Lincoln College of Technology Melrose Park IL — officially Lincoln College of Technology, located at 8317 W North Avenue in Melrose Park, Illinois — is a private, hands-on vocational school serving the greater Chicago area since 1902. Originally founded as Greer College of Automotive Engineering, the campus has grown into a 90,000-square-foot training powerhouse offering career-focused programs in automotive, skilled trades, healthcare, and information technology. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult looking to change careers, this guide covers everything you need to know: programs, tuition, financial aid, admissions steps, campus facilities, and graduate outcomes.
1. Overview of Lincoln Tech Melrose Park: A Hands-On Trade School
Campus History & Location (Melrose Park, IL – Near Chicago)
Founded in 1902 as Greer College of Automotive Engineering, the Melrose Park campus is one of the oldest trade schools in Illinois. Today it operates as part of the Lincoln Group of Schools, a national network of career colleges. The campus sits in a quiet Chicago suburb just minutes from O’Hare International Airport, making it accessible from virtually anywhere in the metro area.
Address: 8317 W North Avenue, Melrose Park, IL 60160 | Phone: (708) 344-4700
The suburban setting gives students a focused learning environment while keeping them close to Chicago’s enormous employment market — a key advantage when it comes to job placement after graduation.
Accreditation & Trust Signals
Accreditation matters. Lincoln Tech Melrose Park holds the following credentials:
- Approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
- Operates as a private, for-profit institution
- Complaint hotline: (217) 557-7359 (IBHE)
These approvals mean federal financial aid (FAFSA) is available to eligible students, and credits/credentials are recognized by employers and industry partners nationwide.
Student Body Snapshot
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park enrolls approximately 944 full-time students. The campus reflects the diversity of the surrounding Chicago communities:
| Demographic | Data |
| Total Enrollment | 944 students (full-time) |
| Gender Split | 65% male / 35% female |
| Hispanic/Latino | 49% |
| Black/African American | 35% |
| White | 11% |
| Age 18–24 | 66% |
| Age 25–64 | 33% |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 27:1 |
2. Academic Programs at Lincoln Tech Melrose Park (With Updated Facilities)
The Melrose Park campus offers seven core program areas, all delivered in a hands-on, lab-intensive format. Graduates earn a diploma or certificate recognized by major employers in their field.
Automotive Technology (Audi & Mazda Partnership Programs)
Lincoln Tech’s Automotive Mechanics Technology program is the flagship offering of the Melrose Park campus — and one of the most comprehensive in the Midwest. Students train in real auto bays using industry-standard tools and technology.
Key features of the automotive program:
- 16 auto bays with 9 hydraulic lifts
- 9 drive-in classrooms — vehicles can literally be driven in for live diagnostics
- Collision repair workshops for hands-on body work experience
- Dedicated Auto Web Tech Lab for software-based diagnostics
- Audi Dealer Technician Training Module — partnership with Audi of America
- Mazda Dealer Technician Training Module — manufacturer-sponsored curriculum
These OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) partnership modules give students factory-level training before they even graduate, making them highly attractive to dealerships across the Chicago area.
Skilled Trades: HVAC, Welding & Electrical (EEST)
Lincoln Tech recently expanded its skilled trades offerings with new programs and upgraded facilities to meet surging demand for trade workers in Illinois.
HVAC Technology (New Program):
- Dedicated HVAC training lab with residential and commercial equipment
- Covers installation, maintenance, and repair of heating and cooling systems
- Johnson Controls Prep partnership — students gain exposure to building automation and control systems
Welding Technology (Expanded Facility):
- Individual welding booths equipped with Miller Electric welding machines
- Covers MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding techniques
- Expanded welding floor with enhanced ventilation systems
Electrician / Electrical Systems Technology (EEST):
- Unique ‘Smart House’ training simulator — a model home wired for hands-on low-voltage electrical practice
- Covers residential and commercial wiring, code compliance, and energy systems
- Prepares students for electrician apprenticeship programs and entry-level electrical careers
Healthcare Programs (Medical/Clinical Assistant)
For students interested in the healthcare field, Lincoln Tech Melrose Park offers a Medical/Clinical Assistant program designed to prepare students for front-line patient care roles.
