In 2024, Illinois remains a prime location for students seeking quality education at an affordable cost, particularly through online platforms.
Institutions provide flexible and affordable online degrees in Illinois for students to achieve their academic goals without the constraints of traditional campus life.
Students have access to many bachelor's degree programs that allow students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
Featured Online Degree Programs in Illinois
Below is a curated list of some of the most affordable online degrees in Illinois, highlighting their unique features and how they cater to different academic and professional aspirations.
1. University of Illinois Springfield
The University of Illinois Springfield offers 15 online bachelor's degree programs, covering different fields designed for students who want to advance their education remotely.
The available courses cover a variety of areas, including business administration, information systems security, and political science.
Most programs at UIS are structured to consist of 120 credit hours, enabling students to complete their degree in approximately four years. The tuition for these online programs is set at $358.50 per credit hour.
2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign extends its online bachelor's degree offerings and provides three distinct online programs, specializing in early childhood education, social work, and environmental sustainability.
These programs are designed to be completed within a span of three to four years. The cost of tuition varies between programs, ranging from $424 to $510 per credit hour.
UIUC also assists students in applying for financial aid, which can significantly reduce the total cost of these programs.
3. University of Illinois Chicago
At the University of Illinois Chicago, students can choose from three unique online bachelor's degree programs including a bachelor of business administration, a BS in health information management, and an RN to BSN.
They are completion programs, meaning students must transfer existing credits toward their degree.
For example, the BS in HIM requires 63 credit hours and can be completed in two years if students transfer 30 credits from previous coursework. The tuition for this program is $500 per credit hour.
4. Southern Illinois University
Southern Illinois University provides a variety of online bachelor's degree programs, designed for both new students and those with credits from other institutions.
Among its offerings are regular degrees and completion programs in fields like accounting, psychology, and information technology.
These programs typically comprise 120 credit hours, with a standard tuition rate of $321.50 per credit hour before additional fees.
Online students at Southern Illinois University have access to financial aid opportunities, including scholarships and federal aid programs.
5. Northern Illinois University
Northern Illinois University offers a selection of online bachelor's degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in health sciences, applied management, and medical laboratory sciences.
Additionally, there's a Bachelor of Arts in political science available. These programs require students to complete between 30 and 40 credit hours at Northern Illinois University.
Tuition costs, inclusive of fees, range from $466.80 to $516.80 per credit hour, varying with the chosen program.
6. Eastern Illinois University
Eastern Illinois University presents a list of online bachelor's degree and completion study options. These programs are designed to prepare students for emerging professions, including health communication, organizational development, and public health.
The tuition at Eastern Illinois University is $330.10 per credit hour, and students should also consider the additional $9.75 textbook rental fee and a $80 student fee per credit hour.
The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparedness (CAEP).
7. Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University offers a diverse array of online bachelor's degree programs, focusing on cost-effective education.
Students can choose from programs aligned with their career goals, including business analytics, accountancy, and human resources management.
The standard tuition fee for undergraduate programs is $326.70 per credit hour, excluding other applicable fees.
There is also a one-time transcript fee of $15 upon enrollment in the first semester. Western Illinois University provides assistance with financial aid programs to help qualifying students reduce their financial burden.
Other Universities Offering Affordable Online Programs
Below we include other universities across the country that offer affordable online bachelor's degree programs to Illinois residents.
Drexel University
Drexel University offers over 40 online bachelor's degree programs, delivering top-quality education and interactive classes.
Students can choose to earn a degree in areas like business administration, mechanical engineering, and sociology. The programs typically require 180 quarter credits, equivalent to 120 semester credit hours.
The cost per credit hour depends on the selected program, ranging from $350 to $409. Additionally, all programs include a one-time fee of $350, charged during the first term.
What Is the Cheapest Online College in Illinois?
The cheapest online college is determined not just by the tuition fees but also by other expenses such as textbooks and additional fees.
Southern Illinois University with its $321.50 per credit hour fee, offers the lowest tuition rate compared to others in the state.
However, the affordability of a college can vary depending on the specific program and the individual needs of the student.
How Much Does an Online Degree Cost in Illinois?
The cost of an affordable online degree in Illinois varies widely depending on the institution, program, and the number of credit hours required.
On average, tuition fees can range anywhere from around $325 to more than $600 per credit hour. However, this is just the base cost.
Additional expenses such as technology fees, online course fees, textbooks, and other materials also contribute to the total cost.
How To Pay for an Online Degree in Illinois
Students can start by applying for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can provide access to grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Scholarships are a crucial resource, these can be offered by the institutions themselves, as well as external organizations, and are often based on merit, need, specific studies, or other criteria.
Find an Online College in Illinois Today
Begin your higher education process with the diverse range of online colleges offering affordable online degrees in Illinois.
With options for every budget and academic interest, you can find a college that aligns with your educational goals and financial capabilities.
