10 Best Universities in Illinois According to Specialization

UniRank has published its 2023 University Ranking, which evaluates the best universities in Illinois based on the following criteria:

• Being chartered.
• Being licensed, or
• Being accredited by the appropriate US higher education-related organization; offering at least three-year bachelor’s degrees or postgraduate master’s or doctoral degrees; and delivering courses predominantly in a traditional, non-distance education format.

Best Universities in Illinois

These university are ranked in the general category

Northwestern University

Established in 1855, Northwestern University is a private research university in Evanston, Illinois. Starting with only two academic staff and 10 male students, the university began admitting women in 1869 and has since grown to include 12 separate schools and colleges.

Northwestern is recognized for its research strengths in diverse fields such as neuroscience, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and drug development. Its main campus is in Evanston, 10 miles north of Chicago, with a smaller campus in Chicago and a satellite campus in Doha, Qatar, since 2008.

The university boasts an impressive list of notable alumni, including Nobel Prize winners Saul Bellow and George Stigler, Friends star David Schwimmer, authors Gillian Flynn and George R. R. Martin, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

Additionally, Northwestern has produced several faculty members who went on to win Nobel Prizes, including four economists and a chemist, and contributed to the first African American Nobel Peace Prize winner, Ralph Bunche, a political scientist and researcher at Northwestern.

• Northwestern University is a private research university in Evanston, Illinois that started in 1855 with just two staff members and 10 male students and now comprises 12 schools and colleges.
• The university is known for its research strengths in neuroscience, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and drug development and has produced several Nobel Prize winners among its alumni and faculty members.

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University of Illinois at Chicago

The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research university that traces its origins back to the Chicago College of Pharmacy, established in 1859. While it started as a healthcare-focused institution, UIC now encompasses 15 colleges and offers many programs across liberal arts, social work, engineering, sciences, and health.

Located in the heart of Chicago at the intersection of the Greektown and Little Italy neighborhoods, UIC has a diverse student body, many of whom are first-generation college attendees. The university provides various extracurricular activities, including sports facilities such as gyms, courts for volleyball and racquetball, climbing walls, and extensive outdoor fields for soccer and baseball games.

Additionally, there is a separate outdoor facility for tennis and basketball courts, swimming pools, saunas, and a wellness center.

• The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research university founded as the Chicago College of Pharmacy in 1859. It has since expanded to offer various programs across 15 colleges.
• UIC’s campus is located in Chicago’s Greektown and Little Italy neighborhoods and has a diverse student body, many first-generation college attendees. The university offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports facilities, such as gyms, courts, and fields, as well as wellness facilities.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Computer Science

These universities are ranked based on the study of computer science in Illinois.

University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign, Illinois’ flagship university, has a strong computer science research and practice background. With computer science undergraduates boasting an average ACT score of 33.7, 97% of graduates find employment or pursue advanced degrees with an impressive starting salary of $99,741.

At just over $17,000 for annual in-state tuition, it’s a great deal for a computer science program ranked 3rd in the nation by CSRankings. Although the admissions process is selective, this university is the top choice for computer science in Illinois, and the affordable tuition is the cherry on top.

• University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign is Illinois’ flagship university with a strong computer science research and practice background.
• With an average starting salary of $99,741 and annual in-state tuition of just over $17,000, the computer science program is ranked 3rd in the nation by CSRankings, making it an affordable and excellent choice for students.

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Northwestern University

Northwestern University, a prestigious private research university located in Evanston, was ranked in the top 10 by U.S. News in its list of best colleges. The university offers a personalized educational experience, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1 for its 8,000 undergraduate students.

While their computer science department is rapidly expanding, it is already ranked 30th in the nation. Despite a hefty price tag of over $56,000, Northwestern provides need-based grants rather than loans to address financial barriers for students. With 95% of graduates finding employment, freelancing, or continuing their education within six months of graduation, Northwestern is an excellent choice for aspiring computer science majors.

