Best Accredited Online Colleges in Illinois
Universities and colleges in Illinois are committed to transforming online education. In 2022, more than half of Illinois college students enrolled in online classes, with 23.5% in fully online programs, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
When it comes to online colleges in Illinois, it’s critically important to choose an accredited institution. Our ranking covers the state’s top online colleges.
What Colleges Are Accredited in Illinois?
Learners choosing from Illinois’s online colleges and schools should ensure that each prospective institution holds accreditation. The Higher Learning Commission primarily accredits Illinois schools. Institutional accreditation demonstrates that the entire school meets specific academic and professional standards, ensuring employers and graduate schools will recognize your degree as legitimate.
Institutional Accreditation
The institutional accreditation process involves a third-party organization providing thorough review of a school’s faculty, curriculum, and student outcomes. Attending an accredited school is key to receive federal financial aid, transfer credits, and qualify for certain certifications.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Many industries feature specialized accrediting agencies, which evaluate programs and departments. For example, business programs may receive accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, while teaching programs often hold accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Some roles may require candidates to have earned degrees from accredited programs.
Accredited Online Colleges in Illinois
Moody Bible Institute
Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Enrollees who plan to study online can pursue a variety of excellent remote programs from Moody Bible Institute. Enrolling 1,265 online learners, the school delivers nine distance programs, each of which meets the highest quality. Students from all walks of life will find the college’s flexible remote learning programs an attractive, accessible option.
The virtual classroom environment provides opportunities for enrollees to develop lasting connections and receive individual assistance. Many employers accept internships as professional experience, which can make candidates more competitive for positions. Institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, help students succeed in their online program. Learners can access resume assistance and mock interviews to ensure they put their best foot forward when approaching employers after graduation.
Educational expenses can vary based on the program. Admissions counselors assist applicants prior to enrollment and can offer detailed cost information. The federal government assists eligible enrollees through scholarships, grants, and low-interest student loans.
- In-State$11,200
- Out-of-state$11,200
- In-State$8,010
- Out-of-state$8,010
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled3,009
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Springfield
Springfield, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners can take advantage of University of Illinois at Springfield's premier educational offerings. Offering 32 online programs to 3,006 distance students, the public institution educates individuals located across the country. Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of subjects and learn at their own pace, right from the comfort of home.
Many online courses feature opportunities to participate in discussions and develop professional connections with classmates. Learners can develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, such as research collaborations with peers. Students can consult departmental advisors to ensure they are on track to meet their academic goals.
Along with third-party scholarships, degree-seekers can apply for institutional funding to make earning a degree more affordable. To understand their financial aid options, enrollees can contact the institution's financial aid office. Of the school's enrollees, 96% receive financial aid.
- In-State$9,520
- Out-of-state$15,948
- In-State$8,270
- Out-of-state$15,240
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled4,275
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Regardless of their professional aspirations, enrollees can receive a high-quality education through University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's online programs. Of the school's academic programs, 33 are available in an online format. Flexible scheduling and enrollment options allow online students to earn their degree faster than many on-campus learners.
Options including email, chat, and videoconferencing allow enrollees to communicate with peers and instructors. Degree-seekers can collaborate on original research projects and pursue experiential learning opportunities such as internships. Institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, encourage academic and professional success among online students. To explore employment options, learners can attend job fairs organized by the school.
Some classes require additional fees. Before enrolling, applicants should consider the overall cost of earning a degree. Applicants can receive detailed information from an admissions counselor. Enrollees who need additional funding can pursue federal student loans, which typically offer better terms than private loans.
- In-State$14,188
- Out-of-state$33,127
- In-State$14,997
- Out-of-state$28,404
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled51,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Elmhurst College
Elmhurst, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners searching for a high-quality education can consider Elmhurst College. Busy students with personal or professional responsibilities often pursue one of the private institution's 10 online programs. Online learning eliminates the need to live near campus, allowing individuals to study from anywhere.
Remote enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community. By conducting original research while earning their degree, participants can enhance their resume and abilities. Learners often benefit from career services such as mock interviews, job boards, and resume assistance.
The institution delivers funding to eligible applicants, reducing the overall cost of earning a degree. Students can consult financial aid officers for information about institutional and outside funding options. The college reports that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
- In-State$37,454
- Out-of-state$37,454
- In-State$31,667
- Out-of-state$31,667
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled3,453
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
Aurora University
Aurora, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online enrollees can participate in forum discussions and group projects. Hands-on experiences such as internships and research projects help participants gain practical skills. Academic advisors help learners choose courses that align with their professional goals, customizing the curriculum to their needs.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal scholarships, grants, and loans. The institution's financial aid office provides information about scholarship and fellowship eligibility requirements to prospective students. Financial aid helps 100% of the school's enrollees cover their educational costs.