- On-campus medical labs with modern clinical equipment
- Simulated doctor offices for real-world patient interaction training
- Covers clinical tasks: taking vitals, drawing blood, EKGs, patient intake
- Administrative skills: scheduling, coding basics, electronic health records (EHR)
Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles at clinics, hospitals, and physician practices throughout the Chicago metro area.
Specialized Training: Tesla START Program (16-Week Stipend)
One of Lincoln Tech Melrose Park’s most distinctive offerings is the Tesla START training program — a highly selective, factory-endorsed curriculum operated in partnership with Tesla, Inc.
- Duration: 16 weeks of intensive, focused EV (Electric Vehicle) training
- Stipend: Students receive a financial stipend during training — reducing out-of-pocket costs
- Facility: On-campus Tesla training center with Tesla charging stations
- Content: High-voltage systems, battery technology, EV diagnostics, and Tesla proprietary tools
- Pipeline: Graduates are positioned for direct hiring consideration at Tesla service centers
Tesla START is one of only a handful of such programs in the country, making the Melrose Park campus a destination for aspiring EV technicians nationwide.
3. Campus Facilities & Training Labs (Virtual Tour)
At 90,000 square feet, Lincoln Tech Melrose Park is purpose-built for hands-on learning. The facilities are organized by program and regularly updated with industry-current equipment — because training on outdated tools does not prepare you for a modern workforce.
90,000 Sq Ft of Training Space
- 16 auto bays and 9 hydraulic lifts for automotive programs
- 9 drive-in classrooms — unique to Lincoln Tech — allowing vehicles to be brought directly into the learning space
- Collision repair workshops with spray booths and frame-straightening equipment
- Auto Web Tech Lab for computer-based vehicle diagnostics
- Hall of Fame display celebrating notable alumni and program milestones
The ‘Smart House’ for Electrician Training
The Smart House is one of the most innovative training tools on campus. It is a fully wired model home structure where electrical students practice low-voltage wiring, smart home systems, and residential electrical installations in a controlled, realistic environment. Unlike classroom-only instruction, the Smart House allows students to make mistakes — and fix them — before working on a client’s home.
HVAC & Welding Labs with Industry Equipment
The HVAC lab features full-size residential and commercial HVAC units, allowing students to practice installation, troubleshooting, and refrigerant handling under instructor supervision. The welding lab features individual Miller Electric welding stations — the same brand used at major manufacturing facilities across the Midwest — ensuring students graduate familiar with professional-grade equipment.
Medical Labs & Simulated Doctor Offices
Healthcare students benefit from clinical labs that replicate a working medical office, including exam rooms, lab workstations, and administrative areas. This simulation-based approach bridges the gap between classroom instruction and real-world patient care, reducing the learning curve when students enter the workforce.
4. How Much Does Lincoln Tech Melrose Park Cost? (Financial Aid Guide)
Tuition, Fees, Books & Supplies (Estimated Overview)
Exact tuition varies by program and program length, so it is essential to contact admissions for a personalized estimate. However, most students do not pay the sticker price, thanks to financial aid. Below is a general framework for how costs break down:
| Cost Category | Notes |
| Tuition | Varies by program; contact admissions for current rates |
| Fees | Registration and technology fees may apply per term |
| Books & Supplies | Estimated costs vary by program; some materials provided |
| Tools & Equipment | Some programs include tool kits in program cost |
| Application Fee | $0 — No application fee at Lincoln Tech Melrose Park |
The most important number to remember: 92% of Lincoln Tech Melrose Park students receive some form of financial aid. The average scholarship or grant award is $5,156, which can significantly reduce net costs.
Scholarships ($25 Million Available in 2026) & Grants
Lincoln Tech has made a significant commitment to student affordability. In 2026, over $25 million in scholarship funding is available across the Lincoln Group of Schools network. Types of aid available at the Melrose Park campus include:
- Federal Pell Grants (for eligible students based on FAFSA)
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG)
- Lincoln Tech institutional scholarships
- State of Illinois grants
- Veterans benefits (eligible programs)
- Federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
Given that 92% of students receive aid, the effective out-of-pocket cost for most students is considerably lower than published tuition rates. Always apply for financial aid before assuming vocational school is unaffordable.
