2024 Top Colleges for Trades and Personal Services in Illinois

• Wheeling, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  32 reviews

Junior: Very informative school, there are some problems which is to be expected as the new owners are updating the school in all aspects. I have noticed that the teachers and faculty respond well to what the students have to say, and greatly value our opinions. They have provided resources and opportunities that I would have otherwise never been able to access.... Read 32 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $23,152

• SAT range 1000-1090

• 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

• 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

• 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 3.66 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

• Godfrey, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  241 reviews

Graduate Student: I started my first year at LCCC at the peak of the Pandemic in the fall of 2020. Every one of my classes for that first year were virtual classes met over zoom or asynchronously. While my preferred learning method is hands on, I will say that the professors of Lewis and Clark Community College made the best of the circumstances, and I had a great time. I was only there for two years to get my associates degree, so I can't say that I saw enough of the school to have any opinions on what I would have liked to see change.... Read 241 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,137

• SAT range —

• Oglesby, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  209 reviews

Sophomore: Illinois Valley Community College has been incredibly helpful throughout my year here so far. They have been accommodating and their Project Success program, along with my wonderful counselor, Diane, have been helpful in regards to me figuring out what I want to do with my future! Thanks to her, I was able to decide on what major and minor I’d prefer for university!... Read 209 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,259

• SAT range —

• Champaign, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  575 reviews

Other: Where I would put my educational goals are out somewhere in the galaxy! They are extremely high, coming from a family where no one went to college. I would only have to say I take school very seriously. The world revolves on what is learned and you need to learn in order to comprehend. As for everyone knows that knowledge will bring you opportunities to make a huge difference. This scholarship will help tremendously with education. I am currently serving in the U.S. Army and would like to continue serving for my country as well as earn a degree in the mean time. I have already finished a few classes with a 4.0 grade scale. Yes 4.0 you heard me correctly, I work hard on class work and give everything 100%. I plan to go as far as trying to obtain my Doctorates! Thomas Jefferson said “ You can never be over educated” which if you sit back and think about it….. that truly makes a lot of sense. What does being overeducated look or sound like? I guess you will never know. Parkland College!... Read 575 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,093

• SAT range —

• Springfield, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  317 reviews

Freshman: The professors are great and gives you time to learn about what you want to major in! I enjoyed how much my success coach wanted to help me and how much they cared for their student's success. I learned so much at Lincoln Land and saved so much money in the long run which has helped me out tremendously. I was nervous about going there because all of my other friends had found their footing at 4-year universities, but it gave me the chance to do things at my pace and have the opportunity to take it slow. I would recommend Lincoln Land to anyone who wants to further their education, but wants to do it at the pace that suits you. The professors really do care a lot about you and try their best to help you learn, even the hardest of concepts. The student life likes to put on activities to make it feel more like college. Overall, I appreciated my time at Lincoln Land and would not take it for granted.... Read 317 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,604

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  127 reviews

Freshman: Television (a system for transmitting visual images and sound that are reproduced on screens, chiefly used to broadcast programs for entertainment, information, and education.) Television was some of the early ways to escape reality. Just sit down and watch a screen. And depending on what you were watching you would have gained something from it. It was as simple as turning a knob and having your antenna point the right way. Even though it was in all black and the volume wasn't too good it was fun and new around the time. Everyone wanted a TV and around the time TVs seemed like it was for only rich people. But slowly over time it got more obtainable for middle - low class people and televisions began to grow. Soon you were able to get cable on your TV but it definitely wasn’t cheap so most people stuck witme resolution. By contrast, 4K has a resolution of 3840x2160. That's a lot more pixels in the overall image — totaling over 8 million pixels. As always, the higher the resolution,... Read 127 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,670

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,669 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 3,669 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Dixon, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  174 reviews

Freshman: I've been attending Sauk for about two months and have really enjoyed my time there. The staff and employees are very nice and always ensure their students get the best education possible. There are many resources and areas for students to use. They have nice students hang out to allow students to do their work at school, and plenty of help resources for any circumstance. I plan to continue my education at Sauk for the next year and so on in their nursing program, and I look forward to seeing the new additions they are working on now, and possibly even more in the future!... Read 174 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,077

• SAT range —

• Palatine, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,021 reviews

Sophomore: Being a part of the Harper College community was a memorable experience. Harper has so many ways to stay involved in school and within your community. They provide so many financial opportunities for students who are in need. Personally, Harper has helped me a lot with school and has allowed me thrive academically. The professors at Harper are also very friendly and understanding. If i could stay at Harper longer, I definitely would!... Read 1,021 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,112

• SAT range —

• Des Plaines, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  579 reviews

Graduate Student: My educational and career path has been greatly aided by Oakton Community College. It gave me a strong foundation and priceless experiences that have formed my goals. Going to a community college was the best choice I made. I was fortunate to get a well-rounded education while attending Oakton Community College. The college is well known for its academic offerings, committed professors, and multicultural student body. I gained a comprehensive grasp of my topic of study, and it also assisted me in sharpening vital skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Oakton provided me with a supportive environment and many resources. I remember the panic about choosing a college after finishing High School. As the first person to attend college in America, I needed more knowledge about college and someone to guide me through this process.... Read 579 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,143

