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Best Value History Colleges in Illinois

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

The University of Chicago stands apart in Illinois History programs with earnings of $39,369 despite a net cost of $18,967, while public options like University of Illinois Springfield offer remarkably affordable education at just $8,916 net cost. This price spread reflects the state's educational market where public universities dominate the value equation. Northern Illinois University graduates earn $36,437 annually, demonstrating that strong career outcomes don't require premium tuition. Illinois benefits from Chicago's status as a major financial and cultural center, creating opportunities for History graduates in museums, archives, law firms, and government agencies. The Chicago History Museum and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library represent the state's commitment to preserving historical narratives. Public institutions maintain affordability through state funding, with most programs costing under $16,000 net annually. Graduation rates vary significantly, from Northeastern Illinois University's concerning 16.8% to the University of Chicago's strong 94.9%, highlighting the importance of institutional support systems.
46
Programs
$8,837 – $35,196
Net Price Range
$30,402
Avg. Program Earnings
58.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

46 History Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,916 $28,236 $12,252 61.4% 82.0%
2 $12,909 $36,437 $12,700 49.6% 70.7%
3 $11,592 $27,765 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
4 $12,313 $28,870 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
5 $13,696 $31,314 $12,922 55.0% 97.5%
6 $18,967 $39,369 $66,939 94.9% 5.4%
7 $15,201 $31,314 $16,004 84.9% 44.8%
8 $13,550 $27,126 $12,383 16.8% 62.7%
9 $18,996 $35,823 $16,021 66.3% 86.2%
10 $14,093 $26,121 $13,403 45.2% 68.0%
11 $16,177 $28,236 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
12 $20,152 $30,409 $20,280 41.0% 88.3%
13 $18,191 $26,896 $35,325 56.0% 68.0%
14 $23,033 $32,925 $44,394 71.1% 60.9%
15 $18,992 $27,048 $28,220 58.3% 81.9%
16 $27,143 $38,505 $65,997 95.9% 7.2%
17 $18,034 $25,194 $43,520 60.1% 90.7%
18 $22,048 $30,173 $28,400 40.6% 86.7%
19 $23,572 $30,771 $39,680 72.1% 75.1%
20 $35,196 $32,569 $51,716 76.9% 79.2%
21 $29,141 $23,340 $44,460 70.0% 70.2%
22 $17,324 $35,740 42.7% 61.7%
23 $26,984 $43,930 86.6% 88.4%
24 $21,814 $26,758 52.4% 64.4%
25 $21,386 $12,320 45.7% 91.3%
26 $16,381 $20,325 63.9% 70.7%
27 $10,133 $12,754 16.9% 48.5%
28 $16,774 $36,258 47.4% 93.0%
29 $12,093 $36,840 59.0% 84.1%
30 $16,284 $37,000 64.6% 58.4%
31 $15,113 $37,844 62.4% 89.5%
32 $21,063 $41,628 65.2% 76.0%
33 $23,066 $37,300 38.3% 54.9%
34 $24,875 $55,587 67.5% 73.3%
35 $21,539 $37,940 60.3% 57.8%
36 $9,477 $11,320 19.6% 57.5%
37 $21,270 $30,598 51.4% 94.1%
38 $23,529 $34,290 51.0% 93.1%
39 $29,550 $55,704 82.5% 42.2%
40 $17,945 $37,470 61.1% 77.2%
41 $25,027 $30,910 53.3% 58.2%
42 $8,837 $26,892 59.1% 75.4%
43 $24,190 $34,070 59.5% 68.4%
44 $12,437 $49,834 79.2% 61.2%
45 $18,370 $37,882 62.6% 74.1%
46 $27,499 $54,202 70.4% 59.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the University of Chicago's high earnings of $39,369 for History graduates?

The University of Chicago's rigorous academic reputation and extensive alumni network in finance, law, and academia drive higher starting salaries. The school's 94.9% graduation rate indicates strong student support and preparation for competitive careers. Chicago's location provides access to major law firms, financial institutions, and cultural organizations that actively recruit liberal arts graduates. The university's emphasis on critical thinking and research skills aligns well with employer needs in knowledge-based industries.

How do Illinois public universities compare in affordability for History students?

University of Illinois Springfield leads in affordability at $8,916 net cost, followed by Western Illinois University at $11,592 and University of Illinois Chicago at $12,313. Most public options fall between $11,000-$16,000 annually after aid, making them accessible to middle-income families. The MAP Grant program helps Illinois residents reduce costs further at state institutions. Public universities offer similar curriculum quality at substantially lower prices than private alternatives.

Is Northern Illinois University a good value despite its 49.6% graduation rate?

Northern Illinois University offers strong value with graduates earning $36,437 annually and a reasonable net cost of $12,909. The graduation rate reflects broader challenges at mid-tier public universities but doesn't diminish career outcomes for successful completers. Students who finish the program demonstrate earning potential that rivals more expensive private institutions. The university's location near Chicago provides internship and job opportunities that boost career prospects.

Does Illinois State University justify its higher cost of $18,996?

Illinois State University's graduates earn $35,823 annually with a solid 66.3% graduation rate, supporting its position as a premium public option. The university's teacher education programs create additional career pathways for History majors interested in secondary education. At $18,996 net cost, it remains competitive with private institutions while offering public university accessibility. The Normal location provides a college town environment that many students prefer over urban settings.

Where do Illinois History graduates find the best job opportunities?

Chicago offers the most opportunities with museums, law firms, financial services companies, and government agencies actively hiring liberal arts graduates. The city houses major cultural institutions like the Art Institute and Field Museum that employ historians and archivists. Springfield provides government positions related to Illinois history and the Lincoln legacy sites. Graduates also find success in education, with Illinois school districts seeking qualified social studies teachers throughout the state.

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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.