Colleges in Illinois

Founded in 1870, Loyola is one of the largest and most well-known Catholic universities in the United States. Loyola brought its famed teaching method to the world wide web in 1998 with the creation of its first fully online degree. Today, students can select from seven unique, web-based undergraduate programs in high demand fields like applied psychology and information technology. The school also offers 14 online master’s degrees and and two online doctoral programs. Course materials and lectures are available around the clock through the Sakai learning platform, although some classes may require students to participate in real time virtual sessions. Through the university’s interlibrary loan program, distance learners around the country can access books and digital resources from Loyola libraries. Online students can also seek virtual academic assistance from the Center for Tutoring and Academic Excellence and the university’s writing center.

Since 1944, Lincoln has maintained its commitment to providing comprehensive academic programs grounded in Christian principles. Unlike many online schools in Illinois, the university offers several specialized degrees in religion and ministry, and boasts many pastors, missionaries, and nonprofit founders among its alumni. Other fully online undergraduate offerings include psychology and business administration. Each 120 credit hour program takes around 10 semesters to complete, with full time students taking four courses each semester. Tuition is the same for online and traditional degrees. Payment plans are available to qualifying students, and the university offers several merit and service based scholarships. In addition to transcripts and standardized test scores, applicants must submit an essay and one Christian character reference provided by an individual in a position of Christian leadership.

For those who are still undecided on a major, Eastern Illinois University offers an online bachelor’s degree in general studies, as well as five other online undergraduate degrees. Students majoring in general studies may receive credit for work experience and on-the-job training. All of EIU’s accredited programs offer flexible schedules, although duration and format differ slightly according to major. All online courses are identical in content to their on campus counterparts. Students enrolled in online programs pay in-state tuition rates, and EIU offers several scholarships exclusively for adult, returning, and transfer students. Additional financial aid is available to those pursuing a BA in general studies with child care education option.

Small classes, affordable tuition, and a military friendly atmosphere are all characteristics of McKendree University. Founded in Lebanon in 1828, McKendree has expanded its degree offerings to include four online undergraduate programs in psychology, business, criminal justice, computer science, and nursing. Business majors can select from six additional learning tracks, including accounting and sport management. The school also offers five online master’s degrees and one online doctoral degree in nursing. Most courses are offered in eight week sessions, with the majority of students enrolling in two classes every session. Assignments for all courses are due every week and may be accessed through Blackboard. Technical and academic help is available around the clock through the university website, and distance learners are welcome to take advantage of the school’s career and job search resources.

One of the most well known traditional and online colleges in Illinois, the University of Illinois at Chicago’s web-based degrees provide the same quality and academic rigor as their traditional counterparts. Offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in everything from math to political science, U of I Online makes its comprehensive programs accessible to busy individuals through a combination of real-time learning sessions and asynchronous activities. While program lengths vary between majors, most degrees are 50-60 credit hours long. A 30-credit-hour RN to BSN completion program is also available, and can be completed in as little as 16 months with no residency requirement. Tuition and financial aid opportunities vary according to major and the campus where each program is located. Special options may be available for students transferring from select Illinois community colleges.

From an intensive orientation program to the help of expert faculty members, distance learners enrolled at Benedictine University have the same strong support network as on-campus students. Located in Lisle, Benedictine is committed to offering innovative, world-class programs, and its online degrees are no exception. Presented through the Engage learning platform, its accelerated undergraduate degrees in management and organizational leadership can be completed in only two years. Both programs provide a solid foundation in business principles and management theory, in addition to concepts and skills that will help students succeed in the workforce. Benedictine also offers online graduate degrees and dual degrees, including an MBA/MPH. Veterans and active duty military personnel are encouraged to apply for both online degrees. Admissions counselors are available online and by phone to assist applicants with any questions they may have regarding financial aid, benefits, and transcripts.

With only 5,500 students enrolled at its three campuses, this private university offers all the benefits of a small school, even to its online students. Low student-to-faculty ratios and individual attention mean that those earning a bachelor’s degree online will receive the highest quality education. Designed with adult professionals in mind, Aurora’s web-based undergraduate degree offerings include unique options such as gender studies and nonprofit leadership studies. While most of the programs require a certain number of transfer credits, many offer course credit for work experience, military service, or other training in areas relevant to the student’s major. Tuition for adult degree completion programs is considerably less than that of traditional undergraduate degrees, and online students can take advantage of Aurora’s interest-free monthly payment plan option.

Located in Macomb, Western Illinois University was founded in 1902 as a training college for prospective teachers. Over the past century, its standard of excellence and unique academic programs have set the university apart among both traditional and online schools in Illinois. In addition to an undergraduate general studies degree and nursing completion program, WIU has recently introduced a comprehensive, fully online BA in anthropology. While course format and pacing differs according to program, all are exceptional among online degrees for their flexibility. General studies majors have no time limit for degree completion and can add select online minors if they choose. Course requirements for the RN to BSN program are determined on a case-by-case basis, removing the need to repeat courses students may have completed in prior programs. WIU also offers online master’s degrees in business administration, instructional design, or education. Current firefighters may also complete the online national fire academy curriculum.

