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Cheapest International/Global Studies Colleges in Illinois

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

University of Illinois Springfield delivers the state's most affordable International/Global Studies education at $8,916 net cost, while maintaining a solid 61.4% graduation rate that outperforms many competitors. This stark contrast becomes clear when comparing Springfield's costs to private options like Illinois Institute of Technology at $19,353, creating a $10,000+ annual savings gap. Chicago's role as a major financial center and home to numerous multinational corporations creates natural internship and career pathways for global studies graduates. The Illinois MAP Grant program further reduces costs for qualifying students, making public universities particularly attractive for this field. With 18 programs across the state, students can choose between budget-conscious public options and smaller private colleges that offer different learning environments.
18
Programs
$8,916 – $35,196
Net Price Range
57.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

18 International/Global Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,916 $12,252 61.4% 82.0%
2 $10,133 $12,754 16.9% 48.5%
3 $13,550 $12,383 16.8% 62.7%
4 $13,696 $12,922 55.0% 97.5%
5 $15,201 $16,004 84.9% 44.8%
6 $16,177 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
7 $17,945 $37,470 61.1% 77.2%
8 $18,034 $43,520 60.1% 90.7%
9 $18,191 $35,325 56.0% 68.0%
10 $19,353 $51,763 72.4% 61.4%
11 $21,270 $30,598 51.4% 94.1%
12 $23,033 $44,394 71.1% 60.9%
13 $23,066 $37,300 38.3% 54.9%
14 $23,529 $34,290 51.0% 93.1%
15 $24,190 $34,070 59.5% 68.4%
16 $24,875 $55,587 67.5% 73.3%
17 $29,550 $55,704 82.5% 42.2%
18 $35,196 $51,716 76.9% 79.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Illinois Springfield stand out among affordable International Studies programs?

Springfield offers the lowest net cost at $8,916 while maintaining a 61.4% graduation rate, significantly higher than Chicago State's 16.9% despite similar pricing. The university provides strong academic outcomes without the premium pricing found at private institutions. Students benefit from both affordability and reasonable completion rates in this competitive field.

How do public and private International Studies costs compare in Illinois?

Public universities range from $8,916 to $16,177 in net costs, while private options span $17,945 to $24,190 among the most affordable. This creates roughly a $9,000 starting gap between sectors, with Illinois College offering the lowest private option at $17,945. Private schools often provide smaller class sizes and more personalized attention for the additional investment.

Is Chicago State University a good value despite its low graduation rate?

Chicago State's $10,133 net cost ranks second-lowest statewide, but the 16.9% graduation rate raises serious concerns about student success. The 48.5% acceptance rate suggests moderate selectivity, yet outcomes remain poor compared to other affordable options. Students should carefully weigh the low cost against the significant risk of not completing their degree.

Does University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign justify its higher costs for this major?

Urbana-Champaign's $15,201 net cost comes with an impressive 84.9% graduation rate, the highest among all 18 programs reviewed. The 44.8% acceptance rate indicates selectivity, and graduates average $21,439 in debt upon completion. For students who can gain admission, the superior outcomes may justify the premium over cheaper alternatives.

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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.