Looking for a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting in Illinois? You should consider these top-tier undergraduate programs and jobs in the Accounting field.
Credit: James Andrews | iStock | Getty Images Plus
TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Credit: James Andrews | iStock | Getty Images Plus
Earning a degree in Illinois for Accounting can help you improve your career prospects. Bachelor's degrees can lead to diverse career paths, and students gain the skills necessary to move into advanced roles.
A bachelor's degree-holder is more likely to be employed than those with only a high school diploma.
Accounting Bachelor's Programs for You
Working and Living in Illinois in the Accounting Profession
Accounting is the process of recording, classifying, and summarizing financial transactions to provide information useful in making business decisions. Classes typically cover topics, such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, tax accounting, and auditing. Financial accounting focuses on the preparation of financial statements that are used to provide information about the financial performance of a business. Managerial accounting focuses on the use of accounting information to make decisions about the allocation of resources. Tax accounting focuses on the determination of the tax liability of a business. Auditing focuses on the evaluation of the financial statements of a business.
Illinois's median annual salary for all occupations is $46,630 a year, or $22.42 an hour for those that work in management. This number includes a total of 5.6 million employees from the state. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows that the lowest 10% of earners in the state earn about $24,470, while the highest 10% earn about $103,490. The following are statistics for accountants and auditors in Illinois.
Key
Accountants and Auditors in Illinois
Accountants and Auditors Nationally
All Occupations in Illinois
All Occupations Nationally
Salaries for Accountants and Auditors in Illinois and Nationwide
Chart
Bar chart with 5 bars.
The chart has 1 X axis displaying
salary types.
The chart has 1 Y axis displaying annual salaries in USD.
End of interactive chart.
Based on the cost-of-living index by MERIC, Illinois is ranked number 13 out of 51 states (including Washington, D.C.) on the list of states with the lowest cost of living. A cost-of-living index measures the average cost of living in the U.S. against the cost of living in specific regions of the country. According to the U.S. average, all locations are either above (more expensive) or below (less expensive) than average. On a 100 point scale, Illinois has a cost-of-living index of 91.4, which is -8.6% lower than the national average. Cost-of-living expenses in Illinois vary depending on the location.
Chart
Bar chart with 5 bars.
The chart has 1 X axis displaying.
The chart has 1 Y axis displaying values.
End of interactive chart.
Over the next decade, accountants and auditors can expect a growth rate of 6.9% in their profession. The BLS projects that the occupation's total employment will change from 1.4 million in 2020 to 1.5 million in 2030. You need to have a bachelor's degree to qualify for these positions. An example of a typical job title would be:
Accountants and auditors
Account Auditor
Accountant
Auditor
Auditor-In-Charge
CPA
Certified Public Accountant
Cost Accountant
Field Auditor
Financial Accountant
Bachelor's Degrees in Accounting in Illinois
#1 Bachelors Degrees in Accounting in Illinois
Aurora University
Aurora, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Aurora University operates a main campus in Aurora, offering a total of 48 bachelor's programs in both face-to-face and online formats. The school's accounting degree (bachelor of science) prepares students for the demands of a career through rigorous study, relevant coursework, and other learning opportunities. The accounting BS program prepares students for their post-graduate path, whether that is an accounting-specific career or graduate studies.
Students can receive guidance during their studies through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Prospective students also may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Aurora University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 87%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $24,800
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,800
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,200
Average Tuition
In-state
$25,600
Out-of-state
$25,600
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
6,265
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Bachelors Degrees in Accounting in Illinois
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking flexible study can choose from in-person or online bachelor's degree programs at DePaul University. The school's bachelor of science in business (BSB) degree in accountancy equips students with the skills needed to succeed in a career. The program prepares students for their post-graduate path, whether that be an accounting-specific career or graduate studies.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Students can also meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility.
DePaul University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 68%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $40,551
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $40,551
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $46,000
Average Tuition
In-state
$40,551
Out-of-state
$40,551
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
21,922
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Bachelors Degrees in Accounting in Illinois
Greenville University
Greenville, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Greenville University, a private college located in Greenville, Illinois, supports both in-person and online learning across 51 bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor of science in accounting is one of many robust degree programs offered by the not-for-profit college, equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge. Students can also apply their knowledge by pursuing a master's degree.
Students can receive guidance during their studies through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Students can also meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility.
Greenville University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 56%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $27,580
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $27,580
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,200
Average Tuition
In-state
$28,406
Out-of-state
$28,406
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
994
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Bachelors Degrees in Accounting in Illinois
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
From its main campus in Lebanon, McKendree University provides in-person and remote learning opportunities across 51 bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor's degree in accounting is one of many robust degree programs that equip students with industry-relevant knowledge. Students can pursue an accounting-relevant career or go on to study at the graduate level.
