Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2025

Distance learning is a popular option for students with busy personal or work lives. Many online schools accommodate these learners by offering classes with flexible schedules while providing extras like financial assistance, online student support, and accelerated degree paths.

Are you interested in distance education? You're not alone. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data shows that nearly half (49.5%) of Illinois students were partially or exclusively enrolled in online courses in 2023. No matter your degree preferences, you can find top colleges in Illinois offering highly-ranked programs.

Below, we'll highlight some of the best online colleges. You'll discover where you can find accredited online degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels covering subjects that range from computer science to healthcare. We'll also answer frequently asked questions about online colleges in Illinois and share tips for making distance education more affordable.

Best Accredited Online Colleges in Illinois

If you're looking for alternatives to on-campus classes, online schools in Illinois offer the opportunity to earn an accredited degree from home. Explore the list below to find top-ranked programs throughout the state.

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is ranked one of the nation's top three online graduate education programs by U.S. News & World Report. The school has also earned top-five rankings for several engineering master's programs. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in social work, aerospace engineering, human resource development, and beyond.

Online learners can benefit from distance library services, online writing support, and other student resources. Over half of enrollees (61%) receive grants and other financial aid to lower costs.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $16,004

Out-of-State: $34,501

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $15,545

Out-of-State: $30,348

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 45%

Retention Rate: 94%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

2. University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago offers multiple online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in areas of study such as nursing, engineering, public administration, and marketing. Students with associate degrees or some college credit could enroll in the school's bachelor's degree completion programs in business administration or health information management.

U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Illinois Chicago as one of the top three schools in the nation for best online bachelor's programs. Eight out of 10 enrollees receive financial aid to make degrees more affordable.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $14,338

Out-of-State: $29,360

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $14,108

Out-of-State: $25,481

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 79%

Retention Rate: 78%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

3. DePaul University

DePaul University students can choose from online bachelor's and master's degrees in business administration, computer science, healthcare administration, nonprofit management, taxation, and beyond. The university has been ranked in the top 10 for its online bachelor's in business programs and the top 25 for its online bachelor's in psychology.

DePaul offers 99% of its enrollees financial aid with new freshmen receiving up to $38,400 annually. Scholarships include the State Scholar Plus Scholarship, which awards packages of up to $100,000 over four years.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $44,460

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $22,135

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 70%

Retention Rate: 87%

Institution Type: Private university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

4. University of Illinois Springfield

The University of Illinois Springfield is home to dozens of fully online degree and certificate programs with an asynchronous learning format that requires no live classes. Students can choose from online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in public administration, accounting, philosophy, computer science, and more. The school's online bachelor's programs are ranked among the nation's top 40 by U.S. News & World Report.

Students benefit from online tutoring, a tech support help desk, and library access. The university awards 98% of its enrollees financial aid to increase college degree affordability.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $12,252

Out-of-State: $22,017

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $8,910

Out-of-State: $16,146

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 82%

Retention Rate: 81%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

5. University of St. Francis

The University of St. Francis is one of Illinois' largest online education providers. U.S. News & World Report has ranked its online master's in education among the nation's top 50 and its online bachelor's programs and online master's in nursing among the top 75. The university offers adult undergraduate online degrees in business administration, supply chain management, and beyond.

Students pay varying rates for online programs; however, its BSN completion program and adult undergraduate degrees cost $425 per credit. All enrollees receive financial aid to reduce costs.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $37,000

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $14,382

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 58%

Retention Rate: 73%

Institution Type: Private university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

6. Illinois State University

Illinois State University in Normal offers fully online, asynchronous courses in dozens of undergraduate and graduate programs exploring nursing, special education, business administration, music, English education, data science, and more. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Illinois State University among the top 55 schools offering the nation's best online bachelor's programs.

Individuals attending online have access to academic and student support services including tutoring, library databases, academic advising, and counseling. The university awards 98% of its enrollees financial aid saving thousands in tuition costs.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $16,021

Out-of-State: $28,086

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $7,971

Out-of-State: $10,608

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 86%

Retention Rate: 81%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

7. Lewis University

Lewis University in Romeoville offers over a dozen fully online degrees for students looking to earn bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Fields of study include business analytics, cybersecurity, nursing, aviation and transportation, and project management. The school's online business management, computer science, and criminal justice bachelor's programs are accelerated.

