5 Best Online Colleges in Chicago 2026

Online degrees let busy college students study from anywhere they desire. This can be great for individuals who don't have time to travel to school for on-campus courses. These programs can also be flexible, allowing you to learn during timeframes that match your schedule.

If you live near Chicago and want to take online courses, you can find accredited schools offering online degree options. Some of the best online colleges in Chicago include DePaul University and National Louis University.

Best Online Colleges in Chicago

Chicago is home to nationally recognized online programs. Keep reading to learn about the best online colleges in Chicago.

1. DePaul University

DePaul University offers online bachelor's degrees that have earned top national rankings from the U.S. News and World Report. Some include psychology and business administration. Other great online bachelor's programs include:

• applied behavioral sciences, BA
• healthcare administration, BA
• computer science, BS
• nonprofit management, BA
• information technology, BS

Online graduate programs are also available at DePaul. Students can earn master's degrees in nursing, professional communication, software engineering, or public administration.

2. National Louis University

National Louis University offers several campuses, including its main campus in downtown Chicago. Students can choose from great online programs like the following:

• nursing, RN-BSN
• infant-toddler studies, BA
• criminology and criminal justice, BA
• elementary education, BA
• computer science and information systems, BS

Master's programs are available in organizational leadership (MSOL), early childhood administration, and secondary education. Students can also find doctoral degrees in higher education leadership, community psychology, and counselor education and supervision.

3. University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) offers 100% online degrees and certificates in various areas of study. Online bachelor's degree completion programs include:

• BBA
• health information management, BS
• nursing, RN-BSN

Online master's degrees are available in engineering, public administration, comparative effectiveness research, and health information management. UIC also offers a Doctor of Public Health in leadership.

4. Roosevelt University

At Roosevelt University, students can choose from four online undergraduate degree options. The following online bachelor's programs are available:

• health science administration, BA
• interdisciplinary studies, BA
• criminal justice, BA
• psychology, BA

Students interested in health informatics, accounting forensics, training and development, and business administration can pursue online master's degrees.

5. Chicago State University

Chicago State University offers online learning opportunities for select programs. Graduate students can pursue the following degrees:

• physical education, MSEd
• library and information science, MS
• technology and performance improvement studies, MS

Graduate Programs in Education (GPED) can also take select courses for the principal prep, curriculum and instruction, and special education programs. To become an online learner, you must be able to log into your course at least two times per week and actively participate.

Other Online Degree Programs

If you don't see the online degree programs you're looking for at Chicago colleges, there are many other accredited online colleges and universities throughout the U.S. Explore these opportunities for online education from schools in Illinois and other parts of the country.

University of Illinois Springfield

The University of Illinois Springfield offers dozens of online undergraduate degrees for students interested in business, communication, education, and more. Programs include:

• applied business analytics, BS
• economics, BBA
• education, secondary mathematics, BA
• communication, BA
• political science, BA

Online graduate degrees are also available. Students can earn master's degrees in cybersecurity management, data analytics, management of information systems, and healthcare informatics.

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers two types of online programs. Semester-based programs award credits based on class time. In competency-based programs, students progress through their studies by passing tests, papers, and other projects. Bachelor's options include:

• art history (semester-based)
• diagnostic imaging (competency-based)
• general business (semester-based)
• health sciences (competency-based)
• sociology (semester-based)

Semester-based master's programs are available in social work, healthcare administration, and business administration.

University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers more than 100 online programs for students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Four-year degree programs include:

• sociology, BA
• economics, BS
• health science, BHS
• nursing, BSN
• veterinary technology, BS

Master's degrees are available in agroforestry, finance, health communication, and media management. The university offers doctoral degrees in architectural studies, educational leadership, and agricultural education.

Colorado State University

Distance learning opportunities at Colorado State University include undergraduate and graduate online programs. Students can pursue four-year degrees in:

• agricultural business, BS
• computer science, BS
• human development and family studies, BS
• anthropology, BA
• communication studies, BA

Online horticulture and human health, public policy administration, and aerospace engineering programs are available to master's degree seekers. Enrollees can choose from online doctoral degrees in systems engineering, music therapy, and higher education leadership.

University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina (USC) offers online programs for students with 45 or more college credits interested in bachelor's degree completion programs. Options include:

• finance, BSBA
• criminal justice, BS
• health informatics, BA
• organizational leadership, BA
• public health, BS/BA

Students attending USC Palmetto College with less than 45 college credits who want a short-term credential can pursue an online associate degree. Associate of Science and Associate of Arts online enrollment options are available.

How We Rank Schools

We evaluate online colleges based on factors that help students succeed—academic quality, affordability, and access to flexible programs. Each college featured here offers accredited online degrees designed for working adults and distance learners.

• Accreditation: All colleges are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), confirming their programs meet national standards of academic excellence.
• Location: These schools are located in or near Chicago, allowing local students to access both online and on-campus resources as needed.
• Affordability: The featured colleges provide affordable tuition rates and financial aid options, including scholarships and grants for eligible students.
• Student outcomes: Graduates often pursue careers in business, healthcare, technology, and education, supported by internship opportunities and alumni connections across Chicago.

How Much Does College Cost in Chicago?

The cost of attending college in Chicago depends on the type of institution and program level. Public universities typically charge lower tuition rates for in-state students, while private colleges may have higher costs but offer generous financial aid packages.

Undergraduate tuition at public schools generally ranges from about $9,000 to $12,000 per year for Illinois residents. Private universities in Chicago may cost between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, though most students reduce expenses through scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.

Are There Online Colleges in Chicago?

Yes, several accredited colleges in Chicago offer fully online degree programs. DePaul University and National Louis University, for example, provide a variety of online options at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Students seeking additional flexibility can also explore programs from nearby institutions like the University of Illinois Chicago. These online colleges make it possible to earn a respected degree while maintaining work and family commitments.

FAQs About Online Degree Programs in Chicago

Online degree programs in Chicago and nationwide let you earn your degree from the comfort of your home. Read these frequently asked questions to learn more about online colleges offering these degrees.

Is There Financial Aid for Online College?

Many colleges offer the same financial aid options to online and in-person learners. Students typically must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to receive federal assistance. Other requirements include:

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
• Be accepted and currently active in an eligible degree program.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Enroll at least half-time.

Some schools might have stipulations for online learners receiving financial aid. For instance, National Louis University requires online students to meet attendance and coursework participation requirements.

Why Should I Choose an Online College in Illinois?

Choosing an online college in Illinois comes with several perks. You don't have to worry about traveling to campus to attend classes. Depending on the structure of your online program, you might attend classes on a set schedule or enjoy the flexibility of asynchronous learning with no set class times.

If you're an out-of-state student attending a school like the University of Illinois Springfield, you could enjoy reduced tuition rates as an online learner. At this university, online students pay the same E-Tuition whether residing in-state or out-of-state.

Will My Online Degree Be Taken Seriously?

Yes, many employers take online degrees seriously. Research shows most employers believe that online degrees are credible as long as they come from brick-and-mortar institutions that provide traditional and online programs.

If you want to earn an online degree, look for schools that maintain accreditation and have a good academic reputation. Applying to schools with higher acceptance rates can improve your chances of gaining admission.

Earn Your Online College Degree Today

Take the next step toward earning your online degree by exploring the degree programs listed on Learn.org. Contact one of these colleges today to learn how you can begin your journey toward the career of your dreams.