Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2023

Do you want to pursue your undergraduate or graduate degree program in an online format? Then it will be best for you to consider pursuing your degree program from one of the top online colleges in Illinois.

The best online schools in Illinois provide high-quality education at no extra cost. In this article, we have published the top online colleges in Illinois offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs to choose from.

We take into account aspects like tuition rates (in-state and out-of-state), programs offered, graduation rates, and student-to-teacher ratios when selecting the top online institutions in Illinois.

We hope that this list of the best online universities in Illinois will help you to make the right career path. Below is the list of top online colleges in Illinois to pursue your undergraduate or graduate degree programs.

Best Online Colleges in Illinois

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

There are 90 online degrees and certificates offered by the University of Illinois virtual college. Undergraduates have the option of pursuing degrees in highly demanding professions like early childhood education.

There are several master’s degree options available for graduate students which include the MBA and master of engineering programs. The institution features an excellent M.Ed. program for teacher professional development.

For prospective Illinois students, different admission requirements apply. Transcripts from high school and, if desired, SAT or ACT scores are submitted by first-year undergraduate applicants.

Average Cost Per Credit:

• Undergraduate, in-state | $416-$500
• Undergraduate, out of state | $416-$500
• Graduate, in-state | $298-$1,172
• Graduate, out of state | $298-$1,172

2. University of St. Francis

The University of St. Francis online program is designed for working students who want to pursue an online undergraduate degree program. Transfer students can earn a degree in fields like nursing, healthcare management, and business.

By transferring credits, students can easily complete their degrees faster and earn credit for military and work experience. Online graduate degree programs include MS in management, MSW, MSN, and an MBA.

USF’s affordable and rigorous liberal arts programs make it one of the top online institutions in Illinois. A 2.5 cumulative GPA on all previous college credits is required of transfer applicants for undergraduate programs.

Average Cost Per Credit:

• Undergraduate, in-state | $425
• Undergraduate, out of state | $425
• Graduate, in-state | $599-$798
• Graduate, out of state | $599-$798

3. University of Illinois at Chicago

First-generation students are especially welcome at the University of Illinois Chicago. The school is well known for its diverse student body. Bachelor’s degrees in subjects like nursing and business administration can be obtained online by working professionals.

Students may also wish to look into the coding and cyber boot camps offered by UIC if they want to obtain in-demand computer skills quickly.

A wide range of graduate degrees, including an MS in health informatics and an online MBA are available through the university. For admission, first-year applicants must have a competitive GPA and submit their high school transcripts in order to be admitted.

Average Cost Per Credit:

• Undergraduate, in-state | $318-$500
• Undergraduate, out of state | $318-$500
• Graduate, in-state | $500-$1250
• Graduate, out of state | $500-$1250

4. University of Illinois at Springfield

The University of Illinois at Springfield offers 52 online programs to choose from. Bachelor’s degrees are offered in a variety of disciplines, including information systems security, psychology, and business administration, according to the academic catalog. The liberal studies major enables students to create a personalized educational journey.

Students can pursue online master’s degrees in disciplines like legal studies, finance, education, and management information systems thanks to the school’s robust graduate program. Online students at UIS can enroll at e-tuition rates, which are less expensive than those charged to traditional out-of-state students.

Transcripts from high school and college prep courses are prerequisites for first-year candidates. UIS does not require the SAT or ACT.

Average Cost Per Credit:

• Undergraduate, in-state | $359-$368
• Undergraduate, out of state | $359-$368
• Graduate, in-state | $366
• Graduate, out of state | $366

5. Judson University

Judson University offers a wide range of online programs. At Judson and other colleges, learners can earn an AA in liberal arts that counts towards a bachelor’s degree.

Judson University awards bachelor’s degrees in organizational leadership, business administration, human services, and applied psychology.

Three fully online graduate programs are available to students: an MBA, an MA in organizational leadership, and an MA in human services administration. Weekend residencies are necessary for the ministry leadership master’s program. High school or GED transcripts are required for admission.

Average Cost Per Credit:

• Undergraduate, in-state | $480-$580
• Undergraduate, out of state | $480-$580
• Graduate, in-state | $750
• Graduate, out of state | $750

6. Lewis University

Lewis University is one of the top distance-learning universities in Illinois. Students at the institution can pursue online degrees while working full-time.

Lewis University provides expedited bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, computer science, and business administration.

Students who have substantial college credit or professional experience can enroll in the BA in professional studies program.

This curriculum mainly emphasizes class projects to help students develop their decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

The graduate program provides MS degrees in public safety administration, data science, and cybersecurity. When applying, transfer students must include all of their undergraduate transcripts.