Best
Private Colleges in Illinois in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Illinois offers preparation for leadership across industries through coursework in accounting, marketing, finance, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Programs often emphasize communication, analytics, ethics, and internships with Chicago-area employers. Popular choices include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, Northern Illinois University, and Illinois State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, sales representatives, or management trainees, building careers across diverse organizations and sectors.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Illinois offers options from community colleges to research universities. Programs typically cover developmental psychology, cognitive processes, social behavior, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students build communication, assessment, and data-analysis skills. Popular choices include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, and Illinois State University. Graduates may work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources assistants, or research coordinators. Clinical psychologists require graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Illinois combines foundational theory with skills through coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often complete projects or internships that build teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, data analysts, systems engineers, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants. Popular colleges include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Chicago, Northwestern University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and DePaul University in Illinois.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Illinois combines learning with supervised practice, preparing students to support people facing personal challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, psychological assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and clinical practicum. Graduates may pursue work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or community counselors, subject to degree and licensure requirements. Illinois options include Northwestern University, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Northern Illinois University.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Illinois combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Popular choices include the University of Illinois Chicago, Illinois State University, Rush University, Loyola University Chicago, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Graduates commonly become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term-care facilities, and public health agencies, serving diverse patient populations.

Best Colleges in Illinois Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 29,856.0, compared with 52,071.6 at schools in the top 10%, so students should compare costs alongside the benefits of particular institutions.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, while the average among top 10% schools is 73.96%. These figures make it important to check each college's aid availability and how it applies to individual students.
• The average acceptance rate is 73.96%. Schools receive an average of 6,308.2 applicants, compared with 9,558.0 at top 10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 1,429.0, while the median number of female applicants is 1,770.0.
• Average test scores are 1,135.36 on the SAT and 24.78 on the ACT. Students can use these figures to compare their own academic profiles with the reported averages.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,540.95; reported averages for enrolled men and women are 235.76 and 308.43, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 57.5%, compared with 75.9% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 54.0% for men and 68.0% for women. Graduation outcomes are worth comparing when considering a college's fit and student support.
• There are 20 institutions offering associate's degrees, 60 offering bachelor's degrees, 65 offering master's degrees, and 30 offering doctor's degrees. Students should check that a school offers the degree level and program they want.
• The ranking includes 59 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women. Prospective students can consider these figures when deciding what kind of campus environment they prefer.
• When choosing a college, weigh cost and financial aid against acceptance rates, academic indicators, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and campus environment. The reported averages and medians provide useful comparisons, but students should pay attention to the factors most relevant to their own goals.

How much does studying at a college in Illinois cost?

Based on the figures, the average total cost of studying in Illinois is $31,446.57. The averages also include $33,576.87 for tuition and fees, $13,824.12 for room and board, and $1,403.02 for books and supplies. Because the figures may describe different cost measures, don't add them together or assume the total represents the price of a multi-year degree. Your actual bill depends on the college, program, housing choice, and how long you study.

• At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern, or DePaul, compare each program's tuition with your housing and materials expenses; prices vary widely.
• If you're near home, a community college may offer a lower-cost starting point, and transferring can help you pursue a bachelor's degree while managing expenses.
• Ask financial-aid offices about grants, scholarships, and work-study; these options can make an education feel more achievable and reduce what you pay out of pocket.

How long does it take to finish college in Illinois?

In Illinois, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years, while an associate degree at a community college usually takes about two. Illinois campuses such as the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, DePaul University, and Northwestern University offer pathways.

In the reported Illinois figures, the average graduation rate is 57.5%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 75.9%. Rates are 50.75% for men and 64.35% for women. These figures show students do earn degrees, while campus circumstances can shape completion.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask admissions advisers at your target school about credit limits, course sequencing, and transfer evaluations before enrolling. Illinois community colleges can provide an affordable start, and transferring later to a university may help you progress efficiently and successfully. With a plan, completing your degree sooner can be within reach.

Salary

After graduating from college in Illinois, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $48,407. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $76,311 - a promising benchmark if you're aiming for a strong return on your education.

Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and school. Illinois offers a range of options, from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Northwestern University to the University of Chicago and Illinois community colleges. Comparing programs and career paths can help you find a degree that fits your goals and earning potential.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Illinois?

"Prettiest" is subjective, but Northwestern University is a strong choice if you love lakefront scenery. Its Evanston campus sits beside Lake Michigan, with shoreline views, green spaces, and a mix of historic and modern buildings. For an Illinois student, the setting can make a simple walk between classes feel like a welcome break.

What is the most selective college in Illinois?

The University of Chicago is generally considered Illinois's most selective college, based on its very low undergraduate admission rate in recent years. Admission rates change with each application cycle, and selectivity alone does not determine whether a school is the right fit. UChicago may especially appeal to students drawn to rigorous academics and lively intellectual discussion.

What is the richest university in Illinois?

Northwestern University has the largest university endowment in Illinois among the state's major universities, based on recent publicly reported figures. Its endowment supports research, financial aid, faculty, and campus resources. That does not mean the university can spend the full amount freely, but its financial resources can help sustain a wide range of opportunities for students.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Illinois Ranking in 2026-2027

Northwestern University, located in Evanston near Chicago, is a selective private research university offering diverse programs and a lively campus. It enrolls 23,431 students, and its 95% graduation rate indicates strong degree completion. Admission is competitive, with an 8% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $67,158, while median alumni salary is $62,881. For Illinois students, Northwestern combines nearby Chicago-area opportunities with research, interdisciplinary learning, and extensive academic resources. A suburban setting also offers a distinct alternative to downtown study.

Located in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood, the University of Chicago is a private research institution known for rigorous academics and an influential intellectual culture. It enrolls 16,221 students, reports a 96% graduation rate, and has a 4% acceptance rate, making admission exceptionally selective. Its total study cost is $67,446, and median alumni salary is $62,367. For Illinois residents, the campus provides an urban learning environment, access to the city's cultural and professional resources, and a wide range of numerous scholarly opportunities.

Illinois Institute of Technology, based in Chicago, is a technology-focused university offering programs in engineering, computing, architecture, science, and business. It has 7,499 enrolled students, a 75% graduation rate, and a 55% acceptance rate. The reported total cost of studying is $50,636, and median alumni salary is $73,790, the highest among these five schools. Illinois students seeking a career-oriented education may value its urban setting, specialized academic strengths, and connections to Chicago's technology and business communities, supporting practical career preparation.

Saint Xavier University is a private Catholic university on Chicago's southwest side, offering a smaller campus environment and programs across fields such as nursing, education, business, and the liberal arts. It enrolls 3,487 students, with a 57% graduation rate and an 84% acceptance rate. The reported total study cost is $37,755, and median alumni salary is $50,265. For Illinois students, its city location and accessible admission may appeal to those seeking a close-knit academic community and practical pathways to careers.

Loyola University Chicago is a private Jesuit university with campuses in Chicago and a selection of undergraduate programs. Its 17,532 students experience a 73% graduation rate, while its 82% acceptance rate makes admission less selective than at some nearby institutions. Total study cost is reported as $52,230, and median alumni salary is $55,746. For Illinois students, Loyola pairs city-based study with a values-centered educational tradition, access to internships and cultural life, and opportunities to learn in a diverse university community.