Best Online Colleges in Illinois
Recent changes have transformed education for the better in Illinois.
As part of the state’s 2010 Illinois Public Agenda for College and Career Success, colleges and universities began significantly increasing their efforts to create quality online programs. As a result, there are several excellent online colleges in Illinois. In particular, Illinois colleges and universities offer dozens of online programs in business and business–related concentrations, including McKendree University’s master’s degree in sports management and DePaul University’s master’s in business information technology. Chicago also offers many opportunities for internships and other career–related field work.
While tuition can be relatively high, many of the state’s higher education institutions offer generous financial aid in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Enrolling in one of the many online schools in Illinois is a good choice for students who seek a more flexible education, as most online programs allow students to complete coursework at their own pace. If you’re living in the state and are looking to head back to school, now is the right time to pursue an online degree in Illinois.
The Best Online Colleges in Illinois
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, IL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Illinois at Chicago is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The public institution makes 14 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has a track record in academic success through online coursework.
The school's main campus in Chicago hosts academic and career services offices available to online learners. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. The school also facilitates internships that help students gain real-world experience. An accredited degree is awarded to learners upon completing the program.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
University of Illinois at Chicago at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 7,719
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 5%
Admission Rate: 73%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$11,924
- Out-of-state$26,224
- In-State$13,276
- Out-of-state$23,850
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled32,324
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Loyola University Chicago
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Loyola University Chicago ranks among the best online colleges. The private institution's seven online degree options include offerings at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
The physical campus in Chicago employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school's internship program helps many students prepare for their future careers. An accredited degree is awarded to learners upon completing the program.
Contact the school directly to learn about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Loyola University Chicago at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,521
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: Data not available
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 2%
Admission Rate: 67%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$44,105
- Out-of-state$44,105
- In-State$18,594
- Out-of-state$18,594
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled17,159
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Springfield
- Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Illinois at Springfield is a fantastic choice for online learners. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate level can choose from 32 options at this public institution. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
Online learners benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Springfield campus. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs, academic advising, and career-planning services. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. Upon completion of all program requirements, students receive an accredited degree.
More information about which programs are available online and how to apply are available by contacting the school.
University of Illinois at Springfield at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,006
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Online Master's Programs: 12
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 50%
Admission Rate: 77%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$9,520
- Out-of-state$15,948
- In-State$8,270
- Out-of-state$15,240
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled4,275
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
- Carbondale, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale provides one of the best online college experiences available. The public institution offers 30 remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate level. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.
Online learners can work with academic and career services professionals located at the Carbondale campus. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with these academic advisors. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Program graduates receive a fully accredited degree.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 4,417
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 12%
Admission Rate: 66%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$9,456
- Out-of-state$23,640
- In-State$11,268
- Out-of-state$28,170
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled11,695
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Lewis University
- Romeoville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Lewis University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Students who wish to study remotely at this private school can choose from 25 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Romeoville campus are available to help online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career-planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
Lewis University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,706
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 20%
Admission Rate: 64%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$33,270
- Out-of-state$33,270
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled6,359
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a leader in online education. Remote degrees at graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this public school. The institution's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.
From its Champaign campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Internships are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. The program grants graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Interested applicants can contact the school for further information about the application process.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 20,199
Online Bachelor's Programs: 1
Online Master's Programs: 30
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 9%
Admission Rate: 59%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$14,188
- Out-of-state$33,127
- In-State$14,997
- Out-of-state$28,404
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled51,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Lincoln Christian University
- Lincoln, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Lincoln Christian University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar programs. A total of six online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.
The academic and career advisors located at the Lincoln campus are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career-planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Graduates receive a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
Lincoln Christian University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 289
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 3
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 19%
Admission Rate: Data not available
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$13,590
- Out-of-state$13,590
- In-State$8,154
- Out-of-state$8,154
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled672
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
McKendree University
- Lebanon, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
McKendree University ranks among the best online colleges. The private institution makes 22 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
Online learners benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Lebanon campus. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with these academic advisors. The school's internship program helps many students prepare for their future careers. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates receive an accredited degree.
Potential applicants can contact the school for additional details about program availability and the application process.
McKendree University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,067
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Online Master's Programs: 6
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 33%
Admission Rate: 63%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$30,540
- Out-of-state$30,540
- In-State$9,522
- Out-of-state$9,522
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled2,292
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
University of St. Francis
- Joliet, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of St. Francis offers a high-quality online college experience. Enrollees at this private college can choose from 24 programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The school's substantial track record in online education and good academic reputation attract many distance learners.
Academic and career-preparation services are available to all students, even those outside of the Joliet campus. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. The school also facilitates internships that help students gain real-world experience. The program grants graduates an accredited degree upon completion.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
University of St. Francis at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,375
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 29%
Admission Rate: 46%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$34,000
- Out-of-state$34,000
- In-State$13,464
- Out-of-state$13,464
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate46%
- Students Enrolled3,776
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Illinois University
- Charleston, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Eastern Illinois University is a fantastic choice for online learners. The public institution offers 33 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
Online degree-seekers benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Charleston campus. Students who connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. The school also facilitates internships that help learners gain real-world experience. Graduates receive a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.
