Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Illinois

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$58,779

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

59%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,772

Avg. Net Price

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Illinois is home to a variety of strong master's programs, each with unique offerings and outcomes. For students considering their next step in higher education, understanding how these programs stack up can help guide their decision-making process. With an average earning potential of $58,690 for graduates, the stakes are high for those preparing to invest in their education.

The data reveals that not all master's programs are created equal. Key factors like graduate earnings, completion rates, and debt levels play a crucial role in distinguishing the strongest programs from the rest. This list showcases schools where graduates are not only completing their degrees but also entering the workforce with a solid earning potential, reflecting their investment in education.

Take, for instance, the University of Chicago, which boasts an impressive earning potential of $91,885 and a graduation rate of 95%. In contrast, the University of Illinois Chicago offers a lower earning potential of $68,740, alongside a graduation rate of just 61%. This comparison highlights the importance of not just choosing a program based on reputation, but also on the tangible outcomes that will affect graduates' futures.

Key Findings

University of Chicago graduates earn $91,885, the highest in Illinois.

Northwestern University has a 96% graduation rate, among the top in the state.

The average graduation rate across these programs is only 58%.

University of Illinois Chicago graduates face a debt of $16,704 with a 61% graduation rate.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $58,779

Avg. graduation rate 59%

Avg. net price $19,772

Avg. median debt $22,865

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Illinois ranked by graduate outcomes

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 →

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL

Graduation96%

Earnings$89,363

Net Price$29,167

View full profile →

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

Graduation85%

Earnings$81,054

Net Price$14,355

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a strikingly low acceptance rate of just 4%, the University of Chicago cultivates a highly selective environment that attracts top-tier students from around the globe. The school's focus on rigorous academics has resulted in an impressive graduation rate of 95%, which speaks to the strong support systems in place for students as they navigate their educational journey.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Evanston, Northwestern University offers a vibrant campus life and a commitment to interdisciplinary learning. With a graduation rate of 96%, students benefit from a supportive community that encourages exploration across various fields of study, fostering both academic and personal growth.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · 36,258 students · Public

As one of the largest public universities in the country, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides a diverse and dynamic educational experience for its 36,258 students. The school's graduation rate of 85% reflects its commitment to academic excellence while offering a wide range of programs that cater to various interests and career paths.

42% accepted 85% graduate $81,054 earnings

University's full profile

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

With a robust acceptance rate of 98%, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville welcomes a diverse student body looking to pursue their academic goals. Even more compelling is the median earnings of $56,346 a decade after graduation, suggesting that graduates are equipped to thrive professionally in their chosen fields.

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Chicago, the Illinois Institute of Technology has a strong focus on technology and engineering. With a graduation rate of 74%, the school prepares students for promising careers, reflected in a median earnings figure of $82,592 at the ten-year mark after graduation.

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, is a large public university that creates a vibrant campus life for its 19,057 students. The graduation rate is 65%, and median earnings reach $62,117 after ten years, suggesting that the school prepares students for success in various fields.

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL · 4,015 students · Private nonprofit

Lewis University, a private nonprofit institution, caters to students seeking a personalized educational experience with a solid graduation rate of 65%. Graduates can expect median earnings of $66,099 after ten years, reflecting the university's commitment to preparing its students for successful careers in various fields.

71% accepted 65% graduate $66,099 earnings

Eastern Illinois University

Charleston, IL · 4,188 students · Public

Eastern Illinois University has a strong sense of community that appeals to many students, evidenced by its acceptance rate of 65%. However, the graduation rate of 46% could be a concern for those wanting to ensure a timely completion of their degree. Median earnings after ten years are $51,989, which can offer a stable foundation for graduates, though they may be lower than some nearby institutions.

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,989 earnings

Eastern's full profile

Northern Illinois University

Dekalb, IL · 11,301 students · Public

Northern Illinois University, located in DeKalb, Illinois, caters to a larger student body of 11,301. Although the graduation rate is lower at 49%, the median earnings for graduates stand at $57,808 a decade after they have completed their studies, suggesting that there are still ample opportunities for career advancement post-graduation.

