Accredited Online Colleges in Illinois
Online education in Illinois offers a flexible path to earning a degree. Students can choose from nearly 50 universities with virtual programs.
These schools provide many benefits, including a wide range of study options and financial aid opportunities.
Many online programs in Illinois use an asynchronous format. This allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule. It can also help reduce tuition costs.
Whether you live in Illinois or plan to move there, online education opens up new possibilities for learning and career growth.
Related Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Key Takeaways
- Illinois has a diverse selection of online colleges and programs
- Asynchronous courses offer flexibility and potential cost savings
- Online education in Illinois can lead to various career opportunities
Best Online Colleges in Illinois
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Location: Champaign, IL
Admission Rate: 45%
Average SAT Score: 1440
Undergraduate Enrollment: 34,031
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $31,636
In-state Tuition and Fees: $15,714
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $33,686
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $19,500
Median Earnings (10 years): $81,054
Lewis University
Location: Romeoville, IL
Admission Rate: 74%
Average SAT Score: 1133
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,650
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $44,513
In-state Tuition and Fees: $36,530
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $36,530
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $21,500
Median Earnings (10 years): $66,099
Illinois Institute of Technology
Location: Chicago, IL
Admission Rate: 61%
Average SAT Score: 1328
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,877
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $67,233
In-state Tuition and Fees: $50,640
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $50,640
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $82,592
Bradley University
Location: Peoria, IL
Admission Rate: 75%
Average SAT Score: 1208
Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,133
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $50,881
In-state Tuition and Fees: $37,800
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $37,800
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $27,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $66,852
Elmhurst University
Location: Elmhurst, IL
Admission Rate: 76%
Average SAT Score: 1107
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,897
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $51,455
In-state Tuition and Fees: $40,232
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $40,232
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,489
Median Earnings (10 years): $61,462
University of Illinois Springfield
Location: Springfield, IL
Admission Rate: 82%
Average SAT Score: 1125
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,348
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $24,287
In-state Tuition and Fees: $12,077
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $21,842
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $19,128
Median Earnings (10 years): $57,103
DePaul University
Location: Chicago, IL
Admission Rate: 70%
Average SAT Score: 1221
Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,968
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $57,824
In-state Tuition and Fees: $42,840
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $42,840
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $23,168
Median Earnings (10 years): $68,751
Dominican University
Location: River Forest, IL
Admission Rate: 90%
Average SAT Score: 1012
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,119
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $43,574
In-state Tuition and Fees: $36,500
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $36,500
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $24,411
Median Earnings (10 years): $60,327
Loyola University Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL
Admission Rate: 79%
Average SAT Score: 1308
Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,626
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $62,997
In-state Tuition and Fees: $49,498
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $49,498
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $24,157
Median Earnings (10 years): $71,530
Olivet Nazarene University
Location: Bourbonnais, IL
Admission Rate: 58%
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,460
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $49,685
In-state Tuition and Fees: $37,940
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $37,940
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $53,213
Aurora University
Location: Aurora, IL
Admission Rate: 82%
Average SAT Score: 1087
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,987
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $38,012
In-state Tuition and Fees: $27,420
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $27,420
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,318
Median Earnings (10 years): $58,709
North Park University
Location: Chicago, IL
Admission Rate: 68%
Average SAT Score: 1120
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,866
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $41,988
In-state Tuition and Fees: $34,020
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $34,020
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,500
Median Earnings (10 years): $59,572
Eastern Illinois University
Location: Charleston, IL
Admission Rate: 68%
Average SAT Score: 1000
Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,586
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $25,334
In-state Tuition and Fees: $13,101
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $15,528
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $21,500
Median Earnings (10 years): $51,989
Western Illinois University
Location: Macomb, IL
Admission Rate: 75%
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,196
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $27,039
In-state Tuition and Fees: $14,406
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $14,406
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,251
Median Earnings (10 years): $54,163
McKendree University
Location: Lebanon, IL
Admission Rate: 68%
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,528
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $46,576
In-state Tuition and Fees: $33,430
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $33,430
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $23,250
Median Earnings (10 years): $58,572
Judson University
Location: Elgin, IL
Admission Rate: 58%
Average SAT Score: 1032
Undergraduate Enrollment: 781
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $39,201
In-state Tuition and Fees: $30,910
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $30,910
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $25,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $56,313
Greenville University
Location: Greenville, IL
Admission Rate: 94%
Average SAT Score: 1003
Undergraduate Enrollment: 902
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $43,239
In-state Tuition and Fees: $30,548
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $30,548
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $23,875
Median Earnings (10 years): $46,827
Northeastern Illinois University
Location: Chicago, IL
Admission Rate: 63%
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,058
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $24,517
In-state Tuition and Fees: $12,101
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $22,192
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $14,600
Median Earnings (10 years): $52,234
Moody Bible Institute
Location: Chicago, IL
Admission Rate: 94%
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,716
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $31,963
In-state Tuition and Fees: $16,178
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $16,178
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $18,149
Median Earnings (10 years): $45,399
Concordia University-Chicago
Location: River Forest, IL
Admission Rate: 93%
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,285
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $44,022
In-state Tuition and Fees: $34,964
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $34,964
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $23,000
Median Earnings (10 years): $54,089
Lincoln Christian University
Location: Lincoln, IL
Admission Rate: Data unavailable
Average SAT Score: Data unavailable
Undergraduate Enrollment: 85
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Average Cost of Attendance: $21,428
In-state Tuition and Fees: $14,920
Out-of-state Tuition and Fees: $14,920
Median Total Debt After Graduation: $20,250
Median Earnings (10 years): $43,038
Cost Comparison of College Options in Illinois
Illinois offers various educational paths for students seeking higher education. The price tags differ based on the type of institution and learning format.