Best known for hosting the annual World Leaders Forum at its Elgin campus, this Christian university has been visited by figures such as Tony Blair and Condoleezza Rice. Judson prides itself in campus wide commitment to sustainability, evangelical values, and academic quality, and its online education programs are an extension of that pledge. Each of four available undergraduate degrees and three master’s degrees are intended to prepare students for careers in psychology, ministry, and business. All are presented in a cohort format and can be completed in 45-50 credit hours. Students may choose additional concentrations within each major. Graduation requirements vary according to program and may include a portfolio or capstone course. Business majors have the option of completing an internship at a local business or organization.

Northern Illinois University’s DeKalb campus offers 11 renowned online programs, including business, performing arts, and political science. NIU understands the challenges faced by nontraditional students and offers online degree-seekers extra support every step of the way. Upon acceptance, all students are assigned an admissions counselor for one-on-one help with course selection, and specialists are available to assist those struggling to balance their studies with professional and family life. Program lengths, graduation requirements, and tuition and fees differ considerably according to degree. Certain majors may include additional academic or financial aid opportunities such as scholarships, internships, and mentorship programs.

If you’re passionate about social justice, you’ll feel right at home at Roosevelt University. Since 1945, the university’s mission has been to provide exceptional education to all students regardless of their race, religion, or economic background. This commitment to equality and accessibility in higher education led to the creation of RUOnline in 2001. The program’s six online undergraduate degrees are designed to prepare students for high-demand professional positions. Roosevelt also offers seven online master’s degrees, including conflict and mediation, tourism management, and teaching. Students explore topics such as criminal justice and psychology through a social justice-based perspective. Courses are presented either asynchronously or synchronously at the instructor’s discretion. All online courses follow a traditional semester schedule. Academic advisors are available at the start of each semester to help distance learners create a course plan that best fits their life circumstances and career goals.

Located in southern Chicago, this public university is known for having the safest campus in Illinois and northwest Indiana. Even if you never set foot on the GSU campus, you can still take advantage of its top notch academics through one of its fully online bachelor’s degree programs. The school currently offers online bachelor’s degrees in interdisciplinary studies, business and applied science, and nursing (RN to BSN). Three online master’s degrees are also available in business and addiction studies. All online programs offer a great deal of scheduling flexibility. Many students are able to translate on-the-job training, military service, and life experience into college credits. Individuals who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree are not eligible to apply for the interdisciplinary studies program, but may be accepted into others. Transfer students, military personnel, and veterans are encouraged to apply and may receive additional financial aid benefits.

With strong ties to the Methodist church and the surrounding community of Jacksonville, MacMurray has long been considered one of the most affordable and accessible institutions in the region. With the addition of three web-based undergraduate degrees, students can experience the academic rigor of a MacMurray program from anywhere in Illinois. Stressing the development of high level writing skills, each curriculum is designed to prepare students for the workforce upon graduation. Many internships and work-study opportunities are available for criminal justice and business majors. RN to BSN students are not required to complete a practicum. Year-round sessions and asynchronous courses allow students to maintain a school-life balance as they study at their own pace. Nursing students may complete the program in just 10 months.

Founded 125 years ago by pioneer educator Elizabeth Harrison, National Louis University boasts six campuses worldwide, including the main campus in Chicago and an international campus in Nowy Sacz, Poland. In a continuing effort to change lives through higher education, the university has expanded its undergraduate offerings to include six online bachelor’s degrees and six master’s degrees. Differing from their on campus counterparts only in delivery method, these programs offer cutting-edge instruction in high demand fields such as healthcare leadership and management information systems. Course structure, admission requirements, and concentration options vary from program to program, and some students may complete their general education coursework by submitting an experiential learning portfolio. Enrollment specialists are available by phone or email to assist with any questions potential students may have regarding credit transfer policies or academic planning.

Waubonsee Community College delivers high-quality and affordable programs on campuses in Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano. Learners take advantage of the school's flexible learning options with night classes and eLearning options that facilitate flexible learning. Waubonsee offers several fully online associate degrees, including the 60-credit associate of arts for learners planning to major in fields like criminal justice, mass communication, psychology, and social work.

Waubonsee's 60-credit associate of science degree caters to learners planning to pursue science majors such as biology, engineering, geosciences, and computer and information sciences. Those seeking to enter the workforce after college can earn the associate of applied science degree through options in business management and human resources management. Whether students study online or on campus, they benefit from comprehensive services and being part of a dynamic student population at one of the top online community colleges in Illinois.

Serving the seventh fastest growing county in Illinois, McHenry County College enrolls more than 6,500 students in credit-granting and non-credit programs. MCC operates several satellite locations in addition to the school's main campus in Crystal Lake. MCC lists several online options among its 35 associate degrees.

