2024 Best Colleges for Physics in Illinois

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,287 reviews

Senior: At UChicago, I found the ideal blend of rigorous academics, preprofessional resources, and an extensive alumni network, which has paved the way for my dream job in private equity investment post graduation. The academic program here is intellectually stimulating, challenging me to think critically and hone analytical skills. Collaborations with Booth Business School and the Harris School of Public Policy (YES! you can take classes at these schools during college!) have been instrumental, offering practical courses and diverse perspectives. The university's preprofessional support at Career Advancement Office has been outstanding, guiding me through internships and career development. The alumni network, filled with successful professionals, has provided invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities. The University of Chicago has been the perfect launchpad for my education and career development, and I never regret taking the offer during RD a few years back.... Read 1,287 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $33,727

• SAT range 1510-1580

• Evanston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,471 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 1,471 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $29,999

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Champaign, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,947 reviews

Freshman: This college has a fun and lively campus with copious amounts of clubs, athletic opportunities, and areas to explore. The student body contains some of the kindest people I've ever met. The campus itself is very accessible for people with disabilities, and the bus system is perfect for whether you are traveling on or off campus. there's a huge promotion of wellness all across campus, making the environment feel very hospitable. In terms of my major, graphic design, all of the professors I've had are some of the most brilliant artists I've ever met. My peers and I all agree that we have learned such a large amount of new art concepts in what feels like a brief amount of time. This school also contains a massive art museum on campus which boasts many different styles of painting, sculpture, etc. As I graphic design major, I would say that UIUC is a wonderful school to attend and take the first steps into adulthood!... Read 4,947 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $14,272

• SAT range 1320-1510

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  733 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 733 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

• Bloomington, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  637 reviews

Freshman: I am an international student and I do like this University. I should note that weather and the environment here is pretty good, trees, greenery and fresh air can be found here. Regarding academics, professors are to the most part good with willingness to help and courseload is manageable. One more thing, if you are an international student Illinois Wesleyan is really generous when it comes to scholarships and financial aid. Definitely, do consider applying here!... Read 637 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 45%

• Net price $30,610

• SAT range 1110-1310

• Galesburg, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  541 reviews

Junior: I genuinely love Knox. The professors truly care about their students and despite them being busy with research/ teaching, they will ABSOLUTELY make time for you. The school does a pretty good job hosting events and there are also many clubs that host events. Yes, Galesburg is small which is not for everyone but personally I enjoy it— food is pretty cheap/ surprisingly good & the old architecture is beautiful. I have met amazing people at Knox, it’s so easy to meet people (and get good housing!) since we are a small school. Finally, there are some issues with Greek life, but much less than at larger schools as only 30% of the campus is involved. Please do not write off knox just because it seems laid back or easy to get into. Most students here are extremely smart, hardworking, humble, and friendly, and the classes & extracurriculars are vigorous but rewarding! I rate knox 4/5 stars because it is not perfect, but it always strives to be better and that is what makes it so amazing!... Read 541 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $25,476

• SAT range 1150-1380

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,517 reviews

Freshman: The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is an amazing university for easing into the college life. You're not just thrown into all of the many college responsibilities at once, and they provide many resources for incoming and returning students to be successful during their four years at UIC. Even though a lot of students that attend this university are commuters, like myself, UIC provides a space for us to do work and it still feels like a community. They always have events taking place on campus and sometimes in other places around Chicago. The people here are nice for the most part and they ensure that no one has to deal with sexual misconduct, harassment, peer pressure, hazing, or anything else along those lines. UIC also has astounding programs that help keep students on track, express themselves and their identity through sexuality and or culture, and help sharpen skills in things that students are interested in. The campus is very diverse with all walks of life. Come join UIC!... Read 3,517 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Monmouth, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  571 reviews

Sophomore: Monmouth College is great! I like the small class sizes and how all of the professors are super friendly. Whenever I have any questions or need help they have an open door policy and are always willing to help. Another great think about Monmouth is there is so many ways to get involved on campus weather it is sport, Greek life, or clubs.... Read 571 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $17,935

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,089 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 3,089 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $29,371

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Elmhurst, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,075 reviews

Sophomore: Elmhurst University is the best in state college I could've chose! My experience at the university is/was absolutely amazing. The small student body provided me more chances to form close bonds with instructors and fellow students, resulting in a more tailored and interesting learning environment. With a plethora of extracurricular activities, groups, and events to participate in, this sense of community goes beyond the classroom and guarantees you enjoy the "college experience" that I truly do like. The school offers lots of options for research projects, study abroad programs, and internships, so you can broaden your horizons and get experience while pursuing your degree. The campus is a great place to live, learn, and develop because it is lovely and well-equipped with amenities. However, I feel as if they could expand its scholarship and financial assistance programs. It could enable Elmhurst University to serve a wider student body at a lower cost of education.... Read 1,075 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,018

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Romeoville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  944 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Lewis University so far has been truly amazing. I found the University to be very welcoming, safe, and inclusive. Lewis University truly abide by its La Sallian mission and truly support student all student and makes available all the resources needed for success. Even though overall I would consider Lewis University amazing, some things that I would like to see change are more university-funded activities for students to engage in and to make better use of certain open green spaces.... Read 944 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  3,670 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 3,670 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Normal, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,110 reviews