Public colleges in Illinois present the most budget-friendly choices. For in-state students, attending classes on campus costs about $300 per credit. Online courses at public schools are slightly pricier, averaging $349.50 per credit for in-state learners. Out-of-state students pay more, with online courses costing around $426.67 per credit.
Private colleges come with steeper costs. Online programs at private schools charge about $521.92 per credit. In-person classes at private institutions are the most expensive, with an average cost of $1,403.52 per credit.
Here's a breakdown of average costs per credit:
| School Type | Learning Format | Cost per Credit |
|---|---|---|
| Public | In-person | $300.00 |
| Public | Online (in-state) | $349.50 |
| Public | Online (out-of-state) | $426.67 |
| Private | Online | $521.92 |
| Private | In-person | $1,403.52 |
Online learning can bring extra fees like technology or distance learning charges. But it also cuts costs tied to campus life, such as:
- Transportation
- Parking
- Sports center fees
- Activity fees
Working students might get help with tuition from their employers. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing online degrees.
Students looking at out-of-state online schools should check for state reciprocity agreements. These deals can lower out-of-state tuition costs. Illinois belongs to the Midwestern Higher Education Compact. However, it doesn't take part in the multi-state tuition discount program.
Online colleges in Illinois often seek approval from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. This group is one of six trusted accreditation agencies in the U.S. Its Higher Learning Commission checks and approves degree-granting schools in the North Central region.
Many students choose online learning to advance their careers. A large number hope to switch jobs, update their skills, or seek promotions. Online programs offer flexibility, letting students balance work, family, and education.
When picking an online school, students should look at factors beyond cost. Program quality, job placement rates, and student support services are key considerations. The best choice depends on each student's goals, budget, and life situation.
Top 10 Growing Careers in Illinois
Illinois offers many exciting job opportunities for college graduates. From 2020 to 2030, several careers are expected to see rapid growth. Here's a look at some of the fastest-growing jobs in the state:
| Career | Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Pay (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Entertainment Agents | 56% | $115,530 |
| Nurse Practitioners | 44% | $122,310 |
| Statisticians | 35% | $105,560 |
| Logisticians | 29% | $71,180 |
| Healthcare Managers | 27% | $130,670 |
| Mathematical Scientists | 27% | $79,540 |
| Cybersecurity Experts | 25% | $114,060 |
| Actuaries | 25% | $131,080 |
| Physician Assistants | 24% | $124,180 |
| Operations Researchers | 23% | $99,480 |
These roles typically need at least a bachelor's degree. Online colleges in Illinois can help students prepare for these jobs. They offer chances to learn, make connections, and gain work experience in the local economy. The job market looks bright for graduates in these fields, with strong growth and good pay in many cases.
Common Questions About Online Colleges in Illinois
How many web-based colleges exist in Illinois?
Illinois offers numerous online college options. While the exact number changes, over 100 accredited institutions provide distance learning programs. These range from large public universities to smaller private colleges. Students can find a variety of degree levels and subjects available online.
Which Illinois online college has the simplest admission process?
Admission requirements vary by school. Some colleges have open enrollment policies, accepting most applicants with a high school diploma or GED. Others may consider factors like GPA, test scores, and essays. Community colleges often have easier admission processes compared to four-year universities.
What are typical costs for online programs in Illinois?
Online college costs in Illinois differ widely. In-state public universities may charge around $15,000 per year for tuition and fees. Private colleges can cost significantly more. Many schools offer financial aid to help offset expenses. Students should compare costs across multiple institutions to find affordable options.