• Northwestern University is a prestigious private research university with a top 10 ranking by U.S. News and a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio for its 8,000 undergraduates.
• Despite a high cost, Northwestern offers need-based grants and boasts a 95% success rate of graduates finding employment, freelancing, or continuing their education within six months of graduation, making it an excellent choice for computer science majors.

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Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Tech, Chicago’s only technical university, may come in 5th in the overall rankings, but it is still an exceptional institution. It’s a powerhouse in the Chicago region for occupational earnings power, ranks 36th for the best value in the nation by U.S. News, and is recognized as a top 25 STEM college by Forbes. The university has won numerous awards, which are too many to list here, which is a testament to its excellence.

With a student body of under 3,000 undergraduates, Illinois Tech offers an intimate campus experience akin to a private university. The university has been offering computer science courses since 1959 and has expanded to offer various computer science programs. These include a brand-new Bachelor of Science program in artificial intelligence.

The downside, however, is the steep tuition and fees, which exceed $50,000 annually. Nonetheless, if you can afford it, Illinois Tech is an excellent university for computer science education.

• Illinois Tech is a top-ranking technical university in Chicago with exceptional occupational earnings power and value for money.
• With under 3,000 undergraduates, the university offers an intimate campus experience and a wide range of computer science programs, including a new program in artificial intelligence. However, tuition and fees are expensive, exceeding $50,000 annually.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Medicine

University of Illinois College of Medicine

Founded in 1882, the University of Illinois College of Medicine is a public medical school ranked 48th for primary care and 50th for research in the US. It also holds the 25th spot in the NIH funding ranking.

The college offers a range of joint programs, including M.D. and Ph.D., M.D. and MPH, and M.D. and MBA, along with M.D. and Ph.D. degree programs. Specialized programs in rural, global, and urban innovation, clinical executive, and innovation in rural medicine are also available.

With campuses in Chicago, Rockford, Peoria, and Urbana, applicants can indicate their top two choices, with the Urbana campus now closed to new students due to the opening of the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, a new engineering-based medical school. The admissions rate of 13% is higher than other medical schools.

• The University of Illinois, College of Medicine, is a public medical school established in 1882 and ranked 48th for primary care and 50th for research in the US. It also ranks 25th in NIH funding.
• The college offers a range of joint programs and specialized programs in various medical fields and has four campuses in Chicago, Rockford, Peoria, and Urbana. The admissions rate is 13%, and the Urbana campus is now closed to new students due to the opening of a new engineering-based medical school.

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Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

The Feinberg School of Medicine, founded in 1859, is one of the top medical schools in the US, ranked 19th for research and 35th for primary care. It ranks 15th for NIH funding and is affiliated with leading teaching hospitals, such as the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, the best rehabilitation hospital in the country.

Despite its long history, the Feinberg School of Medicine continues to innovate, as demonstrated by its revamped M.D. curriculum in 2012, which now features three phases focused on science in medicine, clinical medicine, health and society, and professional development.

Research is also a significant focus, with over 4,500 clinical trials and studies conducted between 2017 and 2018. Additionally, a new research building is under construction to expand the existing research centers.

• Feinberg School of Medicine is a top-ranked medical school in the US, with 19th rank for research and 35th for primary care.
• The school prioritizes innovation, as evidenced by its revamped M.D. curriculum and a significant focus on research, with over 4,500 clinical trials and studies conducted between 2017 and 2018.

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 Rush Medical College

Founded in 1837, Rush Medical College is among the best universities in Illinois, ranking globally in the top 100. It ranks 70th for research and 71st for primary care.

The MD degree program features a system-based curriculum organized by organ systems. Students gain early clinical experience through the Physicians Program with mentorship from physicians starting in their first year. Training centers include the Rush University Medical Center and the John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County.

Admissions are highly competitive, with only 138 students admitted out of 10,754 applications received in 2016. The school does not accept transfer students and requires applicants to be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status.

