Best Grad Schools Illinois 2024
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in Illinois offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
10 Best Grad Schools in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Loyola University Chicago
- DePaul University
- Northern Illinois University
- Wheaton College
- Illinois State University
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Loyola University Chicago
- DePaul University
- Wheaton College
- Northern Illinois University
- Illinois State University
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville 98%
- Concordia University Chicago 93%
- Benedictine University 93%
- National Louis University 92%
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale 91%
- Trinity International University 91%
- Dominican University 90%
- Roosevelt University 88%
- Wheaton College 88%
- Illinois State University 86%
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 21 to 1
- Illinois State University 19 to 1
- University of Illinois Chicago 18 to 1
- Aurora University 18 to 1
- DePaul University 17 to 1
- McKendree University 17 to 1
- National Louis University 15 to 1
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville 15 to 1
- Northern Illinois University 14 to 1
- Lewis University 14 to 1
- University of Chicago $64,260
- Northwestern University $63,468
- Illinois Institute of Technology $50,640
- Loyola University Chicago $49,498
- DePaul University $42,840
- Wheaton College $42,240
- Olivet Nazarene University $37,940
- Lewis University $36,530
- Dominican University $36,500
- University of St. Francis $36,000
- University of Chicago $65,145
- Northwestern University $51,869
- Illinois Institute of Technology $34,101
- Roosevelt University $22,764
- DePaul University $21,719
- Dominican University $19,900
- Loyola University Chicago $19,440
- Benedictine University $19,181
- Wheaton College $18,720
- Trinity International University $17,880
- University of St. Francis
- Concordia University Chicago
- Judson University
- Dominican University
- Olivet Nazarene University
- Lewis University
- National Louis University
- Trinity International University
- Governors State University
- Aurora University
- Judson University
- University of St. Francis
- Concordia University Chicago
- Olivet Nazarene University
- Dominican University
- Lewis University
- Governors State University
- McKendree University
- Aurora University
- Benedictine University
- University of Chicago 5%
- Northwestern University 7%
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 45%
- Chicago State University 49%
- Governors State University 57%
- Judson University 58%
- University of St. Francis 58%
- Olivet Nazarene University 58%
- Illinois Institute of Technology 61%
- McKendree University 68%
- University of Chicago 5 to 1
- Northwestern University 6 to 1
- Judson University 10 to 1
- Governors State University 10 to 1
- Chicago State University 11 to 1
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale 11 to 1
- Dominican University 11 to 1
- Roosevelt University 11 to 1
- University of Illinois Springfield 12 to 1
- Concordia University Chicago 12 to 1
- Governors State University $7,512
- University of Illinois Springfield $9,758
- Illinois State University $10,907
- National Louis University $11,580
- Chicago State University $12,018
- University of Illinois Chicago $12,396
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville $12,558
- Northern Illinois University $12,662
- Western Illinois University $14,406
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign $14,542
- Chicago State University $5,976
- Governors State University $6,354
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville $7,402
- Illinois State University $7,694
- Western Illinois University $8,609
- University of Illinois Springfield $8,858
- Northern Illinois University $9,066
- Concordia University Chicago $9,399
- McKendree University $9,450
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale $11,268
Colleges and Universities in Illinois
Prospective students searching for colleges in Illinois have plenty of excellent schools to choose from. Illinois offers over 130 higher education institutes throughout the state. Thanks to an expansive public university system and several top private institutions, students can select from an extremely wide array of brick-and-mortar and online colleges in Illinois.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Illinois at Chicago, the state’s two largest public universities in Illinois. Students can access a full spectrum of undergraduate and graduate degrees for in-state tuition rates of $13,000 to $15,000 respectively. Both public universities also offer a full selection of online degree programs.It’s also worth noting that Illinois residents who pursue online degrees at public colleges in Illinois will qualify for in-state tuition rates. Out of state students will generally pay more whether pursuing on-campus or online degrees.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
More than half of the colleges in Illinois are actually private schools. Among these private colleges and universities, the most notable are DePaul University, Northwestern University, and Loyola University Chicago. Tuition from these three private schools can be costly, ranging from $44,000 to $55,000. However, each of these private schools boasts a high graduation rate and excellent professors.
Illinois is also home to many small private schools, including Benedictine University and National Louis University.
Popular disciplines in Illinois include disciplines like criminal justice, social work, nursing, education, religious studies, communications, and medicine. Both traditional and online students have a wide range of options in each of these subject areas.
Degree completion programs are also widely available for lapsed students who have already accumulated some college credits. This is an especially popular online degree option among working professionals in Illinois.