How to Apply for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park participates in all major federal financial aid programs. Here is how to get started:
- Visit studentaid.gov and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Use Lincoln Tech Melrose Park’s federal school code when completing your FAFSA
- Receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) — typically within a few days online
- Lincoln Tech’s financial aid office will contact you with your award package
- Review your aid offer and ask questions before committing
There is no cost to apply for FAFSA, and completing it is the single most important step toward making your education affordable.
5. Admissions Requirements & Step-by-Step Process
Open Admissions Policy & Diploma/GED Requirement
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park operates under an open admissions policy, meaning there is no competitive application process. You are not competing for limited spots based on grades or test scores. The primary requirements are:
- High school diploma, GED, HiSET, or TASC credential
- Must be at least 17 years of age at time of enrollment
- No application fee
- Valid ID and basic documentation
Some specialized programs (such as Tesla START) may have additional eligibility criteria. Ask admissions for program-specific requirements.
Step-by-Step Admissions Process
Here is what to expect from the moment you express interest to the day you start class:
- Apply Online or by Phone — Visit the official Lincoln Tech website or call (708) 344-4700. The application is free and takes about 15 minutes.
- Schedule a Campus Tour — Visit 8317 W North Avenue in person. Seeing the auto bays, Smart House, welding lab, and Tesla training center firsthand is one of the best ways to decide if Lincoln Tech is right for you.
- Meet with Admissions — A counselor will walk you through program options, start dates, and the academic calendar (which differs by program).
- Complete FAFSA — Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid at studentaid.gov. Lincoln Tech’s financial aid office will help you understand your options.
- Review Your Aid Award — Once your financial aid package is determined, review it carefully with your counselor before signing anything.
- Enroll & Confirm Start Date — Sign enrollment agreement, complete any placement assessments if required, and confirm your program start date.
The academic calendar and program start dates vary — some programs start multiple times per year. Contact admissions early so you do not miss an upcoming cohort.
6. Career Services & Graduate Outcomes (Employer Partners)
Career Placement Support
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park maintains a dedicated career services team that works with current students and program completers. Services include:
- Resume writing workshops and one-on-one resume review
- Interview preparation and mock interviews
- Job lead sharing and employer referrals
- Career counseling sessions
- Connections to employer partners who actively recruit Lincoln Tech graduates
Important disclaimer: Lincoln Tech does not guarantee employment. Graduation from a program does not automatically result in job placement. However, the career services team is actively engaged in connecting graduates with opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Lincoln Tech Melrose Park Graduates
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park graduates have been hired by some of the most respected employers in the Chicago metro area. Notable local employers include:
| Industry | Employers |
| Automotive | Atlas Toyota, AutoZone, Belle Tire, Aerotek |
| Healthcare | Alivio Medical Center, Ascension Medical Group, Concentra |
| Electronics/Technology | ABT Electronics |
| OEM / EV Partner | Tesla (via Tesla START program) |
| Manufacturing/Trades | Johnson Controls, various Chicagoland contractors |
Industry partnerships with Tesla, Audi, Mazda, Johnson Controls, and Miller Electric provide a direct pipeline from graduation to employment at some of the most sought-after employers in each field.
Graduation & Retention Rates
Understanding student outcomes helps you evaluate the value of your investment:
- Graduation Rate: 57% — meaning more than half of enrolled students complete their program
- First-Year Retention Rate: 69% — over two-thirds of first-year students continue into their second year
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 27:1 — instructors balance large cohorts, so proactive engagement with instructors is encouraged
While these outcomes reflect the real challenges of vocational education, they also highlight that the majority of committed, engaged students do complete their programs and go on to career-level employment.
7. Student Life & Local Area Guide (Melrose Park to Chicago)
On-Campus Student Life
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park is a career-focused campus, meaning the emphasis is firmly on training and job readiness rather than traditional college social life. That said, the campus does offer:
- Hall of Fame recognizing notable alumni and program achievements
- Library and academic support resources
- Academic and career counseling services
- Remedial services for students who need additional academic support
Currently, on-campus daycare services are not available, and the institution does not offer distance/online education — all instruction is in-person at the Melrose Park campus. Students seeking flexibility should factor this into their planning.
