Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
Private colleges, unlike large public institutions, can be a great option for students wanting a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Here is our list of the best private colleges in Illinois.
10 Best Private Colleges in Illinois
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Loyola University Chicago
- DePaul University
- Wheaton College
- Bradley University
- Roosevelt University
- Columbia College Chicago
- Knox College
- University of Chicago
- Northwestern University
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Loyola University Chicago
- DePaul University
- Wheaton College
- Rockford University
- Knox College
- Roosevelt University
- Bradley University
- Columbia College Chicago 95%
- Benedictine University 93%
- National Louis University 92%
- Trinity International University 91%
- Roosevelt University 88%
- Wheaton College 88%
- Eureka College 87%
- Saint Xavier University 84%
- Aurora University 82%
- Loyola University Chicago 79%
- Aurora University 18 to 1
- McKendree University 17 to 1
- DePaul University 17 to 1
- Saint Xavier University 15 to 1
- National Louis University 15 to 1
- Columbia College Chicago 15 to 1
- Lewis University 14 to 1
- Loyola University Chicago 13 to 1
- Illinois Institute of Technology 13 to 1
- Eureka College 13 to 1
- University of Chicago $64,260
- Northwestern University $63,468
- Illinois Wesleyan University $53,814
- Knox College $53,259
- Lake Forest College $52,902
- Illinois Institute of Technology $50,640
- Loyola University Chicago $49,498
- Augustana College $47,916
- North Central College $43,046
- DePaul University $42,840
- University of Chicago $65,145
- Northwestern University $51,869
- Illinois Institute of Technology $34,101
- Augustana College $34,000
- Roosevelt University $22,764
- DePaul University $21,719
- Millikin University $20,000
- Loyola University Chicago $19,440
- Benedictine University $19,181
- Wheaton College $18,720
- Lewis University
- Rockford University
- Illinois College
- Millikin University
- National Louis University
- Eureka College
- Illinois Wesleyan University
- Trinity International University
- Augustana College
- Saint Xavier University
- Lewis University
- Saint Xavier University
- Millikin University
- McKendree University
- Aurora University
- Benedictine University
- North Central College
- National Louis University
- Trinity International University
- Illinois College
- University of Chicago 5%
- Northwestern University 7%
- Illinois Wesleyan University 42%
- Rockford University 55%
- Lake Forest College 60%
- Augustana College 61%
- North Central College 61%
- Illinois Institute of Technology 61%
- McKendree University 68%
- DePaul University 70%
- University of Chicago 5 to 1
- Northwestern University 6 to 1
- Knox College 9 to 1
- Millikin University 10 to 1
- Rockford University 10 to 1
- Illinois Wesleyan University 11 to 1
- Roosevelt University 11 to 1
- Augustana College 11 to 1
- Illinois College 12 to 1
- Trinity International University 12 to 1
- National Louis University $11,580
- Aurora University $27,420
- Eureka College $28,380
- Columbia College Chicago $31,026
- Roosevelt University $33,068
- McKendree University $33,430
- Trinity International University $33,898
- Benedictine University $34,290
- Rockford University $35,050
- Saint Xavier University $35,770
- Columbia College Chicago $1,209
- Illinois College $9,000
- McKendree University $9,450
- National Louis University $11,646
- Rockford University $13,680
- Aurora University $14,586
- Lewis University $14,760
- Saint Xavier University $15,000
- Lake Forest College $15,816
- North Central College $15,822
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
What is the difference between public and private colleges?
Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.
Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.
This list is composed entirely of private colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 41 private universities in Illinois. To be included in the list below of the best private universities in Illinois, schools must be fully accredited, private, non-profit institution, and must offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.
