Illinois is home to several prestigious universities and colleges that offer a wide range of academic programs. Choosing the right college can be daunting, especially when so many options are available. When selecting a college, it is crucial to consider several factors, including academic programs, campus culture, location, and cost.

Higher education in Illinois is highly regarded, with many notable universities and colleges in the state. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago are some of the top-ranked universities in the state. These universities are known for their rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, and excellent faculty.

When choosing a college, it is essential to consider factors such as location, campus culture, and extracurricular activities. For example, students who prefer a smaller campus may be interested in schools like Wheaton College or Loyola University Chicago. On the other hand, students who want to experience city life may find the University of Illinois at Chicago or DePaul University to be more suitable. Ultimately, the best college for a student will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a public research university in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign in Illinois. It is a member of the Big Ten Conference and is known for its diverse student body, rigorous academic programs, and extensive research opportunities.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign varies depending on whether the student is an in-state or out-of-state resident. In-state tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are $17,138, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $34,338. Room and board, books and supplies, and other expenses can add up to $17,000 per year.

Enrollment and SAT Range

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has over 51,000 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1. The university is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 63%. The SAT range for admitted students is 1200-1460, while the ACT range is 27-33.

Majors

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers over 150 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate and professional programs. The most popular majors include engineering, computer science, business, psychology, and biology. The university is also known for its strong agriculture, architecture, and education programs.

Overall, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides students with a wealth of knowledge and experiences, both inside and outside the classroom. With its diverse student body, rigorous academic programs, and extensive research opportunities, it is a top choice for students seeking a world-class education.

Northwestern University

Northwestern University is a private research university located in Evanston, Illinois. It is one of the top-ranked universities in the country and is a member of the prestigious Ivy League schools. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, Northwestern offers a highly personalized educational experience.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending Northwestern University is approximately $77,048. However, the university offers need-based financial aid to eligible students. In addition, Northwestern has a generous merit-based scholarship program awards scholarships to students based on their academic achievements.

Enrollment and SAT Range

Northwestern University has an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 8,000 students. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1440-1550. Northwestern is a highly selective university, with an acceptance rate of only 9%.

Majors

Northwestern University offers many majors across its 12 schools and colleges. Some of the most popular majors include economics, psychology, journalism, and engineering. The university also offers a number of interdisciplinary programs, such as the Global Health Studies Minor.

Overall, Northwestern University is an excellent choice for students looking for a top-ranked university with a highly personalized educational experience. With its strong academic programs, generous financial aid, and vibrant campus community, Northwestern is a great place to pursue higher education.

The University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is a private research university in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. It was founded in 1890 and is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on research. The university has an undergraduate enrollment of around 6,600 students and a graduate enrollment of around 10,000 students.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending the University of Chicago is $62,940 for the 2022-2023 academic year. This includes tuition, fees, room, and board. However, the university is committed to providing financial aid to students who need it. Around 60% of undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid.

Enrollment and SAT Range

The University of Chicago is a highly selective institution, with an acceptance rate of around 6%. The middle 50% range of SAT scores for admitted students is 1490-1560. The university has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.

Majors

The University of Chicago offers over 50 majors, as well as several interdisciplinary programs. The most popular majors include economics, biology, mathematics, political science, and psychology. The university also strongly emphasizes research, with many opportunities for students to conduct research in their chosen field.

Overall, the University of Chicago is a top-ranked institution with a strong academic reputation and a commitment to providing financial aid to students who need it. Its rigorous academic programs and emphasis on research make it an attractive option for students looking for a challenging and rewarding educational experience.

University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is a highly-rated public university in Chicago, Illinois. It is a large institution with an enrollment of 20,023 undergraduate students.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending UIC for in-state students is $17,491, while out-of-state students pay $29,141. This includes tuition, fees, room, and board.

Enrollment and SAT Range

UIC has a 73% acceptance rate, making it somewhat competitive for admission. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1140-1360.

