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Cheapest Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Colleges in Illinois

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

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates in Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods earn $68,592 annually, nearly double the $36,848 earned by Eastern Illinois University alumni. This earning gap of over $31,000 reflects the varied opportunities within Illinois's quantitative fields, from Chicago's financial sector to manufacturing analytics across the state. Western Illinois University offers the most affordable path at $11,592 net cost, while private institutions like University of St Francis charge $16,284 despite higher sticker prices. Illinois companies increasingly rely on data-driven decision making, creating demand for quantitative analysts in supply chain management, financial modeling, and operational research. The state's MAP Grant program helps reduce costs for qualifying students, making these analytical degrees more accessible. With graduation rates ranging from 36.9% at National Louis to 84.9% at Illinois, program selectivity and outcomes vary significantly. Chicago's finance industry, combined with the state's manufacturing base, provides multiple career paths for graduates skilled in statistical analysis and management science applications.
20
Programs
$11,592 – $29,141
Net Price Range
$48,932
Avg. Program Earnings
57.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,592 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
2 $12,313 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
3 $12,909 $12,700 49.6% 70.7%
4 $14,093 $13,403 45.2% 68.0%
5 $15,201 $16,004 84.9% 44.8%
6 $16,157 $12,345 36.9% 92.1%
7 $16,177 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
8 $16,284 $37,000 64.6% 58.4%
9 $17,324 $35,740 42.7% 61.7%
10 $17,945 $37,470 61.1% 77.2%
11 $18,370 $37,882 62.6% 74.1%
12 $18,992 $28,220 58.3% 81.9%
13 $18,996 $16,021 66.3% 86.2%
14 $20,152 $20,280 41.0% 88.3%
15 $21,539 $37,940 60.3% 57.8%
16 $23,033 $44,394 71.1% 60.9%
17 $23,529 $34,290 51.0% 93.1%
18 $23,572 $39,680 72.1% 75.1%
19 $24,190 $34,070 59.5% 68.4%
20 $29,141 $44,460 70.0% 70.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $31,000 earnings difference between top and bottom programs?

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates earn $68,592 compared to $36,848 at Eastern Illinois University, reflecting differences in program rigor and employer recognition. Illinois's flagship university maintains stronger connections to Chicago's financial district and major corporations seeking quantitative talent. The 44.82% acceptance rate at Urbana-Champaign versus 67.96% at Eastern Illinois also indicates more selective admissions. Program location matters significantly in Illinois, where Chicago-area access creates more internship and networking opportunities.

How do public universities compare to private colleges for affordability?

Public institutions dominate the most affordable options, with five of the top six programs. Western Illinois leads at $11,592 net cost, followed by University of Illinois Chicago at $12,313. However, National Louis University breaks this pattern as a private school charging $16,157 net cost while offering competitive earnings of $56,234. Private colleges often provide more financial aid, bringing net costs closer to public alternatives despite higher sticker prices.

Does program cost correlate with graduation rates in Illinois?

The relationship between cost and outcomes varies considerably across Illinois programs. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign charges $15,201 but delivers an 84.9% graduation rate and the highest earnings. Conversely, Western Illinois costs just $11,592 but graduates only 44.8% of students. National Louis University shows concerning patterns with 36.9% graduation rates despite moderate costs. Students should weigh both affordability and completion likelihood when choosing programs.

Where do Management Sciences graduates find the best job opportunities in Illinois?

Chicago's financial sector offers the strongest earning potential, explaining why University of Illinois Chicago graduates earn $42,123 despite the program's low $12,313 cost. The city houses major commodity exchanges, banks, and consulting firms requiring quantitative analysis skills. Manufacturing companies throughout Illinois also hire operations research specialists and supply chain analysts. Healthcare systems increasingly need data analysts for patient flow and resource optimization, creating opportunities beyond traditional finance roles.

What debt levels should students expect from Illinois Management Sciences programs?

Student debt ranges from $15,251 at University of Illinois Chicago to $27,000 at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale among schools reporting data. Most programs fall between $20,000 and $25,000 in total borrowing, which remains manageable given earning potential. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates carry $20,500 in debt but earn enough to justify this investment. Illinois's MAP Grant program can reduce borrowing for students from families earning under specific income thresholds.

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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.