Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
The Vibe Check
Attending Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing feels like being part of a tight-knit, mission-driven healthcare family rather than a sprawling university. The atmosphere is intensely focused and professional, with students clad in scrubs moving purposefully between simulation labs and clinical rotations. It’s an environment where collaboration and compassion are just as important as academic rigor.
Academics & Majors
The academic program is deeply integrated with its affiliated hospital, offering students unparalleled hands-on clinical experience from their first year. Teaching quality is high, with faculty who are often practicing nurses and specialists, providing mentorship grounded in real-world expertise. While research opportunities are more focused on clinical application than broad academic exploration, the emphasis is squarely on preparing competent, job-ready nurses.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Peoria
Student life in Peoria is balanced and revolves around the medical campus, with many students forming close bonds through shared clinical schedules. For fun, students often explore the city's vibrant riverfront district with its restaurants and bars, attend local festivals like the Peoria Arts & International Festival, or enjoy outdoor activities at nearby parks and the Illinois River.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($72,850):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is situated within a large, secure medical center complex, which is monitored and safe, especially during class and clinical hours. The surrounding area of Peoria is generally safe, but as with any urban environment, students are advised to be aware of their surroundings and take standard precautions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Direct integration with a major hospital system provides extensive, high-quality clinical rotations.
- ✓ Strong focus on job-ready skills leads to high graduate employment rates in healthcare.
- ✓ Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from experienced nursing faculty.
- ✓ Specialized training in a high-demand field offers excellent long-term career stability.
Cons
- ✗ The focus is almost exclusively on nursing, limiting options for students interested in a broad liberal arts education.
- ✗ Campus life is minimal and closely tied to the hospital, lacking traditional college social activities.
- ✗ The urban setting may not appeal to students who prefer a classic college town atmosphere.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
It is known for its highly respected nursing programs and its deep integration with the Saint Francis Medical Center, one of the largest hospitals in Illinois. The college excels at providing hands-on, clinical-focused education that prepares students to be effective nurses from day one of their careers. Its mission is rooted in the values of its founding religious order, emphasizing compassionate care and service to the community.
Admission is selective, with the college looking for students who demonstrate academic preparedness, particularly in science courses, and a genuine passion for nursing. While specific acceptance rates aren't publicly available, the focus is on a holistic review of applications, including GPA, prerequisite coursework, and personal statements. The small enrollment of 267 students means the process is competitive, and applicants should present a strong, focused application.
Campus life is professional and career-oriented, with a student body that is highly focused on their studies and clinical training. The small size fosters a close-knit community where students support each other through the demanding nursing curriculum. Social life is less about traditional campus events and more about the shared experience of training within a working medical center and exploring the city of Peoria together.
Yes, for students dedicated to a nursing career, the degree offers a strong return on investment. The median 10-year earnings of $72,850, combined with the high demand for qualified nurses, means graduates can expect to recoup their educational costs relatively quickly. The direct pipeline to employment within a major hospital system and the specialized, practical training make it a financially sound choice for a stable career.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1913
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 343
- Zip Code 61603
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a median 10-year earnings of $72,850, the financial return on investment for this nursing degree is strong and competitive. Given the high demand for nurses and the specialized training provided, the cost of tuition is often justified by stable, well-paying job prospects shortly after graduation. The 32.4% Pell Grant rate indicates a significant portion of the student body receives financial aid, which can help manage the overall cost.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.