• The Rush Medical College, founded in 1837, ranks in the top 100 globally and is a top medical school in Illinois.
• The MD program features a system-based curriculum and early clinical experience, and admissions are highly competitive, with only 138 students admitted out of 10,754 applicants in 2016.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Business

Bradley University

Located in Peoria, Illinois, Bradley University is a private institution that offers over 185 academic programs and over 240 student organizations to its undergraduate students. Its high-quality programs feature global and experiential learning opportunities, equipping graduates to excel in a complex world.

The university combines professional preparation, liberal arts and sciences, and co-curricular experiences to empower students for immediate and sustained success in their personal and professional pursuits. Additionally, the university values the generation, application, and interpretation of knowledge.

• Bradley University is a private institution in Peoria, Illinois, with over 185 academic programs and 240 student organizations.
• The university provides high-quality programs that incorporate global and experiential learning opportunities and values professional preparation, liberal arts and sciences, co-curricular experiences, and the generation, application, and interpretation of knowledge.

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DePaul University

DePaul University offers a wide range of academic programs with over 300 options for undergraduate students. The university is staffed by world-class faculty experts in their respective fields, committed to providing students with an exceptional learning experience.

While faculty conduct groundbreaking research, they prioritize their students’ success above all else. Small class sizes allow maximum engagement, and students are motivated to achieve their full potential and pursue their aspirations.

• DePaul University provides undergraduate students with a diverse range of over 300 academic programs and world-class faculty members who prioritize their students’ success.
• With small class sizes, DePaul students receive individual attention from faculty members who challenge them to achieve their full potential and pursue their goals.

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Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University is a private, four-year college that offers an outstanding education at an excellent value, consistently ranked as one of the top colleges and best values in the Midwest. Students receive individualized attention in small classes, working closely with faculty who prioritize teaching and mentoring in the liberal arts and sciences. Located just 13 miles west of the Loop, the university is in the heart of the Chicago metropolitan area.

• Elmhurst University is a private, four-year college located in the heart of the Chicago metropolitan area, offering an exceptional education at great value.
• The university’s small class sizes provide personalized attention from faculty who prioritize teaching and mentoring in the liberal arts and sciences.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Teaching

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is renowned for its education degree programs and is ranked #44 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide, making it an exceptional university overall. With a large student population, this public university is situated in the small city of Champaign.

In the most recent data year, approximately 567 education students received their degrees from UIUC, with early-career salaries averaging $47,555.

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Northwestern University

In Evanston, Northwestern University is a prestigious private, not-for-profit university that every education degree-seeking student should consider. Northwestern is an outstanding university with a Best Colleges rank of #5 out of 2,241.

In the most recent data year, around 92 education students received their degree from Northwestern, with early-career salaries averaging approximately $51,813.

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University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is a highly-regarded institution for those pursuing a degree in education, located in the bustling city of Chicago. This private, not-for-profit university boasts a large student population and is ranked #7 out of 2,241 schools nationwide, making it a top university overall.

In the most recent data year, approximately 46 students graduated from UChicago with a degree in education. These graduates earn an average early-career salary of $3,457 more than the standard graduate in this field.

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Best Universities in Illinois for International Relations

Wheaton College, Illinois

Wheaton College, Illinois, is a small, private, not-for-profit institution that offers an exceptional education to highly motivated students. In 2020-2021, the school ranked #1 in Illinois for highly focused International Relations programs, with 34 students graduating from the major.

With a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1, the college is dedicated to providing individualized attention and support to its undergraduates. Wheaton College boasts an impressive 0.5% undergrad student loan default rate, well below the national rate of 10.1%, and an outstanding 90% freshman retention rate.

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Knox College

If you’re looking for a school prioritizing International Relations, consider Knox College, ranked #4 on our 2023 list for Schools Highly Focused on International Relations Major in Illinois.

