National reports indicate most of the 9.2 percent unemployed have not earned a degree, which experts predict is the best way to locate and maintain future employment.
Benedictine is the first university in the country to lead in helping the unemployed pay tuition.

Benedictine University believes a values-centered education is the key to molding the next generation of successful and socially-responsible leaders.

“Benedictine University is taking an innovative approach to putting ‘Illinois Back to Work’ and I commend them for their effort to make college affordable for Illinoisans trying to retrain and return to the workforce,” U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) said. “I hope this program is a great success and can serve as a model for other states and universities.”

Tuition for adult undergraduate programs can cost up to $515 per credit hour depending on the program. However, after all eligible state and federal student aid is applied, Benedictine’s “Illinois Back to Work” program will cover any remaining tuition and fees.

The program offers free tuition to Illinois residents 25 years of age and older who have been unemployed for at least 18 months and have not already earned a bachelor’s degree. Classes are held in Illinois at the Lisle, Naperville and Springfield campuses. Programs include an associate degree in Business Administration and bachelor’s degrees in Management and Organizational Behavior, Management, Organizational Leadership, Psychology, Finance and Accounting.