Best Colleges in Illinois 2025
Here are the best colleges and universities in Illinois. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
Key Takeaways
- With many Illinois colleges located near Chicago, students benefit from proximity to the city’s major industries, including finance, technology, and healthcare, providing ample opportunities for internships, networking, and job placements in prestigious firms and organizations.
- Colleges like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University are known for their strong emphasis on research, offering students access to state-of-the-art labs and facilities, where they can engage in cutting-edge projects across disciplines such as science, engineering, and social sciences.
- Come of the top colleges in Chicago offer strong arts programs and are located in the heart of Illinois’ rich cultural hubs, giving students access to theaters, museums, galleries, and performance spaces that enhance both their academic and extracurricular experiences.
10 Best Colleges in Illinois in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best colleges in Illinois saw a few schools change position for a variety of reasons. Illinois Institute of Technology, for example, launched the AI and Robotics Innovation Lab, which provides students with access to cutting-edge technology and research opportunities in fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics.
The university has also expanded its sustainability initiatives, incorporating renewable energy systems into campus infrastructure and offering new interdisciplinary courses on sustainable engineering and environmental policy. Additionally, Illinois Tech has upgraded its entrepreneurship programs, providing more resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities for students looking to launch startups. These updates reflect the university’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges
We’ve identified 53 colleges and universities in Illinois that meet our criteria. This list of the top 25 colleges in Illinois below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Illinois.
Best Colleges in Illinois
- #4 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #4 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #5 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Other Rankings
- #5 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #5 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #6 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025
- #2 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #2 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #4 Best Colleges and Universities for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #4 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #5 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #6 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2025
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: $65,619Expenses: $23,421Starting Salary: $103,000Cost Recoup Time: 15 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 Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #18 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Other Rankings
- #20 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #20 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #2 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
- #2 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025
- #5 Best Colleges and Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #12 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #13 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #20 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #20 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
- #1 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
- #1 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs 2025
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
- #10 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
- #11 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2025
- #17 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #19 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 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: $65,997Expenses: $25,293Starting 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 2025 #12 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #17 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #18 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Other Rankings
- #18 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #1 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
- #9 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
- #2 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science 2025
- #2 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
- #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs) 2025
- #4 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs 2025
- #4 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #5 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2025
- #7 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2025
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: $18,060Expenses: $17,638Starting 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
- #12 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
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: $50,917Expenses: $21,228Starting 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
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #2 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
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: $15,816Expenses: $22,026Starting 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
University of Illinois Chicago’s Online Degrees
BS in Health Information Management
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #1 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #4 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025
- #6 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #6 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
- #12 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025
- #2 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #3 Best Accredited Online Juris Doctorate (JD) Law Programs
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
- #5 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology 2025
- #8 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN 2025
- #8 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #9 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #9 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2025
- #10 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #13 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2025
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: $51,716Expenses: $19,694Starting 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
Loyola University Chicago’s Online Degrees
BA in Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Information Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Web Technologies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Paralegal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Applied Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Strategic Digital Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #19 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #7 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Game Development & Design 2025
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #3 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #6 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
- #9 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity 2025
- #10 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #11 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #12 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #13 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #19 Best Online Master’s in Education
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: $44,174Expenses: $22,338Starting Salary: $60,200Cost Recoup Time: 17 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
DePaul University’s Online Degrees
BA in Decision Analytics
- Required Credits: 192
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Computing
- Required Credits: 192
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Applied Behavioral Sciences
- Required Credits: 192
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BA in Leadership Studies
- Required Credits: 192
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #3 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025
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: $43,936Expenses: $15,740Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
- #3 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #3 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
53%
Student body
18K
Career Outlook for degree at Northern Illinois University
Cost of Degree: $12,506Expenses: $16,936Starting 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
- #4 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #4 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
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: $14,121Expenses: $18,288Starting 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 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #5 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #10 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025 #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs 2025
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: $13,244Expenses: $16,165Starting 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
- #7 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025 #1 Top 3 Best Online MBA in Real Estate Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #3 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #9 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs 2025
- #9 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #9 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #10 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
- #14 Best Online MBAs in Finance 2025
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025
- #15 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources 2025
- #16 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #20 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
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: $20,280Expenses: $23,135Starting Salary: $47,700Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
Roosevelt University’s Online Degrees
BA in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 147
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Health Science Administration
- Required Credits: 131-135
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Bachelor'S In Psychology
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025 #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
76%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1165/27
Career Outlook for degree at Bradley University
Cost of Degree: $39,680Expenses: $16,290Starting Salary: $58,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bradley University known for?
