Rankings / By State

Best Communications Colleges in Illinois

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 26 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$59,094

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

59%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,207

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right communications program can set the tone for your career in a fast-paced industry. With 25 colleges in Illinois offering communications degrees, students have a range of options to consider. These schools share a commitment to preparing students for the workforce, but outcomes can vary widely.

What stands out among the strong programs is how effectively they equip graduates for success, measured by earnings, graduation rates, and manageable debt. The schools listed here excel not just in providing a degree, but in translating that degree into real-world opportunities. As you look through the rankings, keep an eye on the earnings and graduation rates — they’re key indicators of how these programs can impact your future.

For instance, Northwestern University in Evanston boasts impressive earnings of $89,363, alongside a 96% graduation rate. In contrast, Eastern Illinois University offers a lower earning potential of $51,989 and a graduation rate of only 46%. This stark difference highlights the trade-offs students face as they evaluate their options in communications programs across the state.

Key Findings

Northwestern University graduates earn an average of $89,363 — the highest in the state.

The graduation rate at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is 85%, indicating strong student support.

Eastern Illinois University has the lowest graduation rate at 46%, which may impact future job prospects.

Illinois State University students graduate with an average debt of $20,482, higher than some of its peers.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 26

Avg. earnings at 10yr $59,094

Avg. graduation rate 59%

Avg. net price $19,207

Avg. median debt $22,980

How We Ranked

Communications programs in Illinois ranked by outcomes and program concentration

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL

Graduation96%

Earnings$89,363

Net Price$29,167

View full profile →

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL

Graduation56%

Earnings$56,346

Net Price$14,889

View full profile →

Illinois State University

Normal, IL

Graduation65%

Earnings$62,117

Net Price$19,398

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University is a strong choice for students seeking high academic achievement. Located in Evanston, Illinois, this private nonprofit institution is known for its rigorous programs and vibrant campus life, attracting ambitious students who are eager to excel academically and socially.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, with its generous 98% acceptance rate, welcomes a larger student body of 8,750. The graduation rate of 56% indicates a university focused on student success, and with median earnings of $56,346 a decade after graduation, many students are well-prepared for the workforce. This university is shaping future professionals across various fields, underscoring its role in the region's economic growth.

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

Illinois State University presents a solid option for those who value a welcoming campus and community feel. With a graduation rate of 65% and nearly 19,000 students, it strikes a balance between academic rigor and a supportive environment, ideal for students looking for both educational and social engagement.

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

Eastern Illinois University

Charleston, IL · 4,188 students · Public

With a solid acceptance rate of 65%, Eastern Illinois University in Charleston has a vibrant community of around 4,188 students. Its graduation rate of 46% reflects the challenges some students face, but it also highlights the school's commitment to helping those who enroll find their path. The median earnings of $51,989 at ten years post-graduation show that many alumni are finding success in their careers.

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,989 earnings

Eastern's full profile

Lake Forest College

Lake Forest, IL · 1,813 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $61,825 a decade after graduation, Lake Forest College demonstrates a solid return on investment for its graduates. Its 74% graduation rate reflects a supportive academic environment where students can thrive and achieve their goals.

57% accepted 74% graduate $61,825 earnings

Bradley University

Peoria, IL · 3,574 students · Private nonprofit

Students at Bradley University can expect to earn a median salary of $66,852 ten years after graduation, which is a strong indicator of the school's career preparation. With a graduation rate of 74%, Bradley fosters an environment where students are encouraged to succeed academically and professionally.

77% accepted 74% graduate $66,852 earnings

Bradley's full profile

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · 36,258 students · Public

For students who thrive in a large, engaging environment, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a compelling option. With a student body of over 36,000 and a graduation rate of 85%, it creates an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in diverse extracurricular activities while benefiting from a strong educational foundation.

42% accepted 85% graduate $81,054 earnings

University's full profile

DePaul University

Chicago, IL · 14,090 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Chicago, DePaul University is known for its commitment to experiential learning and urban engagement. With a graduation rate of 69%, the university supports students in achieving their academic goals while preparing them to thrive in a diverse workforce, making it a strong choice for those who want to blend education with real-world experience.

76% accepted 69% graduate $68,751 earnings

DePaul's full profile

North Central College

Naperville, IL · 2,428 students · Private nonprofit

At North Central College, students enjoy a vibrant campus life with a focus on personal development and academic success. The 68% graduation rate indicates that many students find their path and complete their degrees, while median earnings of $60,123 ten years after graduation suggest that they go on to secure solid careers.

77% accepted 68% graduate $60,123 earnings

North Park University

Chicago, IL · 1,818 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong emphasis on community and service, North Park University in Chicago attracts students looking for a supportive environment where faith and learning intersect. The school has a diverse student body, with 44% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in higher education.

69% accepted 57% graduate $59,572 earnings

Northern Illinois University

Dekalb, IL · 11,301 students · Public

Northern Illinois University in Dekalb is an ideal choice for students looking for a large public university atmosphere with a strong focus on career readiness. With over 11,000 students, NIU fosters a vibrant campus life that encourages engagement and personal growth, while also being an affordable option for many families.

70% accepted 49% graduate $57,808 earnings

Northern's full profile

#12

Western Illinois University

Macomb, IL · 4,410 students · Public

Western Illinois University offers a unique opportunity in a public setting, with a diverse student body of 4,410. While the graduation rate of 45% may raise some concerns, those who do graduate can expect median earnings of $54,163 within a decade, which indicates a path to financial stability for many.