Majors

UIC offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its 15 colleges. Some of the most popular majors include Psychology, Biology, and Computer Science.

UIC also offers several specialized programs, such as the Honors College, which provides an enriched academic experience for high-achieving students. Additionally, the university is strongly committed to research, with opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research projects with faculty members.

Community Colleges

UIC has partnerships with several community colleges in the Chicago area, making it easier for students to transfer credits and continue their education.

International Students

UIC is a diverse university with a significant population of international students. The university provides support services for international students, including English language classes, cultural events, and assistance with visas and immigration.

Overall, UIC is a strong choice for students seeking a high-quality education in the heart of Chicago. With its diverse student body, strong academic programs, and commitment to research, UIC offers a rich and rewarding educational experience.

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago is a private, Jesuit university in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1870 and is known for its strong commitment to social justice and diversity. With over 17,000 students, Loyola is one of the largest Catholic universities in the United States.

Annual Cost

According to US News & World Report, the annual cost of attendance at Loyola University Chicago for the 2022-2023 academic year is $49,188. This includes tuition, fees, room, and board. However, the actual cost may vary depending on a student’s financial aid package and other factors.

Enrollment and SAT Range

As of Fall 2021, Loyola University Chicago has an enrollment of 17,007 students, with 11,129 undergraduates and 5,878 graduate students. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is 1230-1420.

Majors

Loyola University Chicago offers over 80 undergraduate majors and 140 graduate, professional, and certificate programs across its 11 schools and colleges. The most popular majors include business, psychology, biology, nursing, and communication.

Student Loan Debt

According to the Institute for College Access and Success, the average student loan debt for Loyola University Chicago graduates in 2020 was $31,301. This is lower than the national average of $38,255. However, it is important to note that student loan debt can vary widely depending on a student’s financial situation and the amount of financial aid they receive.

Overall, Loyola University Chicago is a highly respected institution committed to social justice and diversity. Its wide range of academic programs and relatively low student loan debt make it an attractive option for many students.

Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) is a private research university located in Chicago. The university is known for its strong engineering, science, and technology programs. IIT is also recognized for its entrepreneurial spirit and its commitment to advancing technology for the betterment of society.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending IIT for the 2022-2023 academic year is $50,640. This includes tuition and fees, room and board, and other expenses. However, the university offers financial aid and scholarships to eligible students to help offset the cost of attendance.

Enrollment and SAT Range

IIT has a total enrollment of approximately 7,800 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1. The university has a competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of 54%. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1240-1450.

Majors

IIT offers a wide range of majors across its five colleges: Armour College of Engineering, College of Architecture, College of Computing, College of Science, and Stuart School of Business. Some of the most popular majors at IIT include computer science, mechanical engineering, architecture, and applied mathematics.

The university also offers several interdisciplinary programs, including environmental engineering and science, biomedical engineering, and entrepreneurship. Students can engage in research and hands-on projects through the university’s many research centers and labs.

Overall, IIT is a top choice for students seeking a rigorous science, engineering, and technology education. Its commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation provides students with unique opportunities to apply their education to real-world problems and positively impact society.

DePaul University

DePaul University is a private institution located in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 1898 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of 14,294 (fall 2021). DePaul University has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending DePaul University is approximately $44,000 for tuition and fees. However, the total cost of attendance, including room and board, books, and other expenses, can be over $60,000 per year. Financial aid is available to eligible students to help cover the cost of attendance.

Enrollment and SAT Range

DePaul University has an enrollment of over 22,000 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1. The average SAT score range for admitted students is between 1120 and 1320.

Majors

DePaul University offers over 300 undergraduate majors, including popular fields like accounting, marketing, and management. The university is known for its strong business, law, and communication programs. In addition, DePaul University has a well-regarded film school and offers programs in computer science, psychology, and education.

DePaul University has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university has a strong commitment to social justice and offers a variety of programs and resources to support underrepresented students.

