Most
Affordable Colleges in Chicago in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Chicago, IL offers access to an urban economy and internships. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and data analytics. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or account manager. Popular Chicago colleges offering business administration programs include DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago, Roosevelt University, and Northeastern Illinois University. Programs may offer concentrations and practical projects.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Chicago, IL, combines learning with opportunities to explore human behavior across communities. Typical courses include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, cognitive and developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Popular local options include the University of Chicago, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, and the University of Illinois Chicago. Graduates may pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, or human resources specialist; clinical psychologist positions generally require advanced degrees.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Chicago, IL offers access to a technology and research community. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects, collaborate with peers, and may pursue internships with employers. Popular Chicago colleges offering computer science include DePaul University, the University of Illinois Chicago, Loyola University Chicago, and Illinois Institute of Technology. Graduates commonly work as software developers, data analysts, or systems engineers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Chicago, IL, typically combines theory, supervised practice, and preparation for licensure. Courses often include counseling techniques, ethics, lifespan development, multicultural counseling, assessment, and group therapy. Depending on specialization, graduates may pursue work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or career counselors, subject to state credentials. Chicago options include Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University, Northeastern Illinois University, and Chicago State University, which offer counseling-related graduate programs and training opportunities.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Chicago offers pathways from associate and bachelor's programs to advanced degrees. Students typically study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, community health, and nursing fundamentals, alongside supervised clinical practice. Chicago options include the University of Illinois Chicago, Rush University, Loyola University Chicago, and Saint Xavier University. Graduates may become registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or community health organizations; experience can lead to roles in intensive-care nursing, care coordination, or nursing education.

Best Colleges in Chicago, IL Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $24,000, compared with $51,911.20 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $27,911.20.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 74.74% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.74%. Schools receive an average of 11,029.95 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 32,875.8 applicants. The median applicant counts are 2,354 men and 4,070 women.
• Average test scores are 1,222.67 on the SAT and 27.83 on the ACT.
• Schools average 6,465.59 enrolled students, including averages of 383.11 enrolled men and 538.89 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 50.45%, compared with 75.3% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 50.5% for men and 64% for women.
• Among the institutions, 8 offer associate's degrees, 21 offer bachelor's degrees, 20 offer master's degrees, and 11 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 21 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh total cost alongside the availability of financial aid, and compare acceptance rates and applicant numbers with their own admissions goals. Graduation rates, degree offerings, and the student population are also important factors to consider when deciding which school best fits their plans.

How much does studying at a college in Chicago, IL cost?

The average total cost of studying in Chicago, IL, is $27,798.22. Treat this as a typical study-cost benchmark, not a guaranteed price for completing an entire degree: your final bill depends on program length, school, housing, and financial aid. Tuition and fees average $28,755.09, reported room and board average $15,099.87, and books and supplies average $1,589.43, before choosing a campus or mapping out your personal yearly budget.

• At UIC, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, or the University of Chicago, compare your intended major's tuition with housing and meal options.
• If you live at home in Chicago, commuting may reduce housing costs; scholarships, grants, and transfer credits can also lower what you pay.

Because published averages can use different cost definitions, do not simply add these amounts; use each college's cost-of-attendance estimate and subtract aid to build a realistic budget. A little comparison can make your path feel much more manageable.

How long does it take to finish college in Chicago, IL?

In Chicago, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years full-time; an associate degree, about two. At UIC, DePaul, Loyola University Chicago, or Columbia College Chicago, your timeline depends on your major, course load, and required course sequence. Part-time study or changing majors may add time, so review your degree plan early.

You may finish faster by applying AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits, taking summer courses, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask an adviser which credits satisfy requirements before enrolling; year-round study and online classes can help you maintain momentum while balancing Chicago work or family commitments.

Graduation remains a real hurdle: the average rate is 50.45%, versus 75.3% for the top 10% of schools; averages are 46.35% for men and 57.58% for women. Compare campus support, advising, tutoring, and financial aid at Chicago colleges, and choose a schedule you can sustain - steady progress can make finishing feel achievable for you.

Salary

Graduates of colleges in the Chicago, IL, area have a median alumni salary of $48,224. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $65,794. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings can vary with your field, experience, and choice of college.

Chicago students can compare options such as the University of Illinois Chicago, DePaul University, Loyola University Chicago, and Columbia College Chicago. When weighing programs, look at career services, internships, and connections to local employers alongside tuition - those opportunities can help you turn your degree into a rewarding first job.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Chicago?

Costs depend on the school, your residency, and whether you mean tuition alone or the full cost of attendance. As a rough guide, in-district community-college tuition can be around $4,000-$5,000 per year, while public four-year tuition may be around $15,000 or more. Private-college tuition can exceed $40,000; housing, food, books, and fees add to the total.

What college in Chicago has the lowest tuition?

For many Chicago residents, City Colleges of Chicago is among the lowest-tuition options. Its seven community-college campuses charge lower rates for eligible in-district students than most four-year colleges, though fees and program costs can add up. Your exact price depends on residency and course load, so check the current tuition schedule before enrolling. Some students may also qualify for tuition assistance.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Chicago, IL Ranking in 2026-2027

Chicago State University offers a public university experience on Chicago's South Side, with a campus setting rooted in the city. With 2,238 enrolled students, it is the smallest institution in this group. Its 43% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking access, though its 15% graduation rate merits careful consideration. Listed total study cost is $8,040, and median alumni salary is $47,003. For Chicago-based students, local living may simplify commuting and connection to area employers and community opportunities after graduation.

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is a large public research university near downtown, offering a broad range of academic programs and urban campus life. Enrollment is 35,869, the highest among these schools, while its 77% acceptance rate indicates relatively broad access. UIC reports a 62% graduation rate, total study cost of $28,849, and median alumni salary of $50,221. Chicago residents can use nearby transit, internships, hospitals, and businesses to connect studies with city opportunities, while planning carefully for expenses.

Northeastern Illinois University is a public university on Chicago's North Side, known for a diverse, commuter-friendly campus and accessible urban setting. With 5,734 students, it offers a smaller community than UIC while retaining city connections. Its 75% acceptance rate, 22% graduation rate, $20,686 total study cost, and $48,935 median alumni salary offer useful comparison points for applicants. Chicago, IL students can commute locally, explore internships, and pursue degrees in a metropolitan environment; compare program options and graduation outcomes before enrolling.

Moody Bible Institute is a private Christian college in downtown Chicago, with a mission-centered atmosphere and programs emphasizing biblical studies and ministry. Enrollment totals 2,202, and its 83% acceptance rate suggests broad admissions access. The 62% graduation rate, $13,152 total study cost, and $38,627 median alumni salary help frame its value. For Chicago, IL residents, downtown location can make classes and ministry or community service opportunities easier to reach; prospective students should confirm that its faith-based approach and programs fit their goals.

National Louis University is a private university serving Chicago through urban learning options and programs focused on professional and community needs. It enrolls 8,502 students, and its 95% acceptance rate indicates broad admissions access. Its 30% graduation rate, $12,420 total study cost, and $45,172 median alumni salary are key figures to weigh. For a Chicago, IL student, local campuses and city-based professional connections may suit someone balancing study with work, though checking program location, schedule, and support services is worthwhile.