Best Online Colleges in Illinois
Discover the top online colleges in Illinois, average tuition costs, and explore the state’s fastest-growing jobs.
3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers
Learn more about our Editorial Policy and Standards and Advertising Disclosure.
Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.
Enrolling at an online college in Illinois can be a convenient and accessible way to earn a degree.
The best online schools provide more than a good education, such as a wide range of programs and financial aid opportunities. Many virtual programs also offer courses in an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete classwork on their own time and potentially save on tuition. Illinois is home to nearly 50 universities with online programs — so there’s a good chance you can find a school that’s right for you.
Whether you’re a resident of Illinois or considering moving to the Land of Lincoln, read on to learn more about online education and career growth opportunities in the state.
Best Online Colleges in Illinois
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
DePaul University
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$41,361
$41,361
69%
66%
$17,951
$17,951
84%
21,670
Private
Yes
$41,361
$41,361
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$41,361
$41,361
69%
66%
$17,951
$17,951
84%
21,670
Private
Yes
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$35,262
$35,262
71%
77%
$14,760
$14,760
75%
6,183
Private
Yes
$35,262
$35,262
Romeoville, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$35,262
$35,262
71%
77%
$14,760
$14,760
75%
6,183
Private
Yes
North Park University
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$32,380
$32,380
67%
39%
$14,004
$14,004
70%
2,749
Private
Yes
$32,380
$32,380
Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$32,380
$32,380
67%
39%
$14,004
$14,004
70%
2,749
Private
Yes
Judson University
Elgin, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$28,840
$28,840
62%
64%
$15,814
$15,814
66%
1,173
Private
Yes
$28,840
$28,840
Elgin, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$28,840
$28,840
62%
64%
$15,814
$15,814
66%
1,173
Private
Yes
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$31,700
$31,700
78%
59%
$9,756
$9,756
73%
1,958
Private
Yes
$31,700
$31,700
Lebanon, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$31,700
$31,700
78%
59%
$9,756
$9,756
73%
1,958
Private
Yes
Cost of College in Illinois
The cost of college in Illinois varies based on several factors, including the type of school (public or private), the level of the degree program (undergraduate or graduate), and a student’s residency status
Compared to the national average, Illinois’s tuition rates are on the higher end. During the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state students at public four-year colleges were charged $14,993 for tuition, while out-of-state students were charged an average of $29,350, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
At private four-year colleges, the average tuition was $36,637 in Illinois, about $3,000 more than the national average for out-of-state tuition.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $14,993 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $29,350 |
| Private Four-Year | $36,637 |
| Public Two-Year (In-State) | $4,204 |
| Public Two-Year (Out-of-State) | $11,339 |
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Illinois
The job outlook for college graduates in Illinois is promising, with many sectors experiencing significant growth. The Illinois Department of Employment Security projects numerous jobs in Illinois will experience significant growth from 2020-2030.Some of the fastest-growing careers in Illinois require at least a bachelor’s degree. These roles include entertainment agents, nurse practitioners, actuaries, mathematical scientists, and physician assistants. The BLS projects that jobs for these professionals will grow between 23% and 56% from 2020-2030.
By attending an online college in Illinois, you can learn, network, and even gain work experience in the local economy.
| Job | Job Growth 2020-2030 | Average Annual Wage 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes | 56% | $115,530 |
| Nurse Practitioners | 44% | $122,310 |
| Statisticians | 35% | $105,560 |
| Logisticians | 29% | $71,180 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 27% | $130,670 |
| Mathematical Scientists | 27% | $79,540 |
| Information Security Analysts | 25% | $114,060 |
| Actuaries | 25% | $131,080 |
| Physician Assistants | 24% | $124,180 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 23% | $99,480 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Illinois
Northwestern University, based in Evanston, holds the top spot among colleges in Illinois. The school is known for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, and strong emphasis on research.
Northwestern offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines. Additionally, Northwestern is recognized for its distinguished faculty, extensive resources, and commitment to student success.
Explore More College Resources
Colleges in Chicago: Full List of Schools
Colleges in Chicago offer a wealth of degree programs and campus experiences. Discover which school can help you reach your goals.
Updated September 18, 2023
Public Colleges in Illinois: Full List of Schools
Public colleges in Illinois can provide you with a great education at an affordable price. Some of the most popular schools include ISU and UIC.
Updated August 24, 2023
Private Colleges in Illinois: Complete List of Schools
Illinois has top-ranked private colleges, including UChicago and Northwestern. Learn more about the best private colleges in Illinois and what they cost.
by Nalea Ko
Updated October 13, 2023
Other Generic Resources
General
careers