• SAT range —

• Elgin, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  726 reviews

Alum: Professors pour into you and care about your success, which is very encouraging! Also, many opportunities this College provides for career paths, it is remarkable. I made great connections with fellow students and bonds with professors that I will cherish for many years and I strive for excellence.... Read 726 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,140

• SAT range —

• Decatur, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  518 reviews

Sophomore: This is my second year experience, and Richard and I very much love it and appreciate all their love to their students. I have walked on stage, but currently I am taking three online classes for me to finish up and get my associate degree and move to Illinois State University in Springfield and without Richlands very sweet teachers, and overall staff and how affordable classes are I wouldn’t be able to get to where I am.... Read 518 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,524

• 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

• Danville, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  200 reviews

Sophomore: I've had a really positive experience attending Danville Area Community College. I began taking classes when I was a sophomore in high school. The courses I have taken, satisfied both the high school requirements as well as college requirements. When I graduated high school, I already had 55 college hours. This allowed me to attend DACC one more year before transferring to a 4-year college. This in-turn will help to keep the college cost down for me. The teachers I have had have been really supportive. I enjoy the smaller classes, as this allows more teacher to student ratio. DACC also has numerous scholarships each year. I was lucky enough to receive one and feel so fortunate. Nothing but a positive experience here.... Read 200 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,615

• SAT range —

• Galesburg, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  169 reviews

Freshman: Carl Sandburg college has went above and beyond supporting me while enrolling into their university. There are multiple programs provided to help individuals enroll into school and get the chance to chose the classes they want to take. These programs like TRIO, have really helped me throughout this whole process. They have helped me make my definite decision on what I want to do for the rest of my life. Carl Sandburg College staff are very nice, helpful and understanding for incoming freshman looking for help enrolling like myself.... Read 169 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $3,676

• SAT range —

• Palos Hills, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  925 reviews

Freshman: For starters; the Palos Hills Campus is beautiful; with impeccable landscaping and scenic views…It’s better than your average 2 yr college. This location has a lot to offer in regards to student life and the staff seemed professional and friendly for the most part! I got a late start in the registration process but I was able to navigate fairly easily to get started on time for the fall semester. The college is diverse when it comes to the student enrollment, and as a minority student, I didn’t feel any bias concerning race etc. The staff especially in the Liberal Arts Department, which is my field of study…was very kind, and helpful. In regards to the things I didn’t like?…I wish they had dorm rooms so I could live on campus Lol! But the staff in the bookstore seemed a bit rude and disorganized! There were only two lines open and our cashier left her station leaving us hang out in line as other students in the other line were served before us. Overall, I would recommend. 2 thumbs up.... Read 925 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $1,831

• SAT range —

• Sugar Grove, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  625 reviews

Alum: Waubonsee has been a positive part of my local community for as long as I can remember. It has been a reliable place to consider for continuing education locally. The programs offered have only expanded and improved with time. Online courses have greatly improved, compared to ten years ago. I have taken classes here off and on throughout my adult life. The past two years I attended full-time to complete my associates in science, with intent to transfer into a radiography program. During my time here, I have encountered minimal issues with professors. There were only two instructors that I can recall being less than helpful or clear about teaching course information effectively. College administration staff have always been helpful with answering my questions, and assisting me with course recommendations that fit my long-term career goals. I would definitely recommend and attend in the future if needed.... Read 625 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,455

• SAT range —

• Ullin, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  66 reviews

Sophomore: Even though it is a small, outdated school in the middle of no where, the staff were amazing. The staff is really personable and gives you the resources that you need to succeed. My professors really seemed to love their jobs. One thing I’d like to see change is the amount of school recreational activities other than sports games. Get a pizza party going, an ice cream social. A bonfire maybe. But, overall, its a great school.... Read 66 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $2,859

• SAT range —

• Mattoon, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  389 reviews

Sophomore: While at Lake Land I came into contact with a lot of professors and different people. I can honestly say, that my two years at Lake Land was filled with a lot of helpful and caring professors. If I ever had a question, no matter how silly it may have been, they were right there to answer them all. If you are looking for a community college to bridge the gap between your high school and four year university, Lake Land is the one I would HIGHLY recommend!... Read 389 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,219

• SAT range —

• Rockford, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  710 reviews

Sophomore: My college experience has been a good one for the most part. My professors have all been nice and understanding. Just like any other college student I’ve had my times where I’ve struggled mainly due to mental illness and other personal issues. The work can be a bit much at times. I think that has to do with the fact that I decided to take 4-6 classes for the last few semesters. The school offers a lot of help for it’s students and I am so grateful for that. They have a pantry, financial help, a gym, mental health assistance, and more. It’s such a great college overall. I would definitely recommend it for first Gen college students like myself. If you go to school In person, you’ll get to enjoy the nature scenery you could take a walk in between classes to clear your mind. Although I go to school online I do visit the campus a lot. The campus itself is super big especially for a community college. Everyone is friendly and helpful. So they’ll have no problem showing you around!... Read 710 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,676

• SAT range —

• Malta, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  234 reviews

Freshman: Kish seems to be a very nice school to get around and see if on what you are trying to get into. If you are just doing a 2 year or wanting to transfer they seem to know what to do! It helps that it isn’t such and huge place and people are please to help you navigate if you are lost. You won’t feel alone when walking around and you get to meet more people that are of all age groups. I’m glad I stuck around town and hope you guys enjoy the same if you go!... Read 234 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,031

• SAT range —