70% accepted 49% graduate $57,808 earnings

Northern's full profile

#10

North Park University

Chicago, IL · 1,818 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Chicago, North Park University has a vibrant mix of around 1,818 students, fostering a strong sense of community. The university's graduation rate is 57%, and graduates earn a median of $59,572 ten years post-graduation, highlighting the potential for a rewarding career after completing their studies.

69% accepted 57% graduate $59,572 earnings

University of Illinois Chicago

Chicago, IL · 22,170 students · Public

Situated in the heart of Chicago, the University of Illinois Chicago serves a diverse student body of over 22,000. With a graduation rate of 61%, students find themselves in a bustling urban setting that offers numerous opportunities for internships and real-world experiences, making it a unique place to study and grow.

77% accepted 61% graduate $68,740 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Dominican University

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

Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois, is home to around 2,561 students who benefit from a supportive academic environment. With a graduation rate of 59%, students are positioned for success, enjoying median earnings of $60,327 ten years after graduation, which reflects the effectiveness of their degree in the job market.

90% accepted 59% graduate $60,327 earnings

Dominican's full profile

#13

North Central College

Naperville, IL · 2,428 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 68%, North Central College in Naperville is a vibrant community for those seeking a liberal arts education. The school fosters a close-knit environment with just over 2,400 students, allowing for personalized attention and support from faculty and peers alike. Many students find their passion here, and the solid median earnings of $60,123 ten years after graduation reflect that commitment to career readiness.

77% accepted 68% graduate $60,123 earnings

Lake Forest College

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

Lake Forest College, with its scenic campus near the shores of Lake Michigan, offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a friendly atmosphere, highlighted by a 74% graduation rate. The college's size of just under 1,800 students allows for close relationships with professors and a collaborative learning environment. The median earnings of $61,825 for graduates ten years after completing their degree demonstrate the value of the education received here.

57% accepted 74% graduate $61,825 earnings

Western Illinois University

Macomb, IL · 4,410 students · Public

Western Illinois University, located in the town of Macomb, caters to a larger student body of about 4,400 and offers a diverse range of programs. However, the graduation rate is notably lower at 45%, presenting a challenge for many students. Despite this, the median earnings for graduates stand at $54,163 a decade after completion, which indicates potential for economic mobility.

71% accepted 45% graduate $54,163 earnings

Western's full profile

#16

Bradley University

Peoria, IL · 3,574 students · Private nonprofit

At Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, students enjoy a solid graduation rate of 74%. This institution emphasizes experiential learning, giving students opportunities to engage with the community and gain hands-on experience that can set them apart in the job market. With median earnings of $66,852 a decade after graduation, Bradley graduates are well-positioned for financial success.

77% accepted 74% graduate $66,852 earnings

Bradley's full profile

#17

Aurora University

Aurora, IL · 3,974 students · Private nonprofit

Aurora University, located in Aurora, Illinois, serves a diverse student population of nearly 4,000. The school has a graduation rate of 59%, reflecting a mix of strong support systems and challenges that some students face. With median earnings of $58,709 at ten years post-graduation, students can expect a solid return on their investment in education as they enter the workforce.

81% accepted 59% graduate $58,709 earnings

Aurora's full profile

#18

Illinois Wesleyan University

Bloomington, IL · 1,582 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $70,871 ten years after graduation, Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington presents a compelling case for students seeking strong career outcomes. The school's focus on a personalized education, highlighted by a relatively small student body of 1,582, allows for a close-knit community and individualized attention from faculty.

39% accepted 78% graduate $70,871 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#19

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL · 820 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity Christian College, located in Palos Heights, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and a strong focus on community engagement. With 85% of students accepted, this college creates an inclusive environment that fosters personal growth and meaningful connections.

85% accepted 61% graduate $55,700 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#20

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst, IL · 3,006 students · Private nonprofit

Elmhurst University in Elmhurst has a diverse student population of 3,006 and a robust focus on academic success. With a graduation rate of 68%, it's clear the school is dedicated to helping students achieve their educational goals in a supportive environment.