Living & Things To Do Near Campus
Melrose Park is a vibrant, predominantly Hispanic community in Cook County, IL, offering affordable housing options and a strong sense of community. The campus is conveniently situated near:
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport — one of the busiest in the world, offering jobs and connectivity
- Navy Pier — Chicago’s iconic lakefront entertainment destination
- Soldier Field — home of the Chicago Bears
- Wrigley Field — home of the Chicago Cubs
- Rate Field — home of the Chicago White Sox
- Lake Michigan shoreline — parks, beaches, and recreation
The proximity to Chicago means Lincoln Tech graduates have access to one of the largest job markets in the United States immediately upon completing their programs.
8. faqs
Is Lincoln College of Technology Melrose Park accredited?
Yes. Lincoln Tech Melrose Park is approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). These credentials make the school eligible for federal financial aid programs.
What is the tuition cost at Lincoln Tech Melrose Park?
Tuition varies by program. However, 92% of students receive financial aid with an average grant or scholarship of $5,156. Contact admissions at (708) 344-4700 for a personalized cost estimate based on your chosen program.
Does Lincoln Tech Melrose Park have a Tesla program?
Yes. The Tesla START training program is a 16-week intensive course with a financial stipend. Students train at an on-campus Tesla training center complete with charging stations. Graduates are positioned for consideration for employment at Tesla service centers.
What is the graduation rate at Lincoln College of Technology Melrose Park?
The graduation rate is 57%, and the first-year student retention rate is 69%. These figures reflect the rigorous, career-focused nature of the programs.
What are the admissions requirements?
Lincoln Tech Melrose Park has an open admissions policy. You need a high school diploma, GED, HiSET, or TASC certificate. There is no application fee. Some specialty programs may have additional requirements.
Does Lincoln Tech guarantee job placement?
No. Lincoln Tech does not guarantee employment or specific salary outcomes. However, career services specialists actively assist graduates with job leads, resume preparation, and employer referrals. Many graduates are hired by OEM and industry partners such as Tesla, Audi, Ascension Medical Group, and Atlas Toyota.
What programs are offered at the Melrose Park campus?
Current programs include: Automotive Mechanics Technology, HVAC Technology, Welding Technology, Electrician/Electrical Systems Technology (EEST), Medical/Clinical Assistant, Tesla START (specialized 16-week EV training), and IT skills tracks.
9. Compare Lincoln Tech Melrose Park to Other Options
Choosing where to get your career training is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here is how Lincoln Tech Melrose Park compares to the two most common alternatives:
Lincoln Tech vs. Community College
| Factor | Lincoln Tech Melrose Park | Community College |
| Focus | Career-specific, hands-on only | Mix of general ed & vocational |
| Program Length | Typically months (not years) | Often 2 years for associate degree |
| Time to Employment | Faster — diploma programs | Longer — gen-ed requirements |
| Industry Partnerships | Tesla, Audi, Mazda, Johnson Controls | Varies widely by school |
| Financial Aid | FAFSA eligible, $25M scholarships | FAFSA eligible, often lower tuition |
| Admissions | Open admissions, fast enrollment | Open admissions, semester starts |
| Campus Life | Career-focused, no major social scene | More extracurriculars and clubs |
Lincoln Tech vs. 4-Year University
| Factor | Lincoln Tech Melrose Park | 4-Year University |
| Time Investment | Months to diploma | 4+ years to bachelor’s degree |
| Total Cost | Lower; heavy financial aid available | Typically much higher overall cost |
| Career Focus | Immediate career-specific training | Broad academic education |
| Job Placement | Industry partner pipeline | Requires more independent job search |
| OEM Certifications | Yes (Tesla, Audi, Mazda) | Generally not available |
| Return on Investment | Faster ROI due to quicker entry into workforce | Longer ROI timeline |
For students who know the career they want and want to get there as quickly and affordably as possible, Lincoln Tech Melrose Park offers a compelling combination of speed, industry connections, and hands-on training that a 4-year university simply cannot replicate for trade careers.
Adrian Cole is a technology researcher and AI content specialist with more than seven years of experience studying automation, machine learning models, and digital innovation. He has worked with multiple tech startups as a consultant, helping them adopt smarter tools and build data-driven systems. Adrian writes simple, clear, and practical explanations of complex tech topics so readers can easily understand the future of AI.
