Rankings / By State

Best Data Science Colleges in Illinois

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 36 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$59,790

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

59%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$17,890

Avg. Net Price

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Data science is one of the fastest-growing fields in today's job market, with a projected 31% increase in demand for data scientists over the next decade. As students and families explore their options for higher education, it's crucial to consider institutions that not only offer solid programs but also pave the way for successful careers. In Illinois, several colleges stand out for their outcomes in this discipline.

The best data science colleges in Illinois are distinguished by key factors such as earnings potential, graduation rates, debt levels, and overall program concentration. These metrics help illustrate how well graduates are positioned for success after earning their degrees. The schools listed below have been evaluated on these outcomes, providing valuable insight into the return on investment each institution offers.

For example, the University of Chicago leads the list with impressive average earnings of $91,885 and a graduation rate of 95%, but it comes with a higher net price of $14,860. In contrast, the University of Illinois Chicago offers lower average earnings of $68,740 and a graduation rate of 61%, but a more affordable net price of $10,974. These differences highlight the trade-offs students may face when choosing the right program for their future goals.

Key Findings

University of Chicago graduates earn an average of $91,885, making it the highest in this ranking.

Graduation rates vary significantly; Northwestern University boasts a 96% graduation rate compared to the 61% at the University of Illinois Chicago.

The Illinois Institute of Technology has a net price of $18,425, which is higher than the $10,974 at the University of Illinois Chicago.

Average earnings for data science graduates across all schools in this ranking are $59,790.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 36

Avg. earnings at 10yr $59,790

Avg. graduation rate 59%

Avg. net price $17,890

Avg. median debt $20,950

How We Ranked

Data Science 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

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL

Graduation74%

Earnings$82,592

Net Price$18,425

View full profile →

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL

Graduation96%

Earnings$89,363

Net Price$29,167

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, the University of Chicago emphasizes not just academic excellence but also student support to help you succeed. The school is located in a vibrant city known for its cultural and intellectual richness, making it an ideal place for students who thrive in engaging environments and seek to collaborate with peers who are equally ambitious.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

At the Illinois Institute of Technology, 74% of students graduate, and the focus on technology and engineering disciplines attracts students with a passion for innovation. Located in Chicago, it's ideal for those seeking hands-on learning and connections within the tech industry, offering unique opportunities to engage with real-world challenges.

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University is a place where 96% of students graduate, a testament to its supportive community and strong academic programs. Situated in Evanston, just outside of Chicago, the campus offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban excitement, perfect for students who want a balanced college experience that includes both focus and fun.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL · 4,015 students · Private nonprofit

Lewis University, located in Romeoville, caters to around 4,000 students and emphasizes a supportive learning environment. Known for its strong liberal arts foundation combined with professional programs, it prepares students for a wide range of careers and encourages a well-rounded education.

71% accepted 65% graduate $66,099 earnings

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has a diverse student body of about 8,750. With a solid graduation rate of 56%, this public university offers a welcoming atmosphere for students looking to advance their education while still enjoying a vibrant campus life.

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

Illinois State University, situated in Normal, is home to over 19,000 students and is celebrated for its strong programs in education, business, and the arts. The vibrant campus fosters a sense of belonging, and students can engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, enhancing their college experience beyond the classroom.

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

Bradley University

Peoria, IL · 3,574 students · Private nonprofit

Bradley University, located in Peoria, Illinois, has a more intimate setting with a student population of around 3,574. With a graduation rate of 74%, the support and resources available help many students successfully complete their degrees and transition into the workforce.

77% accepted 74% graduate $66,852 earnings

Bradley's full profile

DePaul University

Chicago, IL · 14,090 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant campus in the heart of Chicago, DePaul University has a diverse student body of over 14,000. The university's 69% graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success, and graduates see median earnings of $68,751 after ten years, making it a compelling option for those seeking a solid return on their education.

76% accepted 69% graduate $68,751 earnings

DePaul's full profile

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · 36,258 students · Public

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is home to over 36,000 students, boasting a graduation rate of 85%. The campus is lively and filled with opportunities for collaboration across various fields, making it a great fit for students eager to engage in a larger community while pursuing their academic goals.

42% accepted 85% graduate $81,054 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Dominican University

River Forest, IL · 2,561 students · Private nonprofit

Dominican University, situated in River Forest, Illinois, is an inviting private nonprofit institution with a graduation rate of 59%. With a focus on nurturing individual student success, the university has a welcoming acceptance rate of 90%, which may ease the path for many prospective students.

90% accepted 59% graduate $60,327 earnings

Dominican's full profile

#11

Knox College

Galesburg, IL · 1,127 students · Private nonprofit

Knox College, located in Galesburg, IL, may appeal to students seeking a personalized education experience. With a graduation rate of 68%, the college emphasizes individualized attention, which is supported by a student-to-faculty ratio that encourages close mentorship and support. Graduates earn a median salary of $54,820 ten years after leaving, which speaks to the value of the education they receive.