74% accepted 68% graduate $61,462 earnings

Elmhurst's full profile

#21

DePaul University

Chicago, IL · 14,090 students · Private nonprofit

With a large student body of 14,090, DePaul University in Chicago offers diverse programs that attract students from various backgrounds. The university's graduation rate of 69% indicates that many students find a path to success here, particularly in a city known for its vibrant culture and career opportunities.

76% accepted 69% graduate $68,751 earnings

DePaul's full profile

#22

Saint Xavier University

Chicago, IL · 3,096 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Chicago, Saint Xavier University has a vibrant community of around 3,096 students. With a graduation rate of 58%, the university offers a supportive environment for those looking to thrive in their studies and beyond, particularly for its 59% of students who rely on Pell Grants for financial aid.

84% accepted 58% graduate $58,656 earnings

Northeastern Illinois University

Chicago, IL · 3,982 students · Public

Northeastern Illinois University, located in Chicago, attracts a diverse array of students, particularly those seeking a lower-cost option in higher education. However, the graduation rate of just 18% raises questions about the support systems in place for students.

75% accepted 18% graduate $52,234 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#24

University of St Francis

Joliet, IL · 1,223 students · Private nonprofit

In Joliet, Illinois, the University of St Francis serves a close-knit community with a focus on liberal arts and practical education. The graduation rate stands at 66%, and graduates see median earnings of $63,926 within a decade, suggesting that this institution fosters career-ready graduates.

65% accepted 66% graduate $63,926 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Knox College

Galesburg, IL · 1,127 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 68%, Knox College in Galesburg, IL, has a strong commitment to student success. The school’s median earnings of $54,820 ten years after graduation indicate that graduates are well-prepared for the job market, making it a solid option for those who want a robust liberal arts education in a supportive environment.

71% accepted 68% graduate $54,820 earnings

Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL · 11,737 students · Private nonprofit

Loyola University Chicago, with its strong urban setting and a student population of 11,737, emphasizes a commitment to social justice and community engagement. The university's graduation rate of 75% indicates a robust academic environment where students are encouraged to excel and prepare for their future careers.

82% accepted 75% graduate $71,530 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#27

Benedictine University

Lisle, IL · 1,942 students · Private nonprofit

Benedictine University, located in Lisle, IL, has a diverse student population of nearly 2,000, with a notable acceptance rate of 95%. Graduates earn a median income of $63,446 ten years after completing their degree, suggesting that this university equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in their careers, despite a graduation rate of 51% that may raise some eyebrows.

95% accepted 51% graduate $63,446 earnings

Benedictine's full profile

#28

Monmouth College

Monmouth, IL · 702 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of just 702, Monmouth College in Monmouth, IL, fosters a close-knit community. A graduation rate of 62% positions it as a place where students can receive personalized attention, enhancing their college experience and academic success. The median earnings of $51,110 ten years after graduation reflect the school’s focus on preparing students for the workforce.

91% accepted 62% graduate $51,110 earnings

Monmouth's full profile

#29

McKendree University

Lebanon, IL · 1,752 students · Private nonprofit

In the quiet town of Lebanon, Illinois, McKendree University offers a close-knit educational experience with about 1,752 students. Although the graduation rate is 57%, the supportive community can be a great fit for students who thrive in smaller settings and appreciate personalized attention from faculty.

72% accepted 57% graduate $58,572 earnings

McKendree's full profile

#30

Greenville University

Greenville, IL · 955 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 98%, Greenville University in Illinois creates an accessible environment for students looking to pursue their education. It’s a small campus with around 955 students, fostering a close-knit community where individuals can thrive academically and socially.

98% accepted 46% graduate $46,827 earnings

Greenville's full profile

#31

Illinois College

Jacksonville, IL · 930 students · Private nonprofit

Illinois College, located in Jacksonville, IL, offers a balanced educational experience with a graduation rate of 63%. The college emphasizes a liberal arts curriculum that prepares students for a variety of career paths, with median earnings of $52,575 ten years after graduation showcasing the value of its degrees in the job market.