This small private, not-for-profit institution in Galesburg awarded 8 International Relations degrees in 2020-2021 and boasted a low undergrad student loan default rate of 2.3% compared to the national average of 10.1%. With a 10 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio, students can expect individualized attention and support.

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University of Chicago

The University of Chicago ranks #6 in this year’s Schools Highly Focused on International Relations Major in Illinois list. This prestigious private, not-for-profit university in Chicago awarded 162 degrees in international relations in the most recent academic year.

With an impressive undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio of 5 to 1, students can expect ample opportunities to engage with their professors one-on-one. The low undergraduate student loan default rate of 1.0% indicates that graduates find it easier to pay off their loans than other institutions, with a national default rate of 10.1%.

Moreover, with a freshman retention rate of 100%, the University of Chicago excels at retaining its undergraduate students.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Psychology

Northwestern University

If you’re interested in pursuing a degree in general psychology, Northwestern University is a top choice. This private, not-for-profit university in Evanston has a large student population and is ranked #5 out of 2,241 schools nationwide.

In the most recent data year, approximately 144 students graduated with a degree in general psychology at Northwestern. Graduates from this program earn an average of $2,568 more than the average income of general psychology majors.

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Illinois Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology is a top choice for students pursuing a degree in general psychology. Situated in the bustling city of Chicago, this moderately-sized private, not-for-profit school has a strong reputation and is ranked #236 out of 2,241 schools nationwide.

In the most recent data year, approximately 28 students graduated from Illinois Tech with a degree in general psychology. These graduates enjoy an impressive earnings boost of $41,447 above the average income of general psychology majors, making Illinois Tech a smart choice for students looking to enhance their future earning potential.

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Illinois State University

Illinois State University, located in the suburban town of Normal, is an excellent choice for students seeking a degree in general psychology. Illinois State is a top-notch university with a Best Colleges rank of #214 out of 2,241 schools nationwide.

In the most recent data year, around 175 students graduated from Illinois State with a degree in general psychology. Graduates of the psychology program at Illinois State University reported an average early career salary of $28,754.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Nursing

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing a nursing degree. It is ranked one of the best universities in Illinois, and it is a private, not-for-profit university located in the bustling city of Chicago. It has a large student population and is highly ranked, coming in at #147 out of 2,241 schools nationwide.

In the most recent data year, approximately 588 nursing students graduated from Loyola Chicago. Those who earned a degree in nursing from this university see a significant boost in earnings after graduation, with an average salary of $19,033 higher than the typical graduate in the field.

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Illinois State University

Illinois State University, situated in the medium-sized suburb of Normal, is an excellent option for students pursuing a degree in nursing. Illinois State is a great university with a large student population and a Best Colleges rank of #214 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide.

In the most recent year for which data is available, about 326 nursing students graduated from Illinois State. Those nursing students who received their degree from this university can expect to earn approximately $8,813 more than the average nursing graduate.

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Rush University

For students pursuing a nursing degree, Rush University is an excellent option. This private, not-for-profit university is located in the large city of Chicago and has a small student population.

In the most recent data year, approximately 388 nursing students graduated from Rush University. Graduates from the nursing program at Rush University earn an average of $16,035 more than the typical nursing graduate shortly after graduation.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Pre-med

Augustana College

Ranked as one of the best universities in Illinois, Augustana College stands out for its exceptional medical school placement rate, with over 50% of its students entering the in-demand medical industry. Students at Augustana benefit from a comprehensive science-based curriculum that equips them with a well-rounded experience before they pursue their medical careers.

Augustana’s strategic partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and care facilities provide students valuable real-world experience. Additionally, fully equipped laboratories dedicated to anatomy, genetics, cell biology, and physiology give undergraduate students a glimpse of what to expect in medical school.

Opportunities for research assistantships enable students to build their experience and portfolios with notable institutions. Premed students can also take advantage of a summer internship program at the prestigious Texas Medical Center in Houston, exclusively offered to Augustana students.