71% accepted 68% graduate $54,820 earnings

Northeastern Illinois University

Chicago, IL · 3,982 students · Public

Northeastern Illinois University offers a unique educational experience with a strong focus on accessibility, highlighted by its 75% acceptance rate. Despite a graduation rate of only 18%, students can still find opportunities to succeed, especially those driven to make the most of their education in a supportive public university setting.

75% accepted 18% graduate $52,234 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#13

Northern Illinois University

Dekalb, IL · 11,301 students · Public

Located in Dekalb, Northern Illinois University serves over 11,000 students and offers a well-rounded education with a graduation rate of 49%. Students can expect median earnings of $57,808 after ten years, reflecting the university's focus on equipping graduates with the skills needed in the workforce, particularly in areas like business and education.

70% accepted 49% graduate $57,808 earnings

Northern's full profile

#14

University of Illinois Chicago

Chicago, IL · 22,170 students · Public

With nearly 22,200 students, the University of Illinois Chicago is a vibrant urban campus that immerses students in the heart of one of America’s largest cities. Chicago’s diverse environment enriches student life, and the university's strong emphasis on research and community engagement makes it an appealing choice for those seeking both academic and real-world experience.

77% accepted 61% graduate $68,740 earnings

University's full profile

#15

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL · 2,263 students · Public

The University of Illinois Springfield offers a close-knit educational experience with a student body of just over 2,200. This smaller institution emphasizes personalized learning and has a strong focus on public affairs, making it ideal for students interested in civic engagement and public service careers.

86% accepted 57% graduate $57,103 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Lake Forest College

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

Lake Forest College, nestled in the charming town of Lake Forest, IL, attracts students with its impressive median earnings of $61,825 ten years post-graduation. The college prides itself on a 74% graduation rate, and its 57% acceptance rate suggests that it welcomes a diverse group of students eager to learn and grow.

57% accepted 74% graduate $61,825 earnings

North Central College

Naperville, IL · 2,428 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $60,123 a decade after graduation, North Central College in Naperville, IL, presents a solid return on investment for students. The college's commitment to fostering student success is reflected in its 68% graduation rate and a welcoming acceptance rate of 77%, making it accessible to a broad range of aspiring students.

77% accepted 68% graduate $60,123 earnings

Illinois Wesleyan University

Bloomington, IL · 1,582 students · Private nonprofit

Illinois Wesleyan University is a small, private institution in Bloomington that supports around 1,582 students. With a high graduation rate of 78%, this school places a strong focus on academic excellence and a personalized education experience. The intimate campus setting fosters close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing overall learning outcomes.

39% accepted 78% graduate $70,871 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#19

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst, IL · 3,006 students · Private nonprofit

Elmhurst University, located in Elmhurst, enrolls around 3,006 students and showcases a graduation rate of 68%. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes a well-rounded education with a balance of academic rigor and community involvement. Students here often thrive in an environment that encourages personal growth alongside professional preparation.

74% accepted 68% graduate $61,462 earnings

Elmhurst's full profile

#20

Saint Xavier University

Chicago, IL · 3,096 students · Private nonprofit

With a diverse student body of over 3,000 and a strong emphasis on community engagement, Saint Xavier University in Chicago may be an appealing choice for students looking for a supportive atmosphere. The school has a graduation rate of 58%, indicating that many students are successfully completing their degrees and entering the workforce prepared.

84% accepted 58% graduate $58,656 earnings

Carl Sandburg College

Galesburg, IL · 1,051 students · Public

Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, Illinois, is an inviting choice for students looking for a close-knit academic environment. With a solid graduation rate of 45%, the college fosters a community where students can thrive and receive the support they need to succeed in their studies.

45% graduate $35,274 earnings

Western Illinois University

Macomb, IL · 4,410 students · Public

Western Illinois University, nestled in Macomb, enrolls about 4,410 students and boasts a supportive campus community. With a graduation rate of 45%, the university emphasizes preparing students for real-world challenges, and its programs are designed to equip learners with essential skills for the job market.

71% accepted 45% graduate $54,163 earnings

Western's full profile

#23

Judson University

Elgin, IL · 708 students · Private nonprofit

Judson University, nestled in Elgin, Illinois, is home to about 700 students who value a personalized education experience. With a graduation rate of 56%, many students find their niche here, supported by a faith-based community that encourages growth and development during college years.

48% accepted 56% graduate $56,313 earnings

Judson's full profile

#24

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais, IL · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

Olivet Nazarene University, located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, has a vibrant community of around 2,600 students, which fosters a strong sense of belonging. A higher graduation rate of 61% indicates that many students are completing their degrees and moving on successfully into their careers.

56% accepted 61% graduate $53,213 earnings

Olivet's full profile

#25

Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL · 2,849 students · Private nonprofit

At Roosevelt University in Chicago, students are immersed in a vibrant urban environment that provides numerous professional opportunities. The school embraces a diverse student body, with a 97% acceptance rate and just under 3,000 students, fostering an inclusive culture that values different perspectives. Graduates earn a median of $48,712 after ten years, reflecting the university's commitment to equipping students for the job market.