The school's associate of arts and associate of science provide learners with the general education core required to transfer into a baccalaureate degree. One of the top online community colleges in Illinois, MCC offers associate of applied science degrees that prepare learners for immediate employment. The schools AAS options include accounting, business management, criminal justice, and networking security. Those seeking to earn an online certificate may elect to take accounting, bookkeeping, entrepreneurship, and tax practitioner. MCC admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

Moraine Valley Community College serves Chicago's southwestern suburbs and enrolls 32,000 students. The school's approximately 150 programs include eLearning options. In addition to a comprehensive range of online courses, the school offers two associate of applied science degrees that prepare them for the workplace.

The 62-credit AAS in business administration offers four majors: accounting, management, marketing, and business information management. The 62-credit AAS in criminal justice offers the option for students to concurrently earn an associate of arts. The AAS degree plan includes study of criminology, criminal law, and juvenile justice. Both AAS degrees require internship components in which students receive hands-on experience. MV, one of the top online community colleges in Illinois, admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

The College of DuPage serves as Illinois' second largest undergraduate college. The school enrolls 28,000 students on a 273-acre Glen Ellyn campus. COD offers 82 degrees, including several eLearning options. COD Online administers seven associate degrees and 26 certificates that students take fully online. One of the top online community colleges in Illinois, COD offers an associate of arts that transfers as the general education core of a baccalaureate degree.

Students seeking flexibility in their curriculum choose the 64-credit associate of general studies, which offers several general education and career and technical education courses. COD's associate of applied science degrees provide specialized training that students take to the workplace in fields like accounting, administrative support, and office technology information. COD admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

William Rainey Harper College, one of the nation's largest community colleges, serves more than 40,000 students in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. The fully online associate of applied science in business administration trains career-ready professionals versed in one of several specializations, including eMarketing, insurance, entrepreneurship, and financial management.

One of the top online community colleges in Illinois, students may earn online certificates in early childhood education, database management, and computer information systems. Students pursuing careers in accounting complete the CPA preparation certificate in three to four semesters of online study. The school admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

Rend Lake College consists of a main campus in Ina and satellites in Mt. Vernon and Pinckneyville. The school also administers online and hybrid courses. RLC offers one hybrid degree for distance learners -- the associate of science in business. Students complete the degree mostly online with a few courses requiring some face-to-face contact.

Online learners find the resources they need for academic success through the Learning Resource Center. They access books, periodicals, and other resources without coming to campus. Lake College, one of the top online community colleges in Illinois, also offers tutoring in writing, math, and communications from the Learning Enhancement Center situated on campus. Lake College admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

Lincoln Land Community College enrolls 15,000 students in central Illinois. They learn on a main campus in Springfield and at centers in Beardstown, Jacksonville, Taylorville, and Litchfield. The school's top associate degrees include business administration and criminal justice, both which can be completed from a distance.

LLCC remains one of the best online community colleges in Illinois, in part because of its agreements with other schools. The associate of arts in business administration caters to learners planning to transfer and serves as a 2+2 degree with Benedictine University, Greenville College, and the University of Illinois Springfield. The AA in criminal justice acts as another 2+2 option that works in conjunction with Kaplan University, Blackburn College, and MacMurray College. Learners seeking to earn a degree that prepares them for the workplace choose among several options: the associate of applied science in criminal justice, computer systems, and office professional.

Situated on a 155-acre site in Decatur, Richland Community College serves residents in central Illinois and beyond with several programs. The school extends access to associate degrees through centers in Fairview Plaza, Clinton, and a virtual learning platform.

Students complete the first two years of a four-year degree with the associate of arts. The transfer degree offers concentration areas in fields like accounting, psychology, and physical education. Learners interested in pursuing a science major when they transfer to a senior college choose Richland's associate of science. Both online degrees require 60 credits with a minimum 15-credit residency. One of the top online community colleges in Illinois, Richland offers a certificate in office technology -- medical transcription that gives students the entry-level skills needed for this fast growing career. Richland admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

Illinois Central College serves as one of the top online community colleges in Illinois with rigorous associate degrees, occupational certificates, and continuing education. Those unable to attend classes on the East Peoria campus complete degrees through the school's virtual arm. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college begin their education at ICC with an associate of arts or associate of science. The degrees fulfill the general education requirements of a bachelor's degree in any number of disciplines.

The associate of general education offers flexibility through 37 credits in electives. An associate of applied science in web systems gives learners the knowledge and training necessary for entry-level positions. ICC also offers online certificates that students complete in a matter of weeks. Options include supply chain management, small business management, and web developer apprentice. ICC admits students in the fall, spring, and summer.

Kaskaskia College is a two-year institution located in Centralia, Illinois. The school offers 50 degrees and 102 certificates that include transfer and career training options. Students unable to attend classes on campus may select one of three fully online degrees. Those seeking to complete general education can transfer to a four-year college after completing the associate of arts.

One of the top online community colleges in Illinois, KC prepares learners for law enforcement careers with a unique two-year correctional officer/youth officer associate degree. The associate of general arts provides a flexible option that gives students leeway in their academic pursuits. Students complete certificates online in accounting, entrepreneurship, small business accounting, and supervisory management. Students enroll in the programs in the fall, spring, and summer.