The institution connects students with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Prospective students may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
McKendree University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 63%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $30,540
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $30,540
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,200
Average Tuition
In-state
$31,100
Out-of-state
$31,100
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
2,200
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Bachelors Degrees in Accounting in Illinois
Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Western Illinois University, a public college located in Macomb, supports both in-person and online learning across 72 bachelor's degree programs. The school's bachelor of business in accountancy program equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. After completing the program, students can apply their knowledge to a career or graduate studies.
Students can access institutional support services throughout the duration of the program. Enrollees can also explore financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on eligibility. Financial aid enables student success, with 88% of all students receiving aid and 51% of all enrollees graduating.
Western Illinois University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 57%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,627
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,627
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,000
Average Tuition
In-state
$8,712
Out-of-state
$8,712
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
7,490
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Financing a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
Many opportunities for financial aid help students cover college costs. Scholarship, grant, fellowship, or work-study programs help many students lower the cost of a degree. Some students also use federal and private student loans to pay for school. The colleges you are interested in may also have their own scholarships available. It is always a good idea to do your research ahead of time and find out what kinds of financial aid might be offered.
Checklist for Maximizing Your Financial Aid:
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) helps enrollees cover costs.
The financial aid department should be aware that students are eligible for scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans.
Average Cost of Attending College in Illinois
College tuition in Illinois varies based on which institution you attend. There are some similarities that exist among institutions in both the public and private sectors. Take a look at the information below to decide whether attending a public institution is the right choice for you.
Public 4-Year School Tuition Rates: Illinois vs. National Average
Key
Illinois
National Average
Chart
Bar chart with 5 bars.
The chart has 1 X axis displaying
salary types.
The chart has 1 Y axis displaying annual salaries in USD.
End of interactive chart.
How about attending a private college or university instead of one that is public? The cost of education at private colleges is often higher. Take a look at the following graph to learn more about private colleges in Illinois.
Private 4-Year School Tuition Rates: Illinois vs. National Average
Key
Illinois
National Average
Chart
Bar chart with 5 bars.
The chart has 1 X axis displaying
salary types.
The chart has 1 Y axis displaying annual salaries in USD.
End of interactive chart.
Federal Student Loan Information
Would it be wise to take out student loans to pay for a degree? You should take certain things into consideration before taking out a loan.
It is imperative that you ensure you can make all payments on time.
If you are planning to advance your career goals, think about whether earning a degree from a particular school will help you.
You should understand the repayment schedule for your loans so that it does not cause undue hardship on your finances.
You can determine what students typically borrow by reviewing the data below.
Undergraduate Federal Loans
Demographic
Percent who borrowed
Amount borrowed
Total
66.6%
$27,400
Female
69.6%
$28,100
Male
62.5%
$26,500
White, not Hispanic or Latino
66.1%
$26,700
Black, not Hispanic or Latino
85.7%
$34,800
Hispanic or Latino/a, of any race
67.7%
$25,700
Asian, not Hispanic or Latino
43%
$22,700
Other or Two or more races,
not Hispanic or Latino
Among the main differences between an online degree and a degree completed on campus is the cost of the degree. Numerous advantages can be gained from online degree programs, including flexibility, affordability, and ease of use. There is usually a higher cost associated with on-campus degrees because of student fees. The benefits of attending classes, however, are numerous.
Public and private colleges differ in many ways. The cost varies depending on whether you choose a public or private school for your education. The cost of education at a public college can be offset by grants and scholarships. It is common for private institutions to charge tuition to their students, but merit scholarships are often available to students who demonstrate superior academic performance.
As a result of their smaller class sizes, professors at private colleges are often more available to students. Consider the pros and cons of attending a private institution versus a public one.
Pros and Cons
Private
Unique program offerings
Cultural or religious options
Local prestige
Higher costs
Less regulatory oversight
Public
Government-issued tuition costs
Government funding, benefits, and regulation
Oftentimes large classrooms
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do accountants and auditors make in Illinois?
The mean annual salary for accountants and auditors in Illinois is $78,430.
Are accounting graduates in high demand or not?
The total number of accountants and auditors is expected to change by 6.9% from 2020 to 2030.
Can you study for a bachelor's in accounting online?
A bachelor's degree in accounting can be earned online. Most schools in today's environment offer some form of online education.
In order to complete a bachelor's degree, how long does it typically take?
Typically, a bachelor's degree takes four years to complete, but the time needed varies by student.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
