2024 Best Colleges for Physics in the Chicago Area

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,256 reviews

Junior: I love attending UChicago! The professors are all very knowledgeable and generally love the subjects they are teaching. They are almost always willing to go out of their way to help you succeed and ensure that you get the best possible outcome from your experience. The classes are also extremely interesting and engaging! If you love learning and have a passion to collect information, you'll fit in perfectly at UChicago.... Read 1,256 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $33,727

• SAT range 1510-1580

• Evanston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,464 reviews

Junior: Northwestern University is a great college for students hoping to find a wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Northwestern offers a wide range of courses on many different topics and because of the number of courses required to complete most majors (12-16), students in the College of Arts and Sciences are able to explore classes outside their majors at their leisure. The Quarter System can feel intimidating at first because of how fast-paced the courses can be but it also allows students to take more classes each year than a semester system which means students get to learn even more! Campus is also beautiful, located right next to Lake Michigan, so students are able to spend time outside of class at the beach and walking on the Lakefill.... Read 1,464 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $29,999

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  732 reviews

Freshman: Illinois Tech is full of opportunities and wonderful experiences ranging from research opportunities and internships through the Elevate program. The classes at Illinois Tech are relatively smaller than other schools, which is something I prefer. The professors in STEM are very experienced in their fields. Sometimes professors might not be as proficient in explaining some topics because each student understands concept differently; however, they are very welcoming and appreciate students who are curious and inquirers. I have heard the research in Computer Science at Illinois Tech is cutting edge, and I hope to bring some ideas about navigation and positioning of non-stationary objects. The dorms could be better, though. Overall, the school is great!... Read 732 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $26,789

• SAT range 1230-1410

• Wheaton, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  674 reviews

Freshman: I have been extremely blessed to be able to go to Wheaton College! One of the aspects of Wheaton that really attracted me was the community and they do it really well. There so many different clubs and groups that you can join, and I love all the groups that I am a part of so far! The food is great, though it can get pretty tiring after the eating similar food for a while. Nevertheless, the food and the people who serve it are amazing. The "ring by spring" culture here can be very intimidating so I suggest you take it slow and don't put pressure on yourself to date. College can be hard and lonely, but floor life can be amazing if you invest in it! I have met someone of the most amazing people, but again, don't put pressure on yourself to be friends with everyone. Pro tip: bring a humidifier; the air is DRY, especially in the winter!... Read 674 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $28,319

• SAT range 1250-1430

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,498 reviews

Senior: University of Illinois Chicago is very diverse, which allows me to know people with different culture and background. The University is very open to hear students opinions and suggestions to changes that we believe are needed to better the school for everyone. Furthermore, the university takes great care of students overall mental health, thus multiple resources are available for students who needs help. One issue regarding the university is the doors on certain building are quiet heavy, hence student struggle to open them especially those with disability. I believe changing them will make things a lot easier for every students and including professors and adminstrators.... Read 3,498 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,073 reviews

Freshman: I really love how valued as a student I feel here. The esteemed faculty and other students continue to make me feel at home and reaffirm my choice to enroll here at Loyola. The one-on-one instruction that is provided here is unlike any other. Additionally, the opportunities offered are endless! The straight connection to the city of Chicago is immensely helpful for not only internships but the overall college experience. Loyola provides its students with the facilities to travel within the city safely and passes for the train. Loyola's emphasis on diversity inclusion is another feature that I value greatly and makes me proud to be a part of this establishment.... Read 3,073 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $29,371

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Elmhurst, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,013 reviews

Freshman: I have been loving Elmhurst University ever since I started attending here. I am an international freshman from Nepal, majoring in BS in Computer Science. Currently, I am in my second semester at Elmhurst, and the experience has been amazing. The campus community is small which makes it easier for students to interact with friends. Moreover, the classes are small as well, leading to an amazing teacher-student cooperative learning environment. There are two Starbucks coffee shops on campus - so you can grab your cup of coffee before and after attending a class (I work at both of them, and it has been a great experience). Furthermore, the food in the cafeteria is really good and affordable -- they also provide meal plans and customized dining options. Overall, I have had a very lively experience so far. I would definitely recommend the prospective students out there to have a visit to the campus!... Read 1,013 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,018

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Valparaiso, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,131 reviews

Junior: Valparaiso University is a small school in Valparaiso, Indiana who's boasts are its rich history with the Lutheran church, its nationally ranked college of engineering, college of nursing, and meteorology program. When it comes to academics, Valpo has tried its best to support me in both my successes and struggles. While the structural portion of the civil engineering courses seems to be subpar currently, all other classes have been advantageous for my degree. The College of engineering has helpful professors and helping hands offered by other students because of its small size. Socially, Valpo may be a little more difficult to navigate because there is a low student population. But, Valpo does try to offer everything it can to suit your wants and needs. As a christian, I was struggling to find a group. But I found the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a worship service called Celebrate! in which I now participate weekly in both. Valpo has served me well.... Read 1,131 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $21,997

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Romeoville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  937 reviews

Freshman: I enjoy the campus a lot. The staff and students have been welcoming and caring. Also, I enjoy the food they have here. My room did have an ant issue, but I have had so much support here. Everyone is respectful here at Lewis. It’s been my dream to attend this university and player here. Now, it’s one of the best decisions I have ever made!... Read 937 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $18,312