78% accepted 63% graduate $52,575 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#32

University of Illinois Springfield

Springfield, IL · 2,263 students · Public

University of Illinois Springfield offers a unique opportunity to study in a public institution known for its commitment to student success. While the graduation rate is lower at 57%, graduates still achieve median earnings of $57,103 after ten years, indicating that students find pathways to rewarding careers after their time here.

86% accepted 57% graduate $57,103 earnings

University's full profile

#33

Judson University

Elgin, IL · 708 students · Private nonprofit

Judson University in Elgin is a small institution with just 708 students, promoting a unique blend of personal attention and academic support. With a graduation rate of 56%, it’s an environment where students can engage deeply with their studies and faculty, encouraging growth both personally and academically.

48% accepted 56% graduate $56,313 earnings

Judson's full profile

#34

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais, IL · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

Olivet Nazarene University, located in Bourbonnais, offers a rich educational experience with a graduation rate of 61%. With 2,603 students, it balances a vibrant campus life with academic rigor, making it an appealing option for those seeking a faith-based education along with their degree.

56% accepted 61% graduate $53,213 earnings

Olivet's full profile

#35

Millikin University

Decatur, IL · 1,382 students · Private nonprofit

Millikin University in Decatur has a close-knit community of around 1,382 students, where members can connect deeply with one another. The university has a graduation rate of 57%, indicating that a majority of students find their footing and achieve their academic goals, benefiting from a supportive environment.

67% accepted 57% graduate $51,262 earnings

Millikin's full profile

#36

Eureka College

Eureka, IL · 522 students · Private nonprofit

Eureka College, located in Illinois, serves a close-knit community of about 522 students, creating an environment where relationships matter. With an acceptance rate of 85%, it's an accessible option for many, and the college's commitment to undergraduate education is evident in its small class sizes and personalized attention.

85% accepted 41% graduate $51,641 earnings

Eureka's full profile

#37

Rockford University

Rockford, IL · 972 students · Private nonprofit

Rockford University in Illinois combines a rich academic tradition with a focus on experiential learning, serving about 972 students. With a graduation rate of 43% and an acceptance rate of 93%, it welcomes a diverse range of learners, emphasizing personalized education and community engagement.

93% accepted 43% graduate $54,794 earnings

Rockford's full profile

#38

Blackburn College

Carlinville, IL · 471 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Carlinville, Illinois, Blackburn College is home to about 471 students who benefit from a unique work-study program that helps them gain practical experience while earning their degree. This college emphasizes a personalized education, reflected in its 55% graduation rate, which, while modest, indicates a supportive environment for those who seek guidance in their academic journey.

63% accepted 55% graduate $46,802 earnings

Blackburn's full profile

#39

Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL · 2,849 students · Private nonprofit

Roosevelt University in Chicago is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a student body of 2,849 and an acceptance rate of 97%, signaling that it embraces a wide range of backgrounds. The university fosters a vibrant urban experience, although its graduation rate of 38% highlights the need for students to seek out support to thrive in this dynamic setting.

97% accepted 38% graduate $48,712 earnings

Roosevelt's full profile

#40

Quincy University

Quincy, IL · 1,010 students · Private nonprofit

Quincy University, with its charming campus in Illinois, caters to around 1,010 students and prides itself on academic achievement. The university has a graduation rate of 44%, which suggests that it supports students through their educational challenges, making it a nurturing environment for those determined to succeed.

51% accepted 44% graduate $50,369 earnings

Quincy's full profile

#41

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Carbondale, IL · 8,494 students · Public

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale presents a vibrant campus life for its 8,494 students, complemented by a graduation rate of 59%. Graduates can earn a median salary of $53,390 a decade after leaving, which indicates a solid return on their investment in education, though it trails behind some other local options.

