamic environment and strong economic base, especially in healthcare, create a favorable landscape for career development post-graduation. The presence of numerous other educational institutions also fosters a rich academic and professional networking environment. This strategic location provides graduates with a strong foundation for launching and advancing their careers in the health and science sectors.
How to Get Into Pacific College of Health and Science
Gaining admission to Pacific College of Health and Science, given its extremely small size and specialized focus, likely involves a straightforward application process emphasizing a genuine interest in health sciences and a clear understanding of the career paths offered. The college does not appear to utilize Early Decision or Early Action, suggesting a standard rolling admissions or set application deadline approach. Admissions likely values candidates who demonstrate a strong motivation for pursuing a career in healthcare, perhaps through relevant volunteer work, shadowing experiences, or a well-articulated personal statement. While GPA and test score ranges are not provided, it's reasonable to infer that a solid academic record is expected, particularly in science-related coursework. The essay is a critical component, offering a platform to showcase passion for the field, resilience, and suitability for a rigorous health science program. Given the limited enrollment, demonstrating 'demonstrated interest' might be as simple as engaging thoughtfully with admissions counselors during inquiries or information sessions. The timeline recommendation would be to apply early in the application cycle, especially if specific program cohorts have limited capacity, to ensure consideration.
How Pacific College of Health and Science Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: National Louis University, DePaul University (specific allied health programs), Chamberlain University (Chicago campus)
Advantages
- Potentially more specialized, hands-on training due to small size
- Focus on specific allied health roles that may have local demand
- Lower overall student body size could mean more personalized attention (if resources allow)
Disadvantages
- Significantly smaller scale limits resources, alumni network, and brand recognition
- Lower median earnings compared to larger, more established institutions
- For-profit model can sometimes lead to higher tuition relative to perceived value
Best For
- Students seeking a diverse student body and a wide range of cultural experiences.
- Prospective students looking for high earning potential and a positive ROI.
- Individuals interested in local healthcare jobs with a focus on health and science.
Avoid If
- Students prioritizing a broad range of extracurricular activities and a diverse campus community.
- Those seeking a high earning potential and a positive return on investment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pacific College of Health and Science
How much does it cost to attend Pacific College of Health and Science?
In-state tuition at Pacific College of Health and Science is $7,508 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $7,508 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $12,271.
What is the graduation rate at Pacific College of Health and Science?
Pacific College of Health and Science has a graduation rate of 71.7%.
How much do Pacific College of Health and Science graduates earn?
The median earnings for Pacific College of Health and Science graduates 10 years after enrollment is $26,209. With median debt of $12,271, graduates earn roughly 2.1x their debt level annually.
How big is Pacific College of Health and Science?
Pacific College of Health and Science has approximately 2 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Chicago, IL and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Is Pacific College of Health and Science worth the cost?
Pacific College of Health and Science has an ROI score of -13 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $7,508 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $26,209, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Pacific College of Health and Science located?
Pacific College of Health and Science is located in Chicago, IL. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 2 students.
How much student debt do Pacific College of Health and Science graduates have?
The median student debt for Pacific College of Health and Science graduates is $12,271. With median earnings of $26,209 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 47%.
Is Pacific College of Health and Science a good college?
Pacific College of Health and Science has a graduation rate of 71.7% and median post-graduation earnings of $26,209. 100% of students are from the same zip code, suggesting a local student body.
How does Pacific College of Health and Science compare to similar colleges?
No diversity in student demographics, with all students being from the same racial/ethnic background. Compared to peer institutions, Pacific College of Health and Science has a higher tuition and debt, but lower earnings and a negative ROI.
What career prospects do Pacific College of Health and Science graduates have?
Graduates from Pacific College of Health and Science may find career opportunities in local healthcare settings, but may struggle with debt and low earnings.
What should prospective students know about Pacific College of Health and Science?
Pacific College of Health and Science is positioned in a competitive market for private for-profit institutions, with a focus on local students and health sciences.
What makes Pacific College of Health and Science stand out?
High tuition and median debt, but low earnings post-graduation.
What are the pros and cons of attending Pacific College of Health and Science?
Graduation rate is above the national average for private for-profit institutions.
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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.