Augustana’s program also emphasizes the importance of studying non-medical-related fields. Exposure to subjects that foster cultural awareness and communication skills can make for more promising and well-rounded medical school candidates.

• Augustana College boasts a medical school placement rate above 50%, thanks to its science-based curriculum and partnerships with local medical institutions.
• Students can gain real-world experience, access fully equipped laboratories, and pursue non-medical fields that foster cultural awareness and communication skills, making them well-rounded and promising candidates for medical school.

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Illinois Wesleyan

Illinois Wesleyan is a top choice for pre-med students, with an impressive acceptance rate of 80%. While pre-med is not a major, the university offers a range of courses catering to various specializations within the medical field.

Students can choose from over nine specialized tracks aligning with their medical career path. The university encourages students to pursue majors that align with their interests, whether or not it is related to healthcare, as this can improve their chances of success.

A key aspect of the program is the opportunity for students to shadow healthcare professionals to gain insight into their preferred focus areas. This may lead to internship opportunities with the institutes they shadowed.

• Illinois Wesleyan has an 80% acceptance rate for pre-med graduates and offers courses for over nine specialized tracks within the medical field.
• Students can shadow healthcare professionals to determine their preferred area of focus, which may lead to internship opportunities.

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University of Illinois

The University of Illinois ranks 4th among the top 20 best pre-med programs nationwide, offering a pre-health major in molecular cell biology. This major provides students the necessary prerequisites for pursuing pre-med and other pre-health-related tracks.

MCB students have access to the Pre-Health and Professional Mentorship Program, connecting them with alumni from the MCB program for guidance and support throughout their academic journey. The program also offers extensive extracurricular opportunities through its vast network, such as internships, job shadowing, and volunteer positions.

With a 4-year pre-med guide, students at the University of Illinois have a clear path to follow as they prepare to apply to medical school.

• The University of Illinois offers a pre-health major in molecular cell biology, preparing students for pre-med and other pre-health-related tracks.
• MCB students benefit from the Pre-Health and Professional Mentorship Program, extensive extracurricular opportunities, and a 4-year pre-med guide.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Education

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign(UIUC)

UIUC is a highly regarded public university in Champaign, known for its exceptional education program. With a sizeable student population, UIUC ranks #44 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide, reflecting its reputation as a top-tier institution.

In the latest data year, 567 students graduated with an education degree from UIUC, with an average early career salary of $47,555 for program graduates.

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University of Chicago

If you’re interested in pursuing a degree in education at one of the best universities in Illinois, the University of Chicago is a top contender. A private, not-for-profit university in Chicago, UChicago boasts a large student population and a special Best Colleges rank of #7 out of 2,241 schools nationwide.

In the most recent data year, around 46 students graduated with an education degree from UChicago. Graduates from the education program at the university earn an average of $3,457 more in their early career salary compared to the industry standard.

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Illinois State University

One of the best universities in Illinois, Illinois State University is an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing an education degree. The public university in the medium-sized suburb of Normal has a large student population and an overall ranking of #214 out of 2,241 colleges nationwide.

In the most recent data year, approximately 956 students graduated with an education degree from Illinois State. These graduates reported an average early career income of $42,536.

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Best Universities in Illinois for Criminal Justice

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Aurora University

Aurora University, one of the best universities in Illinois, located in the suburb of Aurora, is a mid-sized private, not-for-profit university with a Best Colleges rank of #393 out of 2,241 schools nationwide. In the most recent data year, around 74 students graduated from Aurora with a criminal justice and corrections degree. Graduates of this program report an average early career income of $33,959.

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Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University, one of the best universities in Illinois, is a private, not-for-profit institution located in the suburb of Elmhurst, providing an excellent option for students interested in pursuing criminal justice and corrections. With a small student population, Elmhurst is ranked #488 out of 2,241 schools nationwide by Best Colleges.

In the most recent data year, 31 students graduated from Elmhurst with a criminal justice and corrections degree. Graduates from the program report an average early career income of $32,970.

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