Your Path to Career Success in Chicago
Malcolm X College, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a public community college dedicated to providing accessible, career-focused education. Founded in 1911 and now part of the City Colleges of Chicago system, MXC Chicago serves over 10,000 students annually, including both traditional and adult learners.
Situated in the heart of Chicago, Malcolm X Chicago offers students direct access to one of America’s largest job markets, especially in healthcare, business, and technology fields. The college emphasizes flexible learning with a mix of in-person, online, and hybrid courses designed for busy schedules.
1. Strong Healthcare Programs: MXC is renowned for its health sciences programs, including Nursing, Radiography, and Respiratory Care. The School of Health Sciences serves over 3,000 students annually and partners with major hospitals like Rush and Northwestern Medicine.
2. Affordable Tuition: In-district tuition is approximately $146 per credit hour, making it one of the most cost-effective options in Chicago. Full-time students can complete a year for under $4,000, excluding financial aid.
3. Flexible Learning Options: Offers over 100 courses in online or hybrid formats. Day, evening, and weekend classes accommodate working students and adult learners.
4. Industry Partnerships: Collaborates with over 25 healthcare institutions across Chicago, providing students with access to internships, clinical placements, and direct employment pipelines post-graduation.
5. Support Services: Provides free academic tutoring, career counseling, and transfer assistance. Over 70% of students who use transfer services successfully enroll in four-year institutions.
It follows an open admission policy, welcoming a diverse student body. The acceptance rate is approximately 90%, reflecting the college’s commitment to accessibility.
1. Application: Complete an online application; no application fee required.
2. Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED is required.
3. Transcripts: Submit official high school or prior college transcripts.
4. Placement Tests: May be required in math and English to determine course levels.
5. Additional Requirements: Some health sciences programs require background checks and immunisations.
1. High school graduates or GED holders: Applicants must provide an official high school transcript or GED certificate as proof of completion.
2. Adult learners and transfer students welcome: Adult learners can apply regardless of the time since graduation. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges for credit evaluation.
3. International students: Must meet U.S. visa requirements (typically F-1) and submit proof of English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 71 iBT), IELTS(minimum 6.0), or equivalent. Additional documentation, such as financial statements and passport copies, may be required.
Applications can be submitted year-round for rolling admissions.
| Category | Semester Estimate | Annual Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (in-district) | $3,500 | $7,000 |
| Tuition (out-of-district) | $6,500 | $13,000 |
| Fees | $300 | $600 |
| Books & Supplies | $600 | $1,200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $19,000-$20,000 | $8,800 – $15,000 |
Many students receive financial aidand scholarships, lowering the overall cost.
| Ranking Category | Source | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Best Community Colleges | U.S. News Best Colleges 2025 | #14 Nationally |
| Best Healthcare Programs | Niche 2025 | #8 in Illinois |
| Best Colleges in Chicago | CollegeSimply 2025 | #5 in City |
Malcolm X College offers various financial supports including:
| Scholarship Type | Name/Program | Award Amount | Eligibility/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-Based | Academic Achievement Award | Up to $2,500/year | Based on GPA and course load |
| Need-Based | Pell Grants & Federal Aid | Varies | Based on financial need |
| Program-Specific | Health Sciences Scholarships | Varies | For students in nursing/allied health |
| Special Programs | Veterans’ Benefits | Varies | For military veterans |
| Employer Assistance | Tuition Reimbursement | Varies | Partnerships with local employers |
Amber also offers scholarships through the amberscholar.
MXC Chicago provides a broad range of certificate, associate degree, and transfer programs with a focus on practical skills. Popular courses include:
1. Nursing and Allied Health: RN, LPN, Medical Assisting, Radiologic Technology
2. Business Administration: Management, Marketing, Accounting
3. Information Technology: Network Security, Programming, Cybersecurity
4. General Education: Designed for transfer to four-year universities
5. Continuing Education: Short-term certificates and professional development
Classes are offered in flexible formats including day, evening, weekend, and online.
Malcolm X Chicago has produced successful professionals and community leaders such as:
1. Dr. Anthony Mitchell – Healthcare Administrator and Advocate
2. Jessica Ramirez – Chicago City Council Member
3. Robert Johnson – Entrepreneur and Tech Innovator
4. Karen Williams – Registered Nurse and Educator
Malcolm X College does not offer on-campus housing, but students can find nearby accommodations in areas like West Loop and Pilsen. Amber provides verified off-campus housing options in Chicago, offering furnished rooms, flexible leases, and 24/7 support, ideal for both local and international students.
About 90%, reflecting its open admissions policy.
Annual tuition ranges from $7,000 (in-district) to $13,000 (out-of-district), plus fees and supplies
No, standardized test scores are generally not required.
Yes, including merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships.
In Chicago, Illinois, offering students access to a major urban center with many career opportunities.