Overall, DePaul University is a respected institution with a reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to diversity and social justice.

Bradley University

Bradley University is a private institution located in Peoria, Illinois. It was founded in 1897 and is known for its high-quality education and diverse student body. The university offers more than 185 undergraduate and graduate programs across 5 colleges.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of Bradley University is $37,800, including tuition and fees. However, the university also offers financial aid to eligible students to help cover the cost of attendance.

Enrollment and SAT Range

As of Fall 2022, Bradley University has approximately 5,400 students. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1120-1310.

Majors

Bradley University offers a wide range of majors across its 5 colleges. Some of the popular majors include Business Administration, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Nursing, and Psychology. The university also offers several unique programs such as Interactive Media, Sports Communication, and Game Design.

The Foster College of Business at Bradley University is highly ranked and recognized for its outstanding accounting, finance, and marketing programs. The Caterpillar College of Engineering and Technology is also well-regarded and offers programs in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

Student Life

Bradley University has a vibrant student life with over 240 student organizations and clubs. The university also has a strong athletic program with 15 NCAA Division I teams. Students can also participate in community service and outreach programs through the Lewis J. Burger Center for Student Leadership and Public Service.

Conclusion

Overall, Bradley University is an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education in a supportive and diverse community. With its range of programs, strong academic reputation, and vibrant student life, Bradley University is a top choice for students in Illinois and beyond.

Illinois State University

Illinois State University is a public university located in Normal, Illinois. It is ranked #219 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges. Here are some important details about Illinois State University:

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attendance at Illinois State University is $14,757 for in-state students and $26,678 for out-of-state students. This includes tuition, fees, room, and board. The university offers various financial aid options to help students pay for their education.

Enrollment and SAT Range

Illinois State University has an enrollment of approximately 20,000 students. The average SAT score range for admitted students is 1080-1280. The university has a selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 82%.

Majors

Illinois State University offers over 160 undergraduate majors and 100 graduate programs. Some of the most popular majors include education, business, health sciences, and communication. The university also has a strong program in information technology.

Education

Illinois State University is known for its strong education program, with the College of Education ranked #84 in Best Colleges for Education in America by Niche. The university has a long history of preparing teachers and education professionals.

Student Loan Debt

Illinois State University has a relatively low average student loan debt of $26,000 for graduates. The university offers various resources and programs to help students manage their finances and minimize their debt.

In summary, Illinois State University is a public university with a strong education program and a diverse range of majors. The university has a selective admissions process and offers various financial aid options to help students pay for their education. With a relatively low average student loan debt, Illinois State University is a great option for students looking for a quality education at an affordable cost.

Wheaton College

Wheaton College is a private Christian liberal arts college located in Wheaton, Illinois. It is ranked #63 in the National Liberal Arts Colleges category by U.S. News & World Report for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Annual Cost

The annual cost of attending Wheaton College is $42,240 for tuition and fees. The college also offers financial aid to eligible students to help cover the cost of attendance.

Enrollment and SAT Range

Wheaton College has an enrollment of approximately 2,400 undergraduate students. The SAT range for admitted students is 1310-1490.

Majors

Wheaton College offers over 40 majors across various disciplines, including Business and Economics, Communication, Education, English, History, Mathematics, Psychology, and many more. The college also offers pre-professional programs in Medicine, Law, and Engineering.

The college is known for its strong programs in the Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as its commitment to integrating faith and learning in all areas of study. Students at Wheaton College are encouraged to explore their interests and passions through a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities.

Educational Value

Wheaton College is committed to providing an excellent liberal arts education at a great value. The college’s faculty are highly qualified and dedicated to helping students succeed both academically and personally. The college also offers various resources and support services to help students achieve their goals.

Overall, Wheaton College is a great choice for students seeking a rigorous academic experience in a supportive Christian community. The college’s commitment to integrating faith and learning makes it a unique and valuable educational opportunity for students of all backgrounds.

Best Illinois Colleges by Major