U.S. News & World Report has ranked Lewis University's online master's in criminal justice among the nation's top 25 programs. Program costs start at an affordable tuition rate of $445 per credit. All learners receive financial aid.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $37,882

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $15,210

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 74%

Retention Rate: 84%

Institution Type: Private University

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

8. Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois University in Charleston offers over 40 bachelor's degree, degree completion, master's degree, and minor programs for students interested in online study. Programs are available in health communication, music education, nursing, human services, cybersecurity, and talent development. The university's online bachelor's in business programs have been ranked among the nation's best by U.S. News & World Report.

Students benefit from online support services and affordable tuition rates. Nearly all learners (97%) lower school expenses with help from financial aid.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State: $13,403

Out-of-State: $15,879

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State: $8,060

Out-of-State: $19,345

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 68%

Retention Rate: 70%

Institution Type: Public university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

9. McKendree University

McKendree University is home to over a dozen online undergraduate and graduate programs with multiple specializations and endorsements. The school has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for offering reputable online bachelor's and master's programs. Some include psychology, cyber defense, sociology, education, and nursing practice.

The university awards 89% of its enrollees financial aid and offers tuition discounts to increase savings. Online undergraduate tuition costs $330 to $420 per credit hour, and online graduate tuition starts at $445 per credit.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $34,070

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $9,450

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 68%

Retention Rate: 68%

Institution Type: Private university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

10. Greenville University

Greenville University offers online undergraduate programs for adult learners and working professionals. Bachelor of Science degrees are available in agribusiness, business management, criminal justice, early childhood education, elementary education, and organizational leadership. Online undergraduates at Greenville pay $485 per credit hour.

Greenville offers tutoring services that students can access online through D2L to enhance their studies. The university grants 100% of its students financial aid and provides an automatic merit scholarship offering eligible enrollees between $17,000 and $21,000.

Tuition Costs

Average Undergrad Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $30,598

Average Graduate Tuition

In-State & Out-of-State: $8,784

College Stats

Acceptance Rate: 94%

Retention Rate: 70%

Institution Type: Private university

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Other Featured Online Colleges

Do you want to explore more colleges providing online programs? Review this list of schools offering accredited online degrees outside of Illinois.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University is a top-ranked institution for innovation and sustainability. The institution offers nearly 400 online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in art history, information technology, liberal studies, health informatics, and psychology. Online learners are supported during their academic journeys with online tutoring, success coaches, writing center services, and mental health counseling.

Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers over 110 online undergraduate and graduate programs for students interested in accounting, creative writing, clinical mental health counseling, and beyond. Microcredentials and certificate programs are available in engineering mechanics, professional sales, aging studies, and more. OSU's online bachelor's programs have been ranked in the nation's top 10 by U.S. News & World Report for over a decade.

Capella University

Capella University offers over 40 programs and 90 specializations including online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees for students interested in healthcare administration, social work, clinical psychology, and more. The institution offers a GuidedPath learning format for students who want structured learning and a FlexPath option for students interested in setting their schedules and completing courses at their own pace.

How We Rank Schools

Our team selected the colleges and universities in the rank list above using a rigorous vetting process backed by NCES and U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data. Each institution has met the following criteria for delivering a quality experience in higher education.

• Accredited: The Illinois schools have received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Reputable: We confirmed that accredited institutions in this list are respected, considering factors such as student outcomes and retention rates.
• Online student support: These colleges and universities help online students excel in their studies by offering tutoring, library access, or other support services.
• Affordable: The institutions above increase degree affordability by offering financial aid, scholarships, or lower tuition rates.

Pros and Cons of Online Degrees in Illinois

Earning an online degree in Illinois offers plenty of benefits; however, it's not always a perfect experience. Before enrolling in a program, review the pros and cons of online degrees below:

Pros of earning an online degree:

• More program options: Online learning allows you to attend schools outside of your area, which opens doors to a broader selection of programs.
• Self-paced options: Many online institutions offer asynchronous courses or competency-based formats that allow students to learn on their schedules.
• Accredited programs: Most institutions offering accredited on-campus programs ensure their online programs have the same accreditation.

Cons of earning an online degree:

• Lack of personal connections: Remote learning can make connecting with classmates difficult.
• Extra discipline needed: Self-paced online programs require greater discipline and time management skills to keep up with coursework.
• Technical knowledge needed: Students uncomfortable using online learning technology could struggle to navigate their courses.

How To Choose an Online Degree Program in Illinois

Picking an online degree program in Illinois requires time, effort, and research. You want to ensure any school you select has been accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Also, confirm that all institutions offer your desired major, specialization, and minor at the right degree level.

You can narrow your list of schools by checking school retention rates, student outcomes, and accolades. Verifying your ability to meet their admission requirements (ex. high school/college GPA, prerequisite courses, etc.) is also important. Look for schools that fall within your budget or offer financial aid and scholarships to lower costs. Also, look for perks such as generous transfer policies and student resources for online learners.

