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Best Value Health and Medical Administrative Services Colleges in Illinois

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

Governors State University stands out among Illinois health administration programs with a remarkably low $9,477 net cost, making it nearly four times less expensive than Loyola University Chicago's $35,196. The state's 20 programs show dramatic variation in outcomes, with University of St Francis graduates earning $61,516 annually while Southern Illinois University-Carbondale graduates average just $34,847. Illinois healthcare administration professionals find strong job prospects in Chicago's major medical systems, including Northwestern Medicine and Rush University Medical Center, which together employ thousands of administrative staff. The state's health industry generates over $50 billion annually, creating steady demand for skilled administrators. Public universities like UIC offer competitive value at $12,313 net cost with graduates earning $46,087, while private options range from Methodist College's focused approach to Lewis University's broader business integration. The MAP Grant program helps Illinois residents access these programs affordably.
21
Programs
$9,477 – $35,196
Net Price Range
$44,078
Avg. Program Earnings
50.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Health and Medical Administrative Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $9,477 $37,208 $11,320 19.6% 57.5%
2 $16,284 $61,516 $37,000 64.6% 58.4%
3 $12,313 $46,087 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
4 $11,592 $35,416 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
5 $16,157 $45,696 $12,345 36.9% 92.1%
6 $16,774 $47,260 $36,258 47.4% 93.0%
7 $18,996 $46,999 $16,021 66.3% 86.2%
8 $18,470 $42,143 $13,546 40.0%
9 $16,177 $34,847 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
10 $35,196 $47,595 $51,716 76.9% 79.2%
11 $30,878 $40,089 $17,488 36.9% 43.0%
12 $10,133 $12,754 16.9% 48.5%
13 $14,867 $18,008 75.0% 33.3%
14 $18,370 $37,882 62.6% 74.1%
15 $18,191 $35,325 56.0% 68.0%
16 $20,152 $20,280 41.0% 88.3%
17 $17,945 $37,470 61.1% 77.2%
18 $23,529 $34,290 51.0% 93.1%
19 $14,093 $13,403 45.2% 68.0%
20 $24,929 $18,475 33.7%
21 $29,141 $44,460 70.0% 70.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge earnings gap between Illinois health administration programs?

University of St Francis graduates earn $61,516 compared to Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's $34,847, a difference of nearly $27,000 annually. This reflects program focus, with some emphasizing hospital management while others cover broader healthcare services. Geographic factors also matter, as Chicago-area graduates typically access higher-paying positions in major medical centers. Network connections and internship partnerships with large health systems contribute significantly to salary outcomes.

How do public universities compare to private options for value?

Governors State University delivers strong value at $9,477 net cost, though graduates earn $37,208 annually. UIC provides middle-ground value with $12,313 costs and $46,087 earnings. Private universities like University of St Francis cost $16,284 but produce the highest earners at $61,516. The return on investment varies significantly, with some private programs justifying higher costs through superior career outcomes.

Is graduation rate important for health administration programs in Illinois?

Graduation rates vary dramatically from Chicago State's 16.90% to Methodist College's 75.00%. Loyola University Chicago combines high graduation rates (76.90%) with strong earnings ($47,595), suggesting program rigor and student support matter. University of St Francis achieves 64.60% graduation with top earnings, while Governors State's 19.60% rate raises concerns despite low costs. Programs with graduation rates above 60% typically provide better career preparation and support services.

Does location within Illinois affect program value?

Chicago-area programs generally offer better networking and internship opportunities with major health systems like Advocate Health and CommonSpirit Health. UIC's location provides access to the Illinois Medical District, the largest urban medical complex in the US. However, some downstate programs like Illinois State University in Normal offer competitive outcomes at $18,996 with graduates earning $46,999. Rural programs may cost less but limit initial job market access.

Where do Illinois health administration graduates typically find employment?

Major Chicago health systems employ thousands of administrators, including Northwestern Medicine with 25 hospitals and Rush University Medical Center's academic health system. State government positions through the Illinois Department of Public Health offer stable career paths. Insurance companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois maintain significant administrative staff in the state. Many graduates also work for consulting firms serving the healthcare industry or pursue roles in long-term care facilities throughout Illinois.

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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.