2024 Best Colleges for Public Policy in Illinois

• 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

• 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

• Champaign, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  4,946 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 4,946 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $14,272

• SAT range 1320-1510

• Aurora, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  839 reviews

Freshman: My experience with Aurora University has been great. I'm earning my bachelor's degree in psychology online at Aurora University. Their staff is very supportive and helpful with questions you may have, financial aid, your courses, and many other things. My counselors are very friendly, the staff at their bookstore is friendly, and overall their staff is amiable and I haven't had an issue with anyone. I can't wait to continue my 4-year journey with this university!... Read 839 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,410

• SAT range 960-1130

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  710 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 710 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $20,260

• SAT range 890-1140

• Elgin, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  263 reviews

Niche User: Located along the Fox River, the campus has ample natural beauty. If I'm being totally honest, the dorms here are average so it may be worth commuting if you live in nearby suburbs, Chicago, or southern Wisconsin. The community here is super friendly and tight-knit, it is very common that you'll find mutual connections here whether it be with students or even staff. Here at Judson, the programs that seem to receive the most attention here are music (choir or orchestra), architecture, and design. The music building is one of the nicest on campus and features many amenities. Judson's choir and orchestra departments are great and you get the opportunity to travel aboard for seasonal tours. The sports here could be better as the building needs some major renovations but it is rapidly improving as they just built a new football stadium. If you plan to play soccer or volleyball, you'll be in good hands. Overall, Judson University is a great liberal arts college, can't wait to apply!... Read 263 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $18,266

• SAT range 870-1130

• 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

• Springfield, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  495 reviews

Sophomore: As a first-gen college student, my experience at the University of Illinois Springfield was transformative. The university provided me with an opportunity for self-discovery and navigating the challenges of higher education. Joining the Necessary Steps program, designed for first-generation and diverse students, profoundly impacted my journey. Became my support system and family away from home. Through this program, I found a community of individuals who understood my unique obstacles. The resources and guidance offered by the program helped me navigate and thrive academically. The friendships I formed extended beyond the classroom, providing a network of support throughout my college years.The university's inclusive environment fostered cultural exchange, broadening my appreciation for diverse traditions while embracing my own heritage. I want to see more cultural events would enhance inclusivity. Overall university's support and cultural exposure shaped my journey.... Read 495 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $11,965

• SAT range 990-1250

• Palos Heights, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  313 reviews

Sophomore: I love my college because of the friendships and the professor relationships I have made- the community here is absolutely incredible! That being said, because we are a smaller school, we lack in some areas, like a nicer dining hall or nicer dorm buildings. I also think communication between the departments could be significantly better. It's often an issue with the financial aid department, but they send me to student life or to the registrar. But once I talk to them, they send me back to financial aid. Overall, I am glad to be here, but there are some things I wish could be improved.... Read 313 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $14,700

• SAT range 950-1220

• 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

• Macomb, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,767 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 1,767 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $11,666

• SAT range 950-1150

• 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

• 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

• Bourbonnais, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,399 reviews

Senior: My overall experience here through out olivet has been awesome. I loved the professor to student ratio and the small school environment. The location is ideal if you want to get away from your hometown/city. And its close enough away to go to Chicago or other schools. The culture of the school is very tight knit family environment. People truly care about each other here even during the toughest of times! I would like to see more Christians living out their faith more boldly here. Don't get me wrong, there is a ton, but the more the merrier.... Read 1,399 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $20,431

• SAT range 970-1200

• Elmhurst, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,074 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 1,074 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,018

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,668 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 3,668 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• 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

• Joliet, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  337 reviews

Freshman: The University of St. Francis campus provides a vibrant and supportive environment for learning and personal growth. The university offers modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and recreational spaces, to support student's academic and extracurricular pursuits.... Read 337 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $16,949

• SAT range 920-1170

• Carbondale, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  2,067 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 2,067 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $15,976

• SAT range 930-1160

• 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

• Decatur, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  633 reviews

Graduate Student: Millikin has been great so far! I have really enjoyed getting to know my professors personally. The Masters Entry into Nursing Practice (MENP) program is definitely not a walk in the park, but I feel very challenged and know that at the end, I will be adequately prepared to perform my nursing duties once I begin working. Clinicals at Millikin are well planned and executed, and our professors are always willing and ready to guide us in whatever way they can. My cohort is small but close knit, and we are always ready to help one another. Regarding the campus itself, I particularly love the sense of community felt on campus. One reason I chose this school was because of its small size and the fact that I would have more meaningful interactions with my professors and peers. At Millikin, there are activities for people with different interests and talents, such as the different choirs, cultural associations, sports teams, etc.... Read 633 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $20,055

• SAT range 960-1190

• 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

• River Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  500 reviews

Graduate Student: My experience at Concordia University Chicago has been incredible! From dedicated faculty to a vibrant campus community, it's been a journey of growth and learning. The small class sizes, diverse opportunities, and career support have all contributed to a fulfilling college experience.... Read 500 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $18,817

• SAT range 990-1180

• Quincy, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.37 out of 5  273 reviews

Sophomore: Quincy University gives amazing opportunities for students, they give you a success coach which is a bit different than other types of schools. My success coach helped me with my classes, she helped me figure out my financial aid, etc. she was great!... Read 273 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $16,423

• SAT range 1060-1240

• Normal, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,108 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 3,108 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $21,033

• SAT range 1000-1200