Junior: Illinois State University holds a special place in my heart for numerous reasons. Firstly, my brother and sister were enrolled here, creating a unique connection that enhanced our educational journey. The sense of unity and camaraderie extended beyond my immediate family, as I had the privilege of being a part of the vibrant Greek life community on campus. This allowed me to forge lifelong friendships, develop leadership skills, and engage in meaningful community service. Moreover, the academics at Illinois State University are truly top-notch. The dedicated and passionate faculty members foster an environment of intellectual curiosity and academic excellence. Their commitment to student success is evident through their accessibility and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure students reach their full potential. The university's robust programs and research opportunities enable students to explore their passions and prepare for future careers.... Read 3,110 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $21,033

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Greenville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  428 reviews

Sophomore: Greenville University for me when I first applied and even got accepted was very questionable. Giving that the school is 1,000 miles away from my home, my family, and even my daily living, but as I expand through Greenville became knowledge with professors, coaches, teammates and classmates. I noticed this school isn't bad at all. Actually I notice Greenville may be the only school for me not to be bias but giving the major classroom help and peaceful campus I can't ask for a more demanding way of me about to reach my next step. Following my education at this school definitely will confirm a spot in a successful field in this world for sure.... Read 428 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $21,848

• SAT range 900-1170

• Charleston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,352 reviews

Niche User: My experience during the tour at Eastern IL University was phenomenal! The staff was patient with each of us and it was a pretty big group! I enjoyed hearing their personal experiences at EIU and the helpful details of what to do in becoming an RA, and other work opportunities on campus. Travis had great insight on where and how to look for scholarship opportunities in which my mother was very impressed! Overall… a fantastic experience!... Read 1,352 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $13,669

• SAT range 900-1140

• Naperville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  909 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 909 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $26,207

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Macomb, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,769 reviews

Junior: Western Illinois is a tight knit, wonderful community. There is so much diversity here, including a multi-cultural center. All of the professors are more than willing to work with their students. Most will make some personal connection with students to make them feel comfortable and more at home. The campus is beautiful! There are so many events and things to do here if you seek things out. There are many nature reserves within a 10 mile radius of the town. The curriculum is fair and challenging at the same time, so you never feel like you have too much or too little on your plate. The campus has endless resources and friendly staff in each department. The town is not the biggest, but you won't ever be bored.... Read 1,769 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $11,666

• SAT range 950-1150

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,766 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 2,766 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $25,262

• SAT range —

• Dekalb, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  2,759 reviews

Alum: Northern Illinois University is a campus full of a diverse student and faculty population. It’s not a perfect place. Some professors have racial biases and harsh grading, you may clash with some students, but you will find a tight knit community, friendly and welcoming staff and students. A variety of majors to choose from. A diverse age range of students - from 18 year old first time students to 30+ year olds returning to college to start a degree or complete previously unfinished degrees. There’s fun activities to take part of, on campus events regularly, great local dining options and it is truly a memorable experience to attend. Go Huskies!... Read 2,759 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $13,265

• SAT range 940-1170

• Edwardsville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,708 reviews

Senior: Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is an amazing school for students all over the world. There is value, culture, quality education, and diversity. They spend a lot of time supporting, honoring, and welcoming students by providing resources for those in vulnerable populations, the LGBTQ+ community, multicultural backgrounds, and low income families. There is great food on campus, access to transportation, mental health services, and community involvement. For students with children, there is a center on campus to allow students to work and work on their education. The professors seem to be more than properly educated and passionate. They use their time on campus to help and value students. If SIUE could change anything, they should try to provide more students with opportunities to afford the daily necessities that come with college living (transportation, fees, food, etc).... Read 1,708 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $15,519

• SAT range 920-1160

• Carbondale, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  2,068 reviews

Junior: Going to college at SIUC has been so wonderful. The beauty that Southern Illinois has to offer really sealed the deal for me, I enjoy hiking on the weekends and whenever I need a good study break. SIU really has been great to me. They're very considerate and have been very understanding when I reached out for help. There's tons of fun events that the school holds which includes free food and t-shirts which is super fun. My only complaint is that the parking division is rude and hands out tickets left and right, but I think every University is like that. It has been so fun to go to school here and enjoying the beautiful campus and events the school holds. I really appreciate the scholarships that SIU gives out, they're very generous with both scholarships and grants. The dorms are great and the food at the dining hall is actually amazing. Also, Carbondale is so fun! Especially the bars! SIUC is a really safe, fun environment and I couldn't of asked for a better place to go to college.... Read 2,068 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $15,976

• SAT range 930-1160

• Peoria, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  1,232 reviews

Sophomore: I love the small feel of the campus and classrooms! I never have to ride a bus to get to my classes and I can get by without bringing a car. The food could be better but they have lots of options for all lifestyles (vegan, vegetarian, allergy friendly) and there's a Chick-fil-a on campus! They professors are excellent as well--always available and create a more personalized classroom experience with the smaller class sizes. I have also seen people get certain career opportunities over students from other schools simply because of Bradley's good academic reputation.... Read 1,232 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $25,312

• SAT range 1060-1280

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,197 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 1,197 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $14,133

• SAT range 810-1010

• Rock Island, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  797 reviews

Sophomore: From an academic perspective, Augustana has exceeded my expectations! The courses, professors, and career counselors are top-notch and dedicated to supporting student success and growth. It's common for students to develop long-lasting connections with professors, which results in research opportunities, study-abroad experiences, and mentorship. From the social perspective, I'd give it a more mixed review. First and foremost the school is small enough to where it almost feels like high school all over again. It's not that it's terribly difficult to make friends, but once the first year has gone by (and many people join Greek Life -- I did not) your chances at being exposed to new people greatly diminish. Also, from an off-campus life perspective, there is almost nothing to do -- Rock Island, Il is not the liveliest of college towns, and unless you have a car, there is no easy way to get to Davenport, Iowa (the largest of the Quad Cities).... Read 797 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $24,472

• SAT range —