- In-State$24,800
- Out-of-state$24,800
- In-State$12,600
- Out-of-state$12,600
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled6,246
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
University of St. Francis
Joliet, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of St. Francis offers online classes that provide the same high-quality academic experience as its on-campus courses. In addition to in-person programs at its Joliet campus, the private school's academic options include 24 online programs. Online learners can take advantage of institutional resources and a supportive online learning community to succeed academically.
Online enrollees can connect with fellow colleagues, faculty members, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Curricula feature general education coursework and advanced classes to help learners gain transferable and field-specific skills. Before registering for classes, students can consult with academic advisors to identify course options aligning with their goals. Many enrollees pursue internships to gain professional experience, which can make them more competitive for positions after graduation.
To reduce the financial burden of earning a degree, applicants should explore their funding options and contact the financial aid office. In addition to federal financial aid, students can apply to private scholarship programs.
- In-State$34,000
- Out-of-state$34,000
- In-State$13,464
- Out-of-state$13,464
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate46%
- Students Enrolled3,776
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Remote enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community. Participants can collaborate with peers and instructors while conducting original research. Learners can benefit from online advising sessions and career services, such as mock interviews.
The institution delivers funding to eligible applicants, reducing the overall cost of earning a degree. Students can consult financial aid officers for information about institutional and outside funding options. The school reports that 98% of enrollees receive financial aid of some kind, which can help them fund their degree.
- In-State$40,551
- Out-of-state$40,551
- In-State$19,584
- Out-of-state$19,584
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled22,064
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students can pursue Lewis University's premiere academic programs in on-campus and online formats. Delivering 25 online programs in various fields, the school educates 2,706 online enrollees, in addition to those studying on campus in Romeoville. Busy learners who need flexible scheduling options can choose asynchronous online programs to complete coursework around other obligations.
Distance learners can participate in discussions and receive assistance from professors through the virtual learning platform. While earning their degree, many learners pursue practical learning opportunities to qualify for positions that require professional experience. Career counselors help enrollees identify the best professional path for them and prepare to find and secure jobs after graduation. Mock interviews allow students to practice their interpersonal skills and improve their chance of landing a job after graduation.
Financial aid counselors help applicants understand their funding options and more easily afford higher education. In addition to institutional funding, enrollees can pursue private scholarships and fellowships to pay for school. Of all students, 100% receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$33,270
- Out-of-state$33,270
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled6,359
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The college’s online learning community is next to none. Participants learn alongside colleagues in a virtual classroom environment. Some students complete original research in collaboration with professors, contributing to their field and gaining practical experience. Online learners can access institutional resources such as academic advising. Professional resources include mock interviews and resume assistance.
Students with financial need often qualify for federal funding. Learners can also apply for merit-based scholarships and fellowships from private organizations. The institution's statistics indicate that 88% of enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$8,627
- Out-of-state$8,627
- In-State$7,962
- Out-of-state$7,962
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled7,624
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Olivet Nazarene University offers online programs of premier quality. Located in Bourbonnais, the school boasts a robust online learning community, supporting 2,505 remote enrollees across 21 programs. Many online programs feature enrollment and scheduling flexibility, making higher education more accessible for busy learners.
The institution's online learning environment helps students make professional connections and receive academic support. To enhance their resume and gain practical skills, learners can pursue internships in their field. Career counselors connect enrollees with resources such as job boards and resume assistance. Mock interviews help students prepare to secure positions in their field after graduation.
Applicants who need help understanding various funding options can receive help from the institution's dedicated financial aid counselors. Enrollees who demonstrate financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal financial aid. Of the school's students, 100% receive financial aid of some type.
- In-State$36,080
- Out-of-state$36,080
- In-State$13,420
- Out-of-state$13,420
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled4,317
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Chicago
River Forest, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Many online courses feature opportunities to participate in discussions and develop professional connections with classmates. Participants can collaborate with peers and instructors while conducting original research. Learners often benefit from career services such as mock interviews, job boards, and resume assistance.
Degree-seekers with financial need should submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal funding, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Students can contact a financial aid officer for information about eligibility requirements for institutional scholarships and fellowships. At the school, 100% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.
- In-State$31,926
- Out-of-state$31,926
- In-State$8,910
- Out-of-state$8,910
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled6,205
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Eastern Illinois University offers high-quality online academic programs for enrollees studying various fields. Learners based in any location can earn their degree through one of the school's 33 online programs. The flexibility of remote programs allow many students to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree.
Distance learners can pursue individual assistance by connecting with professors through email and videoconferencing. Degree-seekers who complete internships or research projects can leverage their experience when pursuing jobs after graduation. Career services prepare students to obtain a job in their field after graduation.
