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Cheapest Visual and Performing Arts Colleges in Illinois

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

University of Illinois Chicago offers Visual and Performing Arts students a remarkable deal at just $12,313 net cost, making it more affordable than some community colleges. This public university in Chicago provides direct access to the city's thriving theater scene, music venues, and film industry that employ thousands of creative professionals. The cost gap between UIC and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago reaches over $37,000 annually, yet both maintain similar acceptance rates around 78%. Northwestern University graduates 95.9% of its arts students but charges $27,143 net cost, while several private colleges like Trinity Christian and Concordia offer middle-ground options under $17,000.
14
Programs
$12,313 – $49,822
Net Price Range
$30,228
Avg. Program Earnings
60.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

14 Visual and Performing Arts, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,313 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
2 $15,113 $37,844 62.4% 89.5%
3 $16,284 $37,000 64.6% 58.4%
4 $16,381 $20,325 63.9% 70.7%
5 $16,774 $36,258 47.4% 93.0%
6 $18,370 $37,882 62.6% 74.1%
7 $18,470 $13,546 40.0%
8 $21,063 $41,628 65.2% 76.0%
9 $21,270 $30,598 51.4% 94.1%
10 $21,386 $12,320 45.7% 91.3%
11 $21,814 $26,758 52.4% 64.4%
12 $27,143 $65,997 95.9% 7.2%
13 $29,141 $44,460 70.0% 70.2%
14 $49,822 $54,530 64.0% 79.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Illinois Chicago such an affordable option for arts students?

UIC's $12,313 net cost reflects strong state funding and need-based aid that brings the actual price well below its $14,338 sticker price. The university maintains a 78.69% acceptance rate and 60.30% graduation rate while providing access to Chicago's extensive arts community.

How do private college costs compare for Visual and Performing Arts programs in Illinois?

Private schools range from Trinity Christian's $16,381 net cost to School of the Art Institute of Chicago's $49,822. Dominican University and University of St Francis both offer solid middle options around $15,000-$16,000 with graduation rates above 62%.

Does Northwestern University justify its higher cost for arts students?

Northwestern's 95.90% graduation rate far exceeds other Illinois schools, though its $27,143 net cost reflects selective admissions with only 7.21% acceptance. The university's proximity to Chicago's media and entertainment industries provides strong career connections.

Where do Visual and Performing Arts graduates typically earn in Illinois?

Recent data shows Visual and Performing Arts graduates earning around $30,228 annually in Illinois. Chicago's entertainment sector, including theater districts and music venues, provides the state's largest concentration of arts employment opportunities.

More Visual and Performing Arts, General Rankings

Best Value Visual and Performing Arts, General in Illinois Visual and Performing Arts, General Under $20,000 in Illinois

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All Visual and Performing Arts, General Programs Best Colleges in Illinois Best Visual and Performing Arts, General in Illinois

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