School representatives can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
Eastern Illinois University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,639
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 15
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 28%
Admission Rate: 53%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$8,875
- Out-of-state$11,045
- In-State$7,356
- Out-of-state$17,654
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate53%
- Students Enrolled7,806
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Illinois Institute of Technology
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Illinois Institute of Technology is a fantastic choice for online learners. Enrollees at this private college can choose from 15 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.
Academic and career service professionals based out of the Chicago campus can help online learners. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship program. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
Illinois Institute of Technology at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,019
Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available
Online Master's Programs: 15
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%
Admission Rate: 60%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$47,299
- Out-of-state$47,299
- In-State$29,487
- Out-of-state$29,487
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled6,515
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
DePaul University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
DePaul University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Students who wish to study remotely at this private school can choose from 17 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.
Career and academic service associates located at the Chicago campus also assist online learners. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career-preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completing their program.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 6,568
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 14
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 6%
Admission Rate: 68%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$40,551
- Out-of-state$40,551
- In-State$19,584
- Out-of-state$19,584
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled22,064
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Aurora University
- Aurora, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Aurora University has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. The private institution's 14 online degrees include offerings at both graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.
Online learners not located near the Aurora campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Program graduates receive a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.
Aurora University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,252
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 19%
Admission Rate: 87%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted
- In-State$24,800
- Out-of-state$24,800
- In-State$12,600
- Out-of-state$12,600
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled6,246
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
National Louis University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
National Louis University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. A total of 31 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.
Online learners not located near the Chicago campus can still take advantage of academic and career advising services. Degree-seekers can also connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
National Louis University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,311
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Online Master's Programs: 14
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 40%
Admission Rate: 98%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$13,200
- Out-of-state$13,200
- In-State$11,646
- Out-of-state$11,646
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled7,005
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Roosevelt University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Roosevelt University has online programming that ranks favorably among similar opportunities. Remote degrees at graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this private school. Many distance learners enroll here because the school has a strong academic reputation and experience in online education.
The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Chicago campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career-preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon program completion.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
Roosevelt University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,792
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Online Master's Programs: 5
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%
Admission Rate: 67%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$30,876
- Out-of-state$30,876
- In-State$20,858
- Out-of-state$20,858
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled4,071
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Benedictine University
- Lisle, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Benedictine University is a leader in online education. The private institution offers 23 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Lisle campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship program. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree.
More information about which programs are available online and how to apply are available by contacting the school.
Benedictine University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,832
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 6
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 22%
Admission Rate: 42%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$31,084
- Out-of-state$31,084
- In-State$18,273
- Out-of-state$18,273
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate42%
- Students Enrolled4,401
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
Olivet Nazarene University
- Bourbonnais, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Olivet Nazarene University ranks among the best online colleges. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose from 21 online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics leads many distance learners to apply.
Online learners not located near the Bourbonnais campus can still take advantage of academic and career-advising services. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with advisors. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Program graduates receive fully accredited degrees.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Olivet Nazarene University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,505
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 21%
Admission Rate: 58%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$36,080
- Out-of-state$36,080
- In-State$13,420
- Out-of-state$13,420
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled4,317
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
North Park University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
North Park University offers a high-quality online college experience. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose from 12 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
Online learners benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Chicago campus. Degree-seekers can participate in career-planning events like virtual job fairs by connecting with academic advisors. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Program graduates receive a fully accredited degree.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
North Park University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 583
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 7
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 15%
Admission Rate: 48%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$30,360
- Out-of-state$30,360
- In-State$13,896
- Out-of-state$13,896
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled2,892
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Greenville University
- Greenville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online degree-seekers should consider Greenville University. Students who wish to study remotely at this private school can choose from nine online programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for its academic strength.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Greenville campus. Advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Students can also take advantage of internships to gain hands-on experience. Program graduates receive a degree with full accreditation.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
Greenville University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 551
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 5
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 15%
Admission Rate: 56%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$27,580
- Out-of-state$27,580
- In-State$8,082
- Out-of-state$8,082
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate56%
- Students Enrolled1,092
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Quincy University
- Quincy, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Quincy University is a leader in online education. The private institution offers three online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.
The physical campus in Quincy employs academic and career service professionals who can help online learners. Online offerings by academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. Internships are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.
Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.
Quincy University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 464
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 1
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 6%
Admission Rate: 62%
Accepts Transfer Credits: Data not available
- In-State$30,450
- Out-of-state$30,450
- In-State$10,800
- Out-of-state$10,800
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate62%
- Students Enrolled1,148
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Colleges
Illinois
2023
Online Colleges in Illinois Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in Illinois based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