Additionally, Illinois offers several loan forgiveness-based financial aid programs for qualifying students pursuing careers as teachers, public defenders or prosecutors, or nurses.From the skyscrapers in Chicago to the vast prairie lands in the north, Illinois is a place where city meets country. Students can grab a Chicago-style hotdog on the way to a Cubs game, explore the ancient sandstone cliffs in the Shawnee National Forest, or admire an exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago, all while attending one of The Prairie State’s universities or colleges.
The higher education institutes in Illinois have also produced many prominent alumni, including Stephen Colbert, Phillip Glass, and Kurt Vonnegut. Students hoping to walk the same streets as these well-known individuals can check out some of the state’s top programs and universities.
What are Illinois’s Colleges & Universities?
- 17 Research Universities
- 36 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 28 Graduate Schools
- 12 Public Colleges & Universities
- 44 Private Colleges & Universities
- 24 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 34 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 15 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 49 Community Colleges
- 28 Online Colleges
Illinois’s Best Overall
There are 28 doctorate-granting graduate schools in Illinois. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the Illinois is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools in Illinois 2023
- #4 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #6 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #6 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
- #8 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #10 Best Universities in the World 2024
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #6 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #11 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #16 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$64K
Acceptance
5%
Graduation
96%
Student body
21K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at University of Chicago
Cost of Degree: $62,940Expenses: $22,596Starting Salary: $103,000Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Chicago known for?
University of Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Law
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #15 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #16 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024
Other Rankings
- #17 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #21 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #2 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #4 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #1 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
- #1 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
- #8 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #12 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #21 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
97%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Northwestern University
Cost of Degree: $63,468Expenses: $25,926Starting Salary: $93,400Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Northwestern University known for?
Northwestern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Sociology
- Law
- Economics
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Chemistry
- Philosophy
- Education
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #9 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #13 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
Other Rankings
- #16 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #24 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
- #2 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
- #2 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
- #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
- #3 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
- #4 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #6 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
- #21 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
85%
Student body
62K
Median SAT/ACT
1415/31
Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Cost of Degree: $17,782Expenses: $16,420Starting Salary: $70,900Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign known for?
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Engineering
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Economics
- Biology
- Philosophy
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #4 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #3 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
62%
Student body
37K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/27
Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Chicago
Cost of Degree: $15,472Expenses: $21,826Starting Salary: $61,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Illinois Chicago known for?
University of Illinois Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Economics
- Physics
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024 #5 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$51K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
75%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1315/30
Career Outlook for degree at Illinois Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $50,279Expenses: $21,270Starting Salary: $78,000Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Illinois Institute of Technology known for?
Illinois Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Economics
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Business
- Law
- Social Work
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #11 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #4 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #6 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #6 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #16 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #1 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 Best Accredited Online Juris Doctorate (JD) Law Programs
- #4 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology
- #5 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #9 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #10 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #10 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #12 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
71%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1275/29
Career Outlook for degree at Loyola University Chicago
Cost of Degree: $49,498Expenses: $18,320Starting Salary: $63,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Loyola University Chicago known for?
Loyola University Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #19 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #7 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Game Development & Design
- #2 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #6 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #10 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #11 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
- #11 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #12 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
- #12 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
- #16 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #19 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #21 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
69%
Student body
25K
Median SAT/ACT
1185/27
Career Outlook for degree at DePaul University
Cost of Degree: $43,100Expenses: $19,713Starting Salary: $60,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is DePaul University known for?
DePaul University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Law
- Business
- Social Work
- Philosophy
- Education
- Communications
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
53%
Student body
18K
Career Outlook for degree at Northern Illinois University
Cost of Degree: $12,472Expenses: $15,160Starting Salary: $49,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Northern Illinois University known for?
Northern Illinois University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Earth Sciences
- Communications
- Literature
- Political Science
- History
- Biology
- Physics
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #5 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$42K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
88%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1340/30
Career Outlook for degree at Wheaton College
Cost of Degree: $42,240Expenses: $14,540Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wheaton College known for?
Wheaton College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Psychology
- History
- Economics
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024 #2 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
67%
Student body
22K
Median SAT/ACT
1105/24
Career Outlook for degree at Illinois State University
Cost of Degree: $13,941Expenses: $17,288Starting Salary: $51,600Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Illinois State University known for?
Illinois State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Nursing
- Education
- Physics
- Communications
- Anthropology
- History
- Earth Sciences
- Literature
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024 #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
49%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1020/23
Career Outlook for degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Cost of Degree: $15,416Expenses: $14,673Starting Salary: $49,500Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southern Illinois University Carbondale known for?
Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Medical
- Communications
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
- Anthropology
- Engineering
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024 #1 Top 3 Best Online MBA in Real Estate Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #8 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #9 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #9 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #9 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #10 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
- #10 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #12 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #16 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #17 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
43%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
960/21
Career Outlook for degree at Roosevelt University
Cost of Degree: $33,068Expenses: $20,625Starting Salary: $47,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Roosevelt University known for?
Roosevelt University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Business
- Education
- Social Work
- Philosophy
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #16 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs #8 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
54%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1045/22
Career Outlook for degree at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Cost of Degree: $11,748Expenses: $14,304Starting Salary: $50,800Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southern Illinois University Edwardsville known for?
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
47%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for degree at Western Illinois University
Cost of Degree: $13,661Expenses: $13,721Starting Salary: $47,500Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Western Illinois University known for?
Western Illinois University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Earth Sciences
- History
- Communications
- Education
- Business
- Biology
- Economics
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
53%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1104/23
Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Springfield
Cost of Degree: $12,190Expenses: $14,388Starting Salary: $49,900Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Illinois Springfield known for?
University of Illinois Springfield’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Medical
- Literature
- Business
- Mathematics
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
53%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Benedictine University
Cost of Degree: $32,441Expenses: $15,042Starting Salary: $56,400Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Benedictine University known for?
Benedictine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Physics
- Business
- Psychology
- Medical
- Political Science
- Education
- Literature
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
28%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Chicago State University
Cost of Degree: $12,018Expenses: $20,700Starting Salary: $38,200Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Chicago State University known for?
Chicago State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Education
- Social Work
- Mathematics
- History
- Communications
- Medical
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
- #4 Top 10 Best Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #15 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #19 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
- #25 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
55%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at McKendree University
Cost of Degree: $33,430Expenses: $15,300Starting Salary: $50,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is McKendree University known for?
McKendree University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Education
- Business
- Sociology
- History
- Religious Studies
- Communications
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #12 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
60%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1089/22
Career Outlook for degree at Aurora University
Cost of Degree: $27,420Expenses: $16,602Starting Salary: $46,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Aurora University known for?
Aurora University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #19 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #11 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
21%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Governors State University
Cost of Degree: $10,468Expenses: $15,100Starting Salary: $44,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Governors State University known for?
Governors State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Education
- Business
- Computer Science
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #25 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #9 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024 #9 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
50%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1015/21
Career Outlook for degree at Trinity International University
Cost of Degree: $33,898Expenses: $14,861Starting Salary: $45,400Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Trinity International University known for?
Trinity International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- History
- Social Work
- Education
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Medical
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #6 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs #13 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology #16 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
31%
Student body
10K
Career Outlook for degree at National Louis University
Cost of Degree: $14,244Starting Salary: $50,800What is National Louis University known for?
National Louis University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Education
- Business
- Medical
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Communications
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #13 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #20 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
- #8 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
- #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #11 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #13 Best Online Master's in Biology
- #17 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #21 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #15 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
62%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1105/25
Career Outlook for degree at Lewis University
Cost of Degree: $36,530Expenses: $15,590Starting Salary: $53,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lewis University known for?
Lewis University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Social Work
- Nursing
- Political Science
- Philosophy
- History
- Religious Studies
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #12 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #15 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024 #22 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
67%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Olivet Nazarene University
Cost of Degree: $37,940Expenses: $13,540Starting Salary: $44,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Olivet Nazarene University known for?
Olivet Nazarene University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Earth Sciences
- Communications
- Sociology
- History
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
59%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1015/19
Career Outlook for degree at Dominican University
Cost of Degree: $36,350Expenses: $13,622Starting Salary: $49,900Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Dominican University known for?
Dominican University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
53%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1025/21
Career Outlook for degree at Judson University
Cost of Degree: $30,910Expenses: $15,090Starting Salary: $47,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Judson University known for?
Judson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2024 #8 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration #12 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
48%
Student body
8K
Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Chicago
Cost of Degree: $34,964Expenses: $13,362Starting Salary: $42,700Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Concordia University Chicago known for?
Concordia University Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Literature
- Social Work
- Medical
- Education
- Business
- History
- Philosophy
- Earth Sciences
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
65%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1135/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of St. Francis
Cost of Degree: $36,000Expenses: $15,230Starting Salary: $56,500Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of St. Francis known for?
University of St. Francis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Illinois’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- DePaul University
- Wheaton College
- Illinois State University
- Loyola University Chicago
- University of Illinois Springfield
- Western Illinois University
- Trinity International University
- Olivet Nazarene University
- Dominican University
- Lewis University
- Benedictine University
- Governors State University
- McKendree University
- Aurora University
- University of St. Francis