87% accepted 59% graduate $53,390 earnings

Southern's full profile

#42

Augustana College

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

In the heart of Rock Island, Augustana College serves a close-knit community of about 2,490 students. With a graduation rate of 76%, many students are finding success and satisfaction in their educational journeys here, leading to median earnings of $62,971 a decade after graduation.

63% accepted 76% graduate $62,971 earnings

Augustana's full profile

#43

Wheaton College

Wheaton, IL · 2,121 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the charming town of Wheaton, Illinois, Wheaton College boasts an impressive 86% graduation rate, reflecting its dedication to student success. This private nonprofit college has a strong sense of community, with around 2,100 students benefiting from engaging programs and opportunities for growth. Graduates earn a median of $63,756 ten years post-graduation, which speaks volumes about the quality of education and preparation they receive here.

87% accepted 86% graduate $63,756 earnings

Wheaton's full profile

#44

Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, IL · 1,510 students · Private nonprofit

Moody Bible Institute, situated in the heart of Chicago, attracts students passionate about faith-based education, with a student body of 1,510 focused on spiritual and personal growth. Notably, the school has a graduation rate of 62%, which reflects its supportive community and dedication to helping students achieve their goals.

83% accepted 62% graduate $45,399 earnings

Columbia College Chicago

Chicago, IL · 5,368 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia College Chicago presents a vibrant urban campus experience with a strong emphasis on creative fields. Home to over 5,000 students, this private nonprofit institution attracts those passionate about arts and media, with 89% of applicants gaining acceptance. The diverse student body is enriched by the 46% of students receiving Pell Grants, showcasing the college's dedication to affordability and inclusivity.

89% accepted 50% graduate $42,195 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#46

Chicago State University

Chicago, IL · 1,384 students · Public

With a student population of just 1,384, Chicago State University fosters a tight-knit community where students can pursue their academic goals in a supportive environment. The university is particularly focused on serving the needs of its Pell Grant recipients, who make up 58% of the student body, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

43% accepted 16% graduate $42,778 earnings

Chicago's full profile

#47

Concordia University-Chicago

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

In River Forest, Illinois, Concordia University-Chicago cultivates a vibrant academic community with a focus on service and leadership. With 1,323 students and a 93% acceptance rate, this school is dedicated to welcoming diverse learners and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels at home.

93% accepted 41% graduate $54,089 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#48

Governors State University

University Park, IL · 2,556 students · Public

Governors State University in University Park, Illinois, provides a unique opportunity for students seeking an affordable education. With a net price of just $12,329 and a 48% acceptance rate, it's a welcoming environment for those looking to start their academic journey. However, the graduation rate is relatively low at 21%, which highlights the need for support and resources for students to thrive.

48% accepted 21% graduate $58,169 earnings

Governors's full profile

#49

National Louis University

Chicago, IL · 4,406 students · Private nonprofit

National Louis University in Chicago, Illinois, might appeal to students looking for a flexible learning environment. With a 95% acceptance rate, this institution is dedicated to inclusivity, though it has a lower graduation rate of 33%. The median earnings of $45,799 after ten years suggest that while the financial return may be lower than some peers, the university emphasizes preparing students for a range of careers.

95% accepted 33% graduate $45,799 earnings

National's full profile

#50

School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 2,805 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 65% graduate $40,151 earnings

School's full profile

When looking closely at the data, a distinct pattern emerges between different schools. For example, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, with a graduation rate of 85%, still falls behind the University of Chicago's 95% despite higher earnings at $81,054. This disparity in completion rates can indicate the level of support and resources available to students, which is a critical factor to consider.

As you sift through these 50 programs, think about what matters most for you personally. Weigh factors like location, the specific field of study, and how well each program aligns with your career goals. Financial implications are also key; consider the balance between debt and potential earnings in your field.

Ultimately, this data sheds light on the broader implications of choosing a master's program. For a family weighing options, it's a decision that shapes not just academic pursuits but also financial stability and career trajectory. Investing in a master's program is a significant commitment, and understanding these outcomes can guide families toward making an informed choice that aligns with their aspirations.

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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