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Best Value Business/Commerce Colleges in Illinois

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Illinois business programs reveal striking cost variations, with Hebrew Theological College charging just $11,197 compared to DeVry University's $30,878 net price. Northwestern University graduates earn the highest starting salaries in the state, though earnings data wasn't available for all programs. The state's finance sector, anchored by Chicago's major banks and trading firms, creates strong demand for business graduates. Aurora University stands out with $50,105 in median earnings, the highest among schools with available data. Public options like Northeastern Illinois University offer affordable paths at $13,550 net cost while maintaining solid career outcomes in Illinois' manufacturing and healthcare industries.
13
Programs
$11,197 – $30,878
Net Price Range
$44,013
Avg. Program Earnings
57.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

13 Business/Commerce, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,550 $47,260 $12,383 16.8% 62.7%
2 $12,093 $39,969 $36,840 59.0% 84.1%
3 $16,381 $44,747 $20,325 63.9% 70.7%
4 $18,992 $50,105 $28,220 58.3% 81.9%
5 $16,157 $35,060 $12,345 36.9% 92.1%
6 $21,386 $46,087 $12,320 45.7% 91.3%
7 $30,878 $48,225 $17,488 36.9% 43.0%
8 $27,499 $40,647 $54,202 70.4% 59.7%
9 $11,197 $14,700 73.1% 71.4%
10 $29,550 $55,704 82.5% 42.2%
11 $27,143 $65,997 95.9% 7.2%
12 $21,539 $37,940 60.3% 57.8%
13 $20,152 $20,280 41.0% 88.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide range in business program costs across Illinois?

Net prices span from $11,197 at Hebrew Theological College to $30,878 at DeVry University, a difference of nearly $20,000. Private colleges dominate the list, with only Northeastern Illinois University representing public education at $13,550.

How do graduation rates vary among Illinois business programs?

Northwestern University leads with a 95.9% graduation rate, while several schools fall below 50%. Hebrew Theological College achieves 73.1% despite its low cost, showing that affordable programs can still retain students effectively.

Is student debt manageable for Illinois business graduates?

Debt levels range from $15,000 at Northeastern Illinois University to $40,529 at DeVry University. Most programs keep debt below $27,000, which remains reasonable given typical business career earning potential.

Where do Illinois business graduates find the best earning potential?

Aurora University graduates earn $50,105 median income, followed by DeVry at $48,225 and Northeastern Illinois at $47,260. Chicago's finance and corporate headquarters provide strong job markets for business degree holders throughout the region.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.