71% accepted 45% graduate $54,163 earnings

Western's full profile

#13

Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL · 11,737 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 75%, Loyola University Chicago demonstrates a commitment to student success that many families value. Located in a vibrant city, it offers a unique blend of academic rigor and urban experience, making it an appealing choice for students looking to engage with diverse communities.

82% accepted 75% graduate $71,530 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#14

Monmouth College

Monmouth, IL · 702 students · Private nonprofit

Monmouth College, with a tight-knit campus community of just 702 students, caters well to those who appreciate personalized attention in their learning environment. The acceptance rate of 91% reflects its welcoming nature, suggesting that students from diverse backgrounds can find a home here, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

91% accepted 62% graduate $51,110 earnings

Monmouth's full profile

#15

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL · 820 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights is a close-knit community that emphasizes a holistic approach to education grounded in faith. With a graduation rate of 61%, students here benefit from personalized attention and a supportive environment that nurtures both academic and personal growth, making it an attractive option for those seeking a smaller college experience.

85% accepted 61% graduate $55,700 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#16

Saint Xavier University

Chicago, IL · 3,096 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Xavier University offers a strong sense of community with an acceptance rate of 84% and a graduation rate of 58%. This environment can be especially supportive for students who thrive in smaller classrooms and value close connections with faculty and peers, making it a great choice for those seeking a personal touch in their education.

84% accepted 58% graduate $58,656 earnings

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais, IL · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

With a solid graduation rate of 61%, Olivet Nazarene University emphasizes student success and a supportive environment. Located in Bourbonnais, IL, small class sizes foster meaningful relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the college experience.

56% accepted 61% graduate $53,213 earnings

Olivet's full profile

#18

Northeastern Illinois University

Chicago, IL · 3,982 students · Public

Northeastern Illinois University may attract students looking for an accessible public education, with a 75% acceptance rate and a focus on inclusivity, as reflected by its 56% Pell Grant recipients. However, the low graduation rate of 18% raises questions about the level of support and resources available for students during their studies.

75% accepted 18% graduate $52,234 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#19

Eureka College

Eureka, IL · 522 students · Private nonprofit

Eureka College, although smaller with just 522 students, fosters a close-knit community that encourages personal growth and academic achievement. The 41% graduation rate suggests there’s room for improvement, but the supportive atmosphere may help students find their footing during their college journey.

85% accepted 41% graduate $51,641 earnings

Eureka's full profile

#20

Columbia College Chicago

Chicago, IL · 5,368 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia College Chicago thrives in the vibrant city of Chicago, attracting students passionate about arts and communications. While the graduation rate stands at 50%, the college’s urban setting offers countless opportunities for internships and networking, essential for students in creative fields.

89% accepted 50% graduate $42,195 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#21

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL · 2,263 students · Public

For students seeking a smaller, more intimate setting, the University of Illinois Springfield offers a unique experience. With just over 2,200 students and a graduation rate of 57%, it caters to those who prefer personalized attention from faculty and a close-knit community atmosphere.

86% accepted 57% graduate $57,103 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Wheaton College

Wheaton, IL · 2,121 students · Private nonprofit

Wheaton College in Illinois has a strong academic reputation, reflected in its impressive 86% graduation rate. With a smaller student population of 2,121, this private nonprofit college fosters close-knit connections between students and faculty. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $63,756 a decade after finishing their studies, which speaks to the quality of education and networking opportunities available.

87% accepted 86% graduate $63,756 earnings

Wheaton's full profile

#23

Chicago State University

Chicago, IL · 1,384 students · Public

Chicago State University is situated in the vibrant city of Chicago, providing a diverse environment for learning and growth. With a student body of 1,384, this public university focuses on accessibility and community, evident in its 58% of Pell Grant recipients, which highlights its commitment to supporting students from lower-income backgrounds.

43% accepted 16% graduate $42,778 earnings

Chicago's full profile

#24

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Carbondale, IL · 8,494 students · Public

Located in Carbondale, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale has a welcoming environment for about 8,494 students and a high graduation rate of 59%. With median earnings of $53,390 ten years after graduation, this university prepares its graduates for a variety of careers. The 87% acceptance rate makes it accessible, drawing students from diverse backgrounds looking to achieve their academic dreams.

87% accepted 59% graduate $53,390 earnings

Southern's full profile

#25

Concordia University-Chicago

River Forest, IL · 1,323 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in River Forest, IL, Concordia University-Chicago offers a nurturing environment with a focus on academic and personal development. While the graduation rate is 41%, the community here is known for its commitment to supporting students through their educational journeys.

93% accepted 41% graduate $54,089 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#26

Principia College

Elsah, IL · 339 students · Private nonprofit

Principia's full profile

When comparing programs, it's clear that Northwestern University outshines many others in terms of post-graduation earnings and graduation rates. With graduates making an average of $89,363, the program not only fosters academic success but also translates it into lucrative job opportunities. Meanwhile, Eastern Illinois University, despite its lower tuition, sees earnings of just $51,989 and a concerning graduation rate of 46%. This suggests that while cost is important, the return on investment may vary significantly.

Now that you've seen the data, it's essential to weigh these figures against your personal priorities. Consider what matters most to you: Is it the reputation of the school, the location, or the financial implications of student debt? Think about the educational environment that will help you thrive. A school with a high graduation rate may indicate better support services, while one with lower debt might offer a more manageable financial path.

Ultimately, this data reflects a broader reality: the choices families make today can have lasting implications for the future. Investing in a college education is a commitment, and the right decision can pave a path toward financial stability and career success. Choosing a school that aligns with your goals may be the most significant step toward building a secure future.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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