Bradley University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #9 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
47%
Student body
7K
Career Outlook for degree at Columbia College Chicago
Cost of Degree: $32,520Expenses: $21,768Starting Salary: $39,200Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Columbia College Chicago known for?
Columbia College Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2025
Tuition + fees
$53K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
75%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1290/30
Career Outlook for degree at Knox College
Cost of Degree: $55,587Expenses: $13,039Starting Salary: $43,500Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Knox College known for?
Knox College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- History
- Sociology
- Biology
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$53K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
78%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1246/28
Career Outlook for degree at Lake Forest College
Cost of Degree: $54,202Expenses: $17,148Starting Salary: $55,600Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lake Forest College known for?
Lake Forest College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #6 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #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: $12,754Expenses: $18,950Starting Salary: $38,200Cost Recoup Time: 14 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 Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #16 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2025 #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: $12,025Expenses: $17,324Starting Salary: $50,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 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
- #7 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology 2025
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2025
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
- #24 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
47%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for degree at Western Illinois University
Cost of Degree: $14,085Expenses: $13,896Starting 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
Western Illinois University’s Online Degrees
BB in Accountancy
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Economics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BB in Economics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Fire Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Anthropology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interpersonal Communication And Processes
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #2 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
55%
Student body
11K
Career Outlook for degree at Eastern Illinois University
Cost of Degree: $13,124Expenses: $14,216Starting Salary: $46,000Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Eastern Illinois University known for?
Eastern Illinois University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Eastern Illinois University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Development
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication In Organizations
- Required Credits: 46
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in General Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 35
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Promotion
Degree Concentrations
- Emergency Management And Disaster Preparedness
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #8 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #10 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
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: $12,472Expenses: $16,188Starting 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
University of Illinois Springfield’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 53-55
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Sports Management
- Required Credits: 53-55
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Human Resource Management
- Required Credits: 53-55
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in History
- Required Credits: 33
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication
- Required Credits: 32
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Management
- Required Credits: 53-55
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Marketing
- Required Credits: 53-55
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #8 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #19 Best Online Colleges 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: $32,546Expenses: $15,654Starting Salary: $56,400Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
Benedictine University’s Online Degrees
BA in Management
Degree Concentrations
- Digital Marketing
- Human Resources Management
- Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in General Professional Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #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: $28,220Expenses: $17,644Starting 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
Aurora University’s Online Degrees
BA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Cybersecurity
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSW in Social Work
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #22 Best Online Master’s in Finance 2025 #24 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources 2025
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
63%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/25
Career Outlook for degree at North Central College
Cost of Degree: $44,394Expenses: $15,568Starting Salary: $52,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is North Central College known for?
North Central College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Biology
- Business
- Psychology
- Medical
- History
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Education
- Religious Studies
Most Influential Alumni
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Illinois 2025 #8 Top 10 Best Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs 2025
Other Rankings
- #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #15 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #22 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #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: $34,070Expenses: $15,980Starting 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
McKendree University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Accounting
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Entrepreneurship
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Human Resource Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Sport Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Supply Chain Management And Logistics
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer Information Systems
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Cyber Defense
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Sociology/Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Illinois’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
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
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Wheaton College
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Knox College
- University of Illinois Springfield
- Trinity International University
- DePaul University
- Principia College
- Loyola University Chicago
- Monmouth College
- Illinois Wesleyan University
- Lake Forest College
- Illinois State University
- Illinois College
- Bradley University
- Dominican University
- Eastern Illinois University
- North Central College
- Augustana College
- Elmhurst University
- Olivet Nazarene University
- Millikin University