How much does Prairie State College cost?

The average net price at Prairie State College is about $5,280. That's what students actually pay per year after grants and scholarships. Published in-state tuition is $4,176.

How big is Prairie State College?

Prairie State College enrolls about 2,448 students.

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Prairie State College

Chicago Heights, Illinois · Public

$5k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

Value

Campus

Academics

Admissions

Student Life

Overall

About

Prairie State College is located in Chicago Heights, Illinois. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 2,448 students.

prairiestate.edu

Hispanic-Serving

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value

$5kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$4,176

Out-of-state tuition$11,064

Avg aid package$7,897

Students receiving aid36%

Pell grant recipients36%

Prairie State College offers an affordable education with in-state tuition around $9,342 and out-of-state tuition at $11,064. The average net price is $5,564, making it accessible for many students. 74% of students receive financial aid, with an average total aid award of $7,897, helping to offset the cost of books and supplies estimated at $2,500.

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Admissions

Application info

Student–faculty ratio11:1

Common AppYes

Application fee$0

Prairie State College has an open admissions policy, making it accessible to a wide range of students. The college focuses on providing opportunities for students to achieve their career and life-long goals. Prospective students can apply for admission and meet with academic advisors to discuss program options and create an academic plan.

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Academics

Student–faculty ratio11:1

Full-time faculty33%

Prairie State College offers a supportive and inclusive academic environment with dedicated faculty and staff. The college emphasizes student learning and success through high-quality programs. With a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, students benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention, fostering a comfortable and supported learning experience.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$36,696

Job placement rate91%

Earn more than HS grad51%

Economic mobility105%

Loan default (3 yr)11%

Loan repayment (3 yr)25%

Prairie State College focuses on preparing students for transfer to four-year institutions, with comprehensive guidance and assistance in selecting transferable courses and completing applications. The college was the first in Illinois to guarantee credit transferability through the Illinois Articulation Initiative. 91% of graduates are employed one year after graduation.

Student life

Demographics

Small School

2,448Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio

Female 61%Male 39%

54% BlackRacial diversity

Black 54%Hispanic 23%White 13%Asian 1%Other 10%

Campus housingYes

Student life at Prairie State College offers a diverse and welcoming atmosphere, though some students note limited community engagement outside of academics. The college supports various clubs and organizations, including the Latin Alliance Club and the Sustainability Club. While Greek life is minimal, students can participate in varsity sports and attend campus events.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

This community college is more local than others from what I've seen. The school's beginner friendly as well, having some seminars to teach incoming freshman about what to expect in college. Most of the professors are an excellent resource as well, from my experience they were a great help with anything that concerns me.

Current Student

Being at community college, I understand what it feels like when a professor cares about me. When I transfer out, I will quickly be able to identify if a professor looks at me like a number or a student.

Student

Just because PSC is a community college doesn't mean you should slack off. THIS IS NOT HIGH SCHOOL. The difference is that you're paying for it, so if you want to leave early, ditch classes, sleep/text in class, then forget about it.

Campus and vibes

Student

It’s a great affordable school that equips knowledgeable and caring professors. I enjoyed my time here and felt supported throughout my classes each semester. The food in the cafe is pretty good but there also a few restaurants in the area within a ten minute drive.

Student

I had a pretty memorable experience with staff, and made many lasting friendships with students who had attended my previous high school. I can honestly say that I didn’t have a bad experience at Prairie State College, I was definitely a great bridge into the college scene.

Alumni

PSC helped me build my confidence; the leader I am now can be traced back to the student experience I had at Prairie State College. Serving as the president of the Student Government Association, president of the Sustainability Club, and vice president of the All-Latin Association, expedited my professional and leadership skills.

Current Student

I'm in the Latin Alliance Club. I've met a lot of people who I can relate to in the club and I know I'm going to be friends with the people in there for a long time. Go for it. Don’t be scared. It has a bit of a negative connotation because you’re not going straight to a four-year (institution). Once you’re here you realize it's a more intimate community and you really get to know people.

Cost and value

Student

Review all the programming before you attend. Also look into financial aid programs yourself. They are helpful here but often long wait.

Student

If you apply here I guarantee you'll have your money's worth. You can graduate from Prairie State or either pass the classes for your requirement to transfer to another class. It's really easy and you can get far from this college.

About Prairie State College

Prairie State College prioritizes campus safety with security measures in place. The college is reported to have an excellent rating for personal safety. The campus provides 24-hour security patrol and campus emergency phones to ensure a secure environment for students and staff.

Prairie State College's Honors Program offers enhanced transfer and job opportunities for participating students. Honors classes provide a rich educational experience with individualized attention from instructors in a creative and challenging atmosphere. Students in the Honors Program enjoy special early registration privileges and eligibility for Honors programs and scholarships at transfer colleges.

While specific details on international student support are limited, Prairie State College serves a diverse student body, including international students. The college offers various resources and programs to support all students in achieving their academic and career goals. International students can access assistance with admissions and academic advising.

Endowment$2,513,087

Avg faculty salary$107,100