97% accepted 38% graduate $48,712 earnings

Roosevelt's full profile

#26

McKendree University

Lebanon, IL · 1,752 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lebanon, Illinois, McKendree University has a close-knit community with around 1,750 students, promoting strong connections among peers and faculty. The university's graduation rate of 57% suggests that students are finding their paths to success, even if it’s not without challenges along the way.

72% accepted 57% graduate $58,572 earnings

McKendree's full profile

#27

Rockford University

Rockford, IL · 972 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 93%, Rockford University opens its doors to a diverse range of students. The school serves just under 1,000 students, creating an intimate atmosphere that encourages personal connection and attention from faculty. Notably, graduates see a median earning of $54,794 a decade after leaving, suggesting that the education here translates into solid job prospects.

93% accepted 43% graduate $54,794 earnings

Rockford's full profile

#28

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Carbondale, IL · 8,494 students · Public

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale stands as a robust option for students, especially with a graduation rate of 59%. Located in Carbondale, this university has a sizable student body of nearly 8,500, providing diverse opportunities for engagement and learning both inside and outside the classroom.

87% accepted 59% graduate $53,390 earnings

Southern's full profile

#29

Augustana College

Rock Island, IL · 2,490 students · Private nonprofit

Augustana College, with a close-knit community of around 2,490 students, prides itself on a strong graduation rate of 76%. The college fosters a personalized learning environment, leading to median earnings of $62,971 ten years after graduation, which showcases the value of a liberal arts education in preparing students for the job market.

63% accepted 76% graduate $62,971 earnings

Augustana's full profile

#30

College of DuPage

Glen Ellyn, IL · 16,114 students · Public

College of DuPage is home to more than 16,000 students, making it one of the largest community colleges in Illinois. This institution is known for its strong support services, which can be a big advantage for students navigating their academic journeys, particularly for those who may need extra assistance as they transition to college life.

25% graduate $46,909 earnings

College's full profile

#31

Wheaton College

Wheaton, IL · 2,121 students · Private nonprofit

Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL, is notable for its strong 86% graduation rate, reflecting its dedication to student support and success. With median earnings of $63,756 a decade after graduation, the school positions itself as a great choice for those aiming for a solid financial future and substantial personal growth.

87% accepted 86% graduate $63,756 earnings

Wheaton's full profile

#32

Governors State University

University Park, IL · 2,556 students · Public

At Governors State University, located in University Park, Illinois, the focus is on accessibility and support for students. With a significant 54% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university is committed to helping those from lower-income backgrounds pursue their education and career goals.

48% accepted 21% graduate $58,169 earnings

Governors's full profile

#33

City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College

Chicago, IL · 4,372 students · Public

With a student body of over 4,300, City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College serves as a valuable stepping stone for many in the Chicago area. The college's commitment to accessibility is evident, with 26% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its focus on supporting students from diverse backgrounds as they pursue higher education.

32% graduate $41,625 earnings

National Louis University

Chicago, IL · 4,406 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Chicago, National Louis University caters to a diverse student body of over 4,400. With a 95% acceptance rate, it welcomes many students looking for flexible learning options, including adult learners and those seeking online courses. While its graduation rate sits at 33%, the supportive environment aims to help students navigate their educational journey.

95% accepted 33% graduate $45,799 earnings

National's full profile

#35

East-West University

Chicago, IL · 468 students · Private nonprofit

East-West University, with a small student population of around 468, offers a tight-knit community focused on personalized learning. However, its graduation rate is notably low at 20%, which may raise questions about student support and completion. The median earnings for graduates sit at just $29,963 ten years after enrollment, indicating that students should consider their long-term financial outcomes carefully.

20% graduate $29,963 earnings

East-West's full profile

#36

Principia College

Elsah, IL · 339 students · Private nonprofit

Principia's full profile

In examining the data, a notable trend emerges when comparing the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. While the University of Chicago has a higher average earning potential of $91,885, it also comes with a more significant financial commitment, with a net price of $14,860 and a graduation rate of 95%. In contrast, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, while slightly lower in earnings at $81,054, offers a more affordable net price of $14,355 and a graduation rate of 85%. This suggests that students may need to weigh potential debt against expected earnings when making their decisions.

As you consider these options, reflect on your personal priorities. Are you willing to invest more upfront for potentially higher earnings later, or is a more affordable education with decent outcomes your priority? Think about factors like location, campus culture, and how well each program aligns with your career aspirations. Gathering information on school visits or speaking with current students can also provide clarity on which institution feels like the right fit.

Ultimately, the path from college to a secure, stable life is shaped by the choices we make today. With data science being a pivotal career area, selecting a school that balances cost and outcome can significantly impact your future. Choosing the right program can lead to better job prospects and financial stability, making it a decision worth careful consideration.

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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