Students can access career services for help choosing the best professional path. To explore employment options, learners can attend job fairs organized by the school.
Program costs vary based on the student's field. Admissions counselors can provide detailed cost information and help applicants understand the amount they should budget for their education. Scholarship and grant programs help enrollees reduce out-of-pocket expenses and student debt.
- In-State$8,875
- Out-of-state$11,045
- In-State$7,356
- Out-of-state$17,654
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate53%
- Students Enrolled7,806
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Lincoln Christian University
Lincoln, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online learners at Lincoln Christian University participate in high-quality programs that provide important academic preparation. The private institution provides flexible enrollment options for its 289 online students. While completing their studies, online learners can live anywhere in the world.
Online enrollees often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. Through academic opportunities such as research projects, internships, and independent studies, participants can customize the program to their goals. Learners often benefit from career services such as mock interviews, job boards, and resume assistance.
Many degree-seekers pursue external funding from sources such as nonprofit organizations and professional associations to cover the cost of their degree. Financial aid officers provide information about options students can use to fund their education, such as scholarships and fellowships. Financial aid reduces the overall cost of earning a degree for 97% of the school's enrollees.
- In-State$13,590
- Out-of-state$13,590
- In-State$8,154
- Out-of-state$8,154
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled672
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Illinois Institute of Technology's online classes provide the same high-quality academic experience as its on-campus courses. In addition to delivering on-campus programs from its campus in Chicago, the private school offers 15 online programs. While enrolled, the institution's 1,019 online learners can access a supportive learning community and institutional resources.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can communicate with peers and instructors through means such as email and videoconferencing. Along with completing field-specific classes, learners take general education courses to gain broad, transferable knowledge. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can explore course electives and other academic opportunities to complement their career path. Enrollees can also collaborate with faculty members on research projects and independently pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their studies.
In addition to tuition, applicants should budget for fees and educational expenses, about which the financial aid office can provide information. In addition to grants and scholarships, students can consider work-study programs to fund their education.
- In-State$47,299
- Out-of-state$47,299
- In-State$29,487
- Out-of-state$29,487
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled6,515
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, online students can access programming of equivalent quality to in-person academic options. In addition to on-campus programs in Edwardsville, the school delivers 10 online programs. The flexibility of online programs can benefit learners with personal and professional responsibilities.
The institution's virtual learning platform provides opportunities for students to communicate with instructors and classmates. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, help learners bolster their resume and prepare for the workforce. Enrollees also benefit from access to numerous institutional resources, receiving academic and career guidance throughout the duration of their studies. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
Exploring various funding options with the help of financial aid counselors can help applicants reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. Enrollees can apply for both institutional funding and private scholarships. Of all students, 93% receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$8,345
- Out-of-state$8,345
- In-State$7,034
- Out-of-state$7,034
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled13,061
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Dominican University
River Forest, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Dominican University's online classes provide the same high-quality academic experience as its on-campus courses. A leader in distance learning, the private school supports seven remote programs from its main campus in River Forest. The institution enrolls 1,635 online learners who complete rigorous coursework to earn their degree.
In the virtual classroom environment, enrollees can request individual assistance from instructors. In addition to completing general education requirements, learners take advanced courses in their field. Students discuss their plans with academic advisors to select electives that match their goals and interests. Many enrollees pursue internships to gain professional experience, which can make them more competitive for positions after graduation.
The financial aid office can provide information about funding options to help applicants reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Students can apply for scholarships based on academic merit or personal history.
- In-State$33,950
- Out-of-state$33,950
- In-State$20,400
- Out-of-state$20,400
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled3,029
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Bradley University
Peoria, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Many students choose Bradley University because of its high-quality online programs. Degree-seekers can pursue in-person programs in Peoria or enroll in one of the private school's nine online options. Online learners can take advantage of virtual career counseling and tutoring to make the most of their educational experience.
The online learning platform allows enrollees to communicate with peers and instructors, receiving assistance and developing professional connections. Along with completing field-specific classes, learners take general education courses to gain broad, transferable knowledge. Academic advisors assist students in selecting electives based on their individual goals and interests. To be more competitive for professional roles, enrollees can conduct original research and complete internships while earning their degree.
In preparing for degree costs, applicants can speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Students can apply for need-based and merit-based awards.
- In-State$34,200
- Out-of-state$34,200
- In-State$16,380
- Out-of-state$16,380
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled5,929
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Greenville University
Greenville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Enrollees across fields can consider online academic options from Greenville University. Learners can earn a degree through the school's nine online programs without relocating or commuting to campus. Flexible scheduling and enrollment options allow online enrollees to earn their degree faster than many on-campus learners.
