Best Colleges in Illinois 2024
Here are the best colleges and universities in Illinois. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
10 Best Colleges 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
- Bradley 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%
- Columbia College Chicago 95%
- Benedictine University 93%
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale 91%
- Roosevelt University 88%
- Wheaton College 88%
- Illinois State University 86%
- Aurora University 82%
- University of Illinois Springfield 82%
- Loyola University Chicago 79%
- 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
- Eastern Illinois University 15 to 1
- Columbia College Chicago 15 to 1
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville 15 to 1
- Northern Illinois University 14 to 1
- University of Chicago $64,260
- Northwestern University $63,468
- Knox College $53,259
- Lake Forest College $52,902
- Illinois Institute of Technology $50,640
- Loyola University Chicago $49,498
- North Central College $43,046
- DePaul University $42,840
- Wheaton College $42,240
- Bradley University $37,800
- University of Chicago $65,145
- Northwestern University $51,869
- Illinois Institute of Technology $34,101
- Roosevelt University $22,764
- DePaul University $21,719
- Loyola University Chicago $19,440
- Benedictine University $19,181
- Wheaton College $18,720
- Bradley University $17,820
- North Central College $15,822
- Aurora University
- McKendree University
- North Central College
- Chicago State University
- Benedictine University
- Eastern Illinois University
- University of Illinois Springfield
- Western Illinois University
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
- Lake Forest College
- McKendree University
- Aurora University
- Benedictine University
- North Central College
- University of Illinois Springfield
- Eastern Illinois University
- Western Illinois University
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
- Chicago State University
- Lake Forest College
- University of Chicago 5%
- Northwestern University 7%
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 45%
- Chicago State University 49%
- Lake Forest College 60%
- North Central College 61%
- Illinois Institute of Technology 61%
- McKendree University 68%
- Eastern Illinois University 68%
- DePaul University 70%
- University of Chicago 5 to 1
- Northwestern University 6 to 1
- Knox College 9 to 1
- Chicago State University 11 to 1
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale 11 to 1
- Roosevelt University 11 to 1
- University of Illinois Springfield 12 to 1
- North Central College 12 to 1
- Lake Forest College 12 to 1
- Bradley University 12 to 1
- Eastern Illinois University $9,417
- University of Illinois Springfield $9,758
- Illinois State University $10,907
- 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
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale $15,416
- Columbia College Chicago $1,209
- Chicago State University $5,976
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville $7,402
- Eastern Illinois University $7,691
- Illinois State University $7,694
- Western Illinois University $8,609
- University of Illinois Springfield $8,858
- Northern Illinois University $9,066
- 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
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 2023
- #4 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #6 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #6 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 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 Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools 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
- #5 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
- #16 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 Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #2 Best Grad Schools 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
- #8 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #11 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 Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools 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 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
- #4 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #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 Research Universities in Illinois 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools Illinois 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: $15,472Expenses: $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
University of Illinois Chicago’s Online Degrees
BS in Health Information Management
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #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 Research Universities 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 Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #6 Best Grad Schools 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
- #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 Accredited Online Juris Doctorate (JD) Law Programs
- #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
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 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024
- #7 Best Grad Schools 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
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
- #3 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Grad Schools 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
- #5 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #6 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts 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
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024 #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #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: $37,800Expenses: $15,636Starting Salary: $58,300Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #4 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools Illinois 2024
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 #2 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
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 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024 #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
47%
Student body
7K
Career Outlook for degree at Columbia College Chicago
Cost of Degree: $31,026Expenses: $22,690Starting 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 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024
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: $53,259Expenses: $12,748Starting Salary: $43,500Cost Recoup Time: 20 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: $52,902Expenses: $15,898Starting Salary: $55,600Cost Recoup Time: 18 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
- #6 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #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 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
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
- #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
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 Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #9 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #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: $12,809Expenses: $13,696Starting Salary: $46,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 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
- #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
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
- #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
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois
Other Rankings
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: $43,046Expenses: $14,920Starting 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
- #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
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 #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
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
Illinois’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 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