• SAT range 1050-1240

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,658 reviews

Sophomore: Getting registered can be one of the most frustrating and stressful parts of returning to school. As a non-traditional student, I have had experiences at other schools that made me weary of returning. DePaul’s registration and acceptance process was a breeze! Every person that I have encountered at DePaul University has been extremely helpful and supportive. Attending DePaul University has been the best college experience that I have ever had. The staff are knowledgeable and are genuinely interested in helping the student achieve their goals. Overall my experience has been no less than awesome!... Read 3,658 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Naperville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  907 reviews

Junior: Great experience so far. I enjoy the connection I have With the professors. The campus is easy to navigate. My experience right now is better than my previous college. I don’t mind taking 4 courses. I wish it was closer to home but I don’t mind traveling to school. I haven’t tried the campus food or delis yet cause my classes are in the evening. It’s also easy to reach out to ask any sort of questions. There’s a campus safety center, and the campus is actually beautiful. I planned on graduating 2025 and I believe my experience will definitely be way better. Something I’d change is the process of actually applying and register to classes were very complicated. If there was a better system for things like that, I’d definitely would like that for everyone else’s experience. The complicated process actually discourage me to even continue with the process. Other than that, everything is good so far and I’m enjoying my attendance at this school!... Read 907 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $26,207

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,756 reviews

Sophomore: I love the diversity, acceptance and creativity found everywhere at Columbia! My innovative major-Contemporary, Jazz and Popular-music allows me to combine jazz studies, performance, production and composition while playing in a wide range of showcase ensembles and independent bands. My instructors all work in their fields and provide hands-on opportunities. As a freshman I was able to work in the field -- rearranging new music for a musical theater project with a composer out of LA-- and get paid due to an internship with a professor. We have wonderful guest artists and composers on campus for workshops and more every semester.A lot of amazing opportunities exist if you are open to them due to the thriving city of Chicago and strong connections/programs in LA. It is a school for artists and creatives from around the world that deserves better rankings on Niche, rankings more in keeping with the kudos it gets from Hollywood Reporter for its music and film programs!... Read 2,756 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $25,262

• SAT range —

• Hammond, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,506 reviews

Sophomore: Even though I am currently a sophomore transitioning into a junior student at Purdue University Northwest this upcoming school year, I can already confidently say that my time at Purdue University Northwest has been one of the most delightful educational experiences I've ever had since elementary school. The environment created by both the general student body AND the professors allowed me to easily adapt and, therefore, get along with everybody, leading to a very digestible, excellent learning experience as a result! In addition, help and aide is just around the corner whenever I have any questions, concerns, and/or comments. Purdue University Northwest is truly an excellent choice for anyone looking for secondary education in the state of Indiana, especially in the Lake County!... Read 1,506 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $8,472

• SAT range 990-1190

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,189 reviews

Senior: Northeastern Illinois University is a public university located in Chicago, Illinois. The university prides itself on its diverse student body and affordable tuition rates. With a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, Northeastern Illinois University is a great choice for students seeking a quality education in an urban setting. Northeastern Illinois is a small campus, which is ideal for students of all ages who are seeking a very simple college experience. Due to the smaller campus size, students are easily able to find their classes, and get acclimated to the environment. The campus is also extremely safe and peaceful, therefore, it is perfect for students needing that space to really focus.... Read 1,189 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $14,133

• SAT range 810-1010

• Lisle, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  482 reviews

Junior: I am an incoming student athlete coming from Mesa Community College. Where I previously participated on the NJCAA Softball Team at Mesa Community College. During the transfer process to, Benedictine University in Mesa, Arizona, I have felt at home when it came to making the decision to commit to BenU. The staff and Professors were very warm and welcoming upon my very first arrival. And I more than excited to participate in the many programs that Benedictine University has to offer not only as an athlete but as a student interesting in opening her own business as well.... Read 482 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $24,746

• SAT range 1050-1280

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  709 reviews

Senior: North Park is incredibly gifted at preparing students for practical knowledge needed in healthcare, and stem-related jobs. The small class structure allows for students to develop a plan with faculty for their future, and brings more opportunities such as research to more of the student body than many larger schools where it is more competitive for those positions. Overall, a wonderful experience at NPU, and would recommend the school for someone who cares solely about developing academically, and having a close-knit student body.... Read 709 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $20,260

• SAT range 890-1140

• Lake Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  481 reviews

Sophomore: Lake Forest College is small liberal arts school in northern Illions. Found of the coast of lake Michigan and 30 minutes from Chicago the school offers a variety of majors, sports, clubs, and activites for students. With a train running right outside campus its a gateway to the second city for students to go explore more outside of campus. As a rising sophmore I love the tight knit enviorment with studntes and faculty along with the quite, cozy town of Lake Forest surroundin the campus. I am excited to start my second year here!... Read 481 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $25,126

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.31 out of 5  645 reviews

Senior: My experience at Chicago State University, allowed me to become a well-rounded, social individual. I made a lot of new friends as well as enjoying the atmosphere of college life. The professors educational standards were excellent and well organized. I also gain a personal relationship with some of the faculty. Not only did these actions occur during class time but sometimes occurring off campus as well, leading to new friendships. With the opportunities I was given I forfilled my life long dream of receiving my degree as well as walking across the stage.... Read 645 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $4,846

• SAT range 750-1030