Best Private 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 Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #5 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #6 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #1 Best Colleges in Illinois 2025
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #1 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2025
- #2 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #2 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #4 Best Colleges and Universities for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Political Science 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
- #6 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 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: $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 Colleges in Illinois 2025
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
- #2 Best Grad Schools Illinois 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
- #17 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #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
- #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 2025
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
- #10 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
- #12 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #19 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 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: $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
- #12 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #4 Best 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
- #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
- #6 Best 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 Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #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 2025
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology 2025
- #5 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #8 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #9 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #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 #7 Best 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
- #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 Master’s in Educational Administration
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
- #6 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #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
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #14 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs 2025
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
- #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 #4 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs 2025
- #9 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #9 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #10 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025
- #14 Best Online MBAs in Finance 2025
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 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
- #3 Best Liberal Arts 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
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
- #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
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #20 Best Online Master’s in Finance #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 Associate Degrees in Illinois 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois #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
- #4 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #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
- #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024 #20 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #25 Best RN to BSN Online
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
53%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Saint Xavier University
Cost of Degree: $36,840Expenses: $16,008Starting Salary: $50,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Saint Xavier University known for?
Saint Xavier University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Mathematics
- History
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Computer Science
- Literature
- Communications
- Political Science
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Saint Xavier University’s Online Degrees
BA in Business
- Required Credits: 45
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Applied Communication
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Rn To Bsn Nursing
- Required Credits: 34
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025
Tuition + fees
$48K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
78%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/24
Career Outlook for degree at Augustana College
Cost of Degree: $49,834Expenses: $15,014Starting Salary: $56,400Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Augustana College known for?
Augustana College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Physics
- Earth Sciences
- Sociology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Philosophy
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
- #25 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025 #10 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2025 #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
Other Rankings
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: $12,320Expenses: $10,177Starting Salary: $45,400Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
Trinity International University’s Online Degrees
BA in Business
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Christian Ministries
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
42%
Graduation
79%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/27
Career Outlook for degree at Illinois Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $55,704Expenses: $15,430Starting Salary: $67,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Illinois Wesleyan University known for?
Illinois Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Nursing
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Economics
- Biology
- History
- Political Science
- Physics
- Religious Studies
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
54%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Eureka College
Cost of Degree: $28,400Expenses: $12,992Starting Salary: $40,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Eureka College known for?
Eureka College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Communications
- Criminal Justice
- Philosophy
- Education
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Biology
- Medical
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #8 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs 2025 #10 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025 #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: $14,601Starting 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
National Louis University’s Online Degrees
BA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer Sciences
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BABS in Communications
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Services
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Healthcare Leadership
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$42K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
58%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/23
Career Outlook for degree at Millikin University
Cost of Degree: $43,570Expenses: $16,430Starting Salary: $47,200Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Millikin University known for?
Millikin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Millikin University’s Online Degrees
BS in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2025 #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs #13 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
67%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1043/23
Career Outlook for degree at Illinois College
Cost of Degree: $37,470Starting Salary: $49,100What is Illinois College known for?
Illinois College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Illinois College’s Online Degrees
BA in Accounting
- Required Credits: 42
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Agribusiness Management
- Required Credits: 42
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Resources Management
- Required Credits: 46
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 42-44
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
55%
Graduation
40%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
963/16
Career Outlook for degree at Rockford University
Cost of Degree: $37,000Expenses: $15,600Starting Salary: $47,800Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rockford University known for?
Rockford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Political Science
- Education
- Psychology
- History
- Medical
- Anthropology
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
Rockford University’s Online Degrees
BSMS in Bachelor Of Science In Management Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSAS in Bachelors Of Science In Accounting Studies
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #16 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #20 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025
Other Rankings
- #6 Best Online Master's in Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs 2025
- #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
- #9 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs 2025
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #11 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #12 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
- #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: $37,882Expenses: $15,830Starting 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
Lewis University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Sales
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Computer Science
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice
- Security Studies
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Illinois’s Best Private Colleges in Your Area 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
- Knox College
- Trinity International University
- DePaul University
- Principia College
- Loyola University Chicago
- Monmouth College
- Illinois Wesleyan University
- Lake Forest College
- Illinois College
- Bradley University
- Dominican University
- North Central College
- Augustana College
- Elmhurst University
- Olivet Nazarene University
- Millikin University
- Benedictine University
- Trinity Christian College
- Quincy University
- Saint Xavier University
- Lewis University
Check out our directory of private colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top private schools in every state.