Mission Statement
Taylor Business Institute promotes higher learning that empowers a broad-based student population through general education, applied degrees, non-matriculation coursework, test preparation, and certifications for success in a global society.
Taylor Business Institute
For more than 60 years, Taylor Business Institute has empowered students in the heart of downtown Chicago. As one of the city’s long-standing colleges—and one of the few that is female- and minority-owned—TBI serves a unique and essential role in higher education: opening doors for both local students from Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods and international students from around the world.
Located at 29 East Madison Street, TBI offers associate degrees, general education, certifications, English language programs, and test preparation designed to support students with big goals and complex lives. Whether you are balancing work, returning to school, learning English, or building a path to the future—you’ll find community, support, and opportunity here.
Our approach is personal. We look beyond test scores to understand each student’s potential, background, and determination. We believe in practical learning, real support systems, and second chances.
If you’re ready to change your today for a better tomorrow, you’ve found the right place.
TBI's Historic Journey
Founded in 1962
Founded in 1962 as the Nancy Taylor Speedwriting Secretarial School of Chicago, Inc., to offer basic secretarial skills to Chicago area residents.
1964 until the early 1970's
The school offered women secretarial training, modeling, poise, and finishing skills.
change of ownership in 1969
The school became a part of the International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation – ITT Educational Services.
August 1973
The institution was accredited by the Association of Independent Colleges and Schools. (ACICS)
December 1975
The college’s name was changed to Taylor Business Institute
1983
The college received approval to grant its first associate degree.
February 2017
TBI achieved regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) in February 2017.
2018
Launch of ESL program
2020
Transitioned to both in-person and online academic delivery.
2023
Moved to 29 E Madison Location.
2024
Naperville Classroom initiative.
2025
Received approval for Operating Authority in the West Suburban Region and approval to offer the Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology and Networking program.
Our Philosophy
Operating with quality and integrity for empowerment.
Our Vision
Taylor Business Institute’s vision is to be a recognized leader in higher education, preparing and training students through both matriculation and non-matriculation pathways for career readiness and skill development.
Empowerment through Education
Taylor's Mission
Taylor Business Institute promotes higher learning that empowers a broad-based student population through general education, applied degrees, non-matriculation coursework, test preparation, and certifications for success in a global society.
Accreditation
Taylor Business Institute is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to award Associate of Applied Science degrees and certificate programs. The college is also approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and licensed by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools.
The TBI Niche
Taylor Business Institute is a career-focused college that empowers and supports students from all over the world. This small, family-owned college provides for adult learners returning to college and for students, many of whom are from the Chicago urban experience. The college’s degree programs focus on workplace skills and are delivered by industry and academic professionals who combine both theoretical presentation and hands-on training.
Core Values - EMPOWER
- Exploration: Fostering intellectual curiosity and the pursuit of new knowledge across disciplines.
- Mentorship: Providing guidance and support through experienced faculty and peer networks.
- Purpose: Cultivating a sense of direction and the development of meaningful goals.
- Opportunity: Creating pathways for experiential learning, research, and career development.
- Wisdom: Encouraging critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and lifelong learning.
- Engagement: Promoting active participation in the campus community and beyond.
- Resilience: Building the capacity to overcome challenges and adapt to change.
GOALS
To realize TBI’s mission and vision, our administration and faculty have established the following institutional goals:
- To create an effective learning and teaching environment for students and faculty where the primary focus is Student Learning Outcomes.
- To recruit qualified instructors who remain current in their disciplines and philosophies of teaching.
- To provide Student Services that are considerate of our students’ needs
- To engage faculty and staff in continuous institutional assessment to improve Student Learning Outcomes.
- To provide up-to-date facilities, technology, and instructional resources to support student learning.
- To empower students to master General Education competencies, acquire professional skills, earn applied degrees, certificates or credentials critical to employment and continued learning.
- To encourage students to participate in Civic Learning and democratic engagement as a means of contributing to their
community. - To empower students for academic and professional success facilitate both the matriculating and non-matriculating of students for success in a global society.
- To treat all students, faculty and staff with respect.
