Black Hawk College has been recognized as one of the Top 250 trade schools in the country – and one of just 13 in Illinois – in a new ranking by USA TODAY.
To create its first annual ranking of America’s Top Vocational Schools, USA TODAY partnered with the market research firm Statista.
The inaugural ranking highlights Black Hawk College’s strengths in Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, and Health Professions and Related Programs.
The rankings were based on five primary metrics: graduation rate, graduates’ salary, years to pay off net cost, social mobility and diversity. Data on school performance was collected by Statista through publicly available federal databases.
“This recognition is more than a college achievement – it’s a regional win that reflects what happens when we put students first, listen to our communities, and adapt to workforce needs,” Black Hawk College President Jeremy Thomas said in a news release.
“It honors the hard work of our students and the trust of local employers who rely on Black Hawk College to develop the talent that drives our economy,” he said. “We’re proud to be among the best in the country.”
Click here to read the full story, What are the best vocational schools in the US?, and to see USA TODAY’s Top 250 list.
At a time when more people are rethinking the traditional college path, trade programs and community colleges such as Moline’s Black Hawk College play a vital role in strengthening the workforce, expanding opportunity, and supporting regional economies.
‘More than an honor’
“Being recognized as one of the top trade schools in the nation – and one of just 13 in Illinois – is more than an honor,” said Daniel Marvin, interim associate vice president for adult, career and workforce programs. “It’s a testament to the transformative power of workforce education.”
Mr. Marvin added “This recognition affirms the impact Black Hawk College has in preparing students for high-demand careers and fueling the economic vitality of our region.”
With campuses in Moline and Kewanee, Illinois, Black Hawk College offers a growing range of short-term, career-aligned and vocational programs – both credit and non-credit – that support the national momentum toward trade education and workforce-focused credentials.
According to the college, this recognition underscores its ongoing commitment to student success, workforce readiness and accessible, high-quality education across the college district.
Black Hawk College serves all or part of nine counties in northwestern Illinois with a population of more than 225,000 residents and an area encompassing 2,200 square miles.