Online degree-seekers who take opportunities to connect with peers may leverage their network to access job opportunities after graduation. To impress prospective employers, students often complete internships and original research during their online program. Career services prepare students to obtain a job in their field after graduation.
Learners can access career services for help choosing the best professional path. Career resources include job fairs, career workshops, and resume assistance, which help students prepare to secure a position in their field.
Program costs vary based on the student's field. Admissions counselors can provide details about program fees and the overall cost of earning a degree. Enrollees often pursue institutional funding and scholarships from third-party organizations.
- In-State$27,580
- Out-of-state$27,580
- In-State$8,082
- Out-of-state$8,082
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate56%
- Students Enrolled1,092
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners who need scheduling flexibility can consider Loyola University Chicago's online programs. Students based anywhere in the country can enroll in the school's seven online programs. The institution enrolls 2,521 online degree-seekers.
Distance learners receive opportunities to collaborate with classmates. While earning their degree, participants can use virtual communication tools to network with classmates. Online students can pursue internships at facilities near their home. Online learners also benefit from numerous institutional resources, providing support throughout the duration of their program. Enrollees can participate in mock interviews to prepare for the job application process.
By submitting the FAFSA, students can determine whether they qualify for federal funding. Learners may qualify for many types of funding, including grants, scholarships, and fellowships. To fund their education, 99% of the institution's enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$44,105
- Out-of-state$44,105
- In-State$18,594
- Out-of-state$18,594
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled17,159
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Among McKendree University's academic offerings are excellent online programs that allow students to earn their degree remotely. In addition to in-person programs at its Lebanon campus, the private school's academic options include 22 online programs. The college prepares its 1,067 online distance learners for the workforce through rigorous coursework, a supportive learning community, and institutional resources.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can communicate with peers and instructors through means such as email and videoconferencing. While each program features unique requirements, learners across fields take general education and advanced classes. Academic advisors help students create and follow a plan to graduate on time. Options for gaining professional experience while enrolled include internships and research projects.
The financial aid office can help applicants understand funding options and minimize student debt. In addition to institutional funding, students may receive awards from third-party organizations or the federal government.
- In-State$30,540
- Out-of-state$30,540
- In-State$9,522
- Out-of-state$9,522
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled2,292
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Most accredited schools and programs feature their accreditation status on their website. Ensure that the school or program holds accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Both ED and CHEA feature searchable databases of recognized agencies and accredited schools.
The Impact of Accreditation When Transferring Credits
Accreditation affects transfer credits, saving you time and money on your degree. Many colleges only award transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. You can maximize the value of your transfer credits by attending an accredited institution — these programs may require you to retake credits completed at schools without accreditation.
Accreditation Criteria for Licensing
In many fields, including healthcare, social work, and engineering, you’ll need to graduate from an accredited program to earn a professional license. Generally, majors that prepare graduates for careers with licensing requirements require programmatic accreditation if you plan to work as a nurse, counselor, teacher, or allied health professional research program accreditation.
Choosing the Right Online College in Illinois
How can you choose the right college to earn your degree online in Illinois? Here are some factors to consider when evaluating online programs.
1. Check Accreditation Status
As a first step, make sure to check the accreditation status of any prospective online college in Illinois. By only applying to accredited schools, you’ll avoid wasting time on unaccredited programs that will keep you from reaching your educational goals.
2. Program Cost
Find a college that matches your budget by researching the total cost of the program. If you live in Illinois, a public college will likely offer the most affordable path to an online degree.
3. Flexibility of Schedule
Online programs use several different formats, including live class sessions and recorded lectures. Consider how much flexibility you need to find a program that fits your schedule.
4. Support Services
Online learners can benefit from support services like academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring. When comparing programs, check each college’s available support services.
Online College Resources for Illinois Students
As an Illinois college student, you can benefit from scholarship and grant opportunities to maximize your online education.
Illinois Student Assistance Commission
The Illinois Student Assistance Commission provides information on Illinois scholarships and grants for college students, including opportunities for teachers, nurses, and other majors. Use these resources to find scholarship programs for Illinois’ online colleges.Illinois College2Career
Start planning your transition from college to the workforce with the IL College 2 Career tool. Offered by Illinois state departments, the tool connects students with information on graduate career outcomes from Illinois colleges.Illinois Community Colleges Online
Save money on your degree by taking general education requirements through the Illinois Community Colleges Online Consortium. Thanks to affordable community college tuition rates, you can meet degree requirements with transfer credits to make college more affordable.Financial Aid Worksheet
After applying for financial aid, you can compare offers from different online colleges in Illinois to find the most affordable option by using the state’s Financial Aid Worksheet. The site also provides several other tools and resources for Illinois college students.