How Much Does an Online Degree in Illinois Cost?

The average in-state tuition for students earning online bachelor's degrees at public schools in Illinois is just about $349 per credit. Out-of-state learners pay less than $430 per credit. The specific amounts students pay at online colleges in Illinois depend on factors such as enrollment status (part-time vs. full-time) and degree type (ex. bachelor's, master's, or doctoral).

Tips on How To Make Online College More Affordable in Illinois

Selecting an institution offering cheap online degrees in Illinois is a great way to make your online learning experience more affordable. But it's not the only way. You could save by earning college credits for your professional certifications or work experience. Many institutions offer prior learning credits for CLEP and AP exams.

Are you interested in additional ways to reduce the cost of an online degree at an Illinois college? Review the list below for more ways to save.

• accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA
• accredited online colleges with tuition payment plans
• accredited online colleges that accept the Pell Grant
• accredited online colleges that accept transfer credits
• accredited online colleges with no application fee
• accredited online colleges with scholarships

Illinois Scholarships & Grants

Scholarships and grants are forms of financial aid that don't require repayment. NCES data reveals that full-time, first-time undergraduate students in Illinois received $16,851 in grant or scholarship aid in the 2022-23 academic year. Explore the list below to find great scholarships and grants for Illinois learners.

Monetary Award Program (MAP) Grant

This state-funded, need-based grant awards Illinois residents without a bachelor's or professional degree $300 to $8,400 for their college education.

Award Amount: Up to $8,400

Deadline: N/A

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois

Students can choose from 127+ scholarships awarding over $500K+ each year. Scholarships are granted in the fall, winter (main), and spring cycles.

Award Amount: Varies by scholarship

Deadline: Varying deadlines

CRC Scholarship

The Corporate Relocation Council (CRC) offers a scholarship program for current high school seniors who relocated to the Chicagoland areas between the ninth and twelfth grade.

Award Amount: $2,500

Deadline: March 3

Top Majors for Illinois Graduates

Earning a degree that jumpstarts your dream career starts with picking the right major. If you're still deciding what subject to study, consider some of the top majors for Illinois graduates below.

• Psychology: Psychology programs focus on mental processes and brain development. A bachelor's degree in psychology prepares students for careers as social workers, psychiatric technicians, and more. Advanced degrees lead to psychologist careers.
• Registered nursing: Many aspiring and current registered nurses pursue Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees to find roles as hospice nurses, nurse educators, and beyond. BSN programs explore anatomy, microbiology, and ethics in healthcare.
• Business administration and management: This major explores finance, marketing, strategic planning, and how businesses operate. A bachelor's degree prepares students for careers as marketing managers, business analysts, and sales managers.
• Health/healthcare administration: Students learn healthcare business fundamentals such as budgeting, financing, and healthcare delivery. Bachelor's degree holders can find careers as healthcare administrators and clinical managers.
• Accounting: An accounting program teaches students to analyze and report financial data and comply with government regulations. Students with a bachelor's degree can start careers as auditors and accountants.

FAQs About Online Degrees in Illinois

Are you ready to pursue an online degree in your field of choice at an Illinois undergraduate or graduate school? Review the FAQs below to learn more about these programs.

How Quickly Can I Earn My Degree Online in Illinois?

You can find accelerated online degrees in Illinois that help students earn their bachelor's degree in two or fewer years or their master's degree in less than a year. You can also attend a school that accepts transfer credits to help students graduate sooner.

Is Online Learning Right for Me?

Distance learning is a great experience for students who want to avoid commutes to a campus and attend classes with flexible schedules. However, learners must be self-motivated and great at managing their time to excel. If you possess these skills, online learning might be right for you.

What Is the Easiest Online Program To Get Into in Illinois?

It's easiest to gain admission to online programs from Illinois schools with higher acceptance rates. Greenville University has an acceptance rate of 94%, making it a great choice for students who want to increase their likelihood of enrollment.

Is Online College in Illinois Less Expensive Than In-Person College?

Attending a public school in Illinois online costs a bit more than attending in person. On average, in-state learners pay just under $350 per credit for an online bachelor's degree; however, in-person students pay about $300 per credit.

Are There Online Master's Programs in Illinois?

Many online colleges in Illinois offer accredited master's programs for graduate students. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Lewis University offer top-ranked master's degrees.

Find an Online Degree Today

Begin your journey toward an amazing experience in online higher education by exploring the colleges and universities on Learn.org. Discover how their programs can help you reach your academic and career goals.