2024 Best Colleges with Early Childhood Education Degrees in the Chicago Area

• 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 3.66 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  1,074 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

• 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 —

• 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

• Grayslake, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,059 reviews

Sophomore: A lot of great Professors and resources, but the college success seminar that's mandatory is not very helpful, and the advisors are overworked. Most of the students here are kind and the Grayslake Campus is pretty nice. They got new chairs this past year and they're great! There are a lot of places that could be added onto the tour that they do, because I remember going on one and I didn't know that they had study rooms and music practice rooms until my 4th semester here.... Read 1,059 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,486

• 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 —

• Hammond, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  1,515 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 1,515 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $8,472

• SAT range 990-1190

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  546 reviews

Freshman: It is a pretty great school. Especially since I will be taking Culinary. I enjoyed the amount of dedication the teachers provided in order to ensure my education and learning is pursued. Therefore, I believe that this school was my best selection. Since transferring, I enjoyed being in this school especially the scenery of being in downtown Chicago. Additionally, the major I am pursuing is in Culinary arts. I enjoy how the teachers help especially since they have 10+ year experience so I can become a great chef when I get older. Great school!... Read 546 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $14,665

• SAT range —

• 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

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.32 out of 5  646 reviews

Junior: So far my experience at Chicago State University has been a positive experience for the most part. The university is a very good place to learning and growing. The university is very well established and has been very helpful to the students, staff and community. It has been a great opportunity for me to learn and support my community through the process of learning and building relationships with students and staff members. I’m excited about my future as a student at the university. I’m in the undergrad program for Early Childhood Education. The program is an excellent opportunity to learn about how you can help young children learn, grow and improve their skills. The Early Childhood Education department is also providing educational resources to help me with the development process of learning and teaching young children. The department staff are very supportive and helpful to all students in the program.... Read 646 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 48%

• Net price $4,846

• SAT range 750-1030

• Glen Ellyn, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,690 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, the college is great! I was terrified to go to college but I've been fortunate to have good professors and a welcoming environment that made the transition easier! I truly wish they would make it a 4-year school considering its size and creditability. The only complaint I would have is with the cashier and financial aid offices, as they are not very helpful and tend to make you run around in circles to get any questions answered.... Read 1,690 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,440

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,005 reviews

Junior: But what can I say everything at Roosevelt University seems to be everything I've been looking for I was a prior student at Robert Morris University graduated with my associates and felt like I had everything figured out. After doing some soul searching and finding the experiences I needed in my life to continue with college I came across Roosevelt University and read everything about what they offer and what they stand for and I felt like it was the place to be. This may be the first review but I would write another one once I'm done with my classes and my degree. As for now I say go Roosevelt University!... Read 1,005 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $23,964

• SAT range 860-1120

• 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

• University Park, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  399 reviews

Freshman: After going to open house at Governors State I've decided to make this my college of choice. The student to teacher loyalty is something that I'm getting to know, even those who take online courses are treated so fairly. Their faculty is very accommodating and the campus is very modern. Since starting summer school there I've had a blast and I can't wait to begin my journey there this fall. Go Jaguars!... Read 399 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $9,943

• SAT range 830-1060

• River Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  746 reviews

Senior: I like that the professors engage the whole class to participate and make sure the students aren't awkward and not talking to each other. I previously went to UIC and when we did group work we would not talk to each other and the professors would not do anything. At Dominican University they allow you to grow and expand your wings! What I would like to see change is allowing scholarships for European immigrant families, I come from a European family and it is a struggle to afford such expensive tuition. Especially when you are taking 22 credit hours and are 4 credit hours at an overload which is 5 thousand dollars extra and they give you no help. European families also struggle yet universities do not see that because many workers have told me that since I am White there is nothing they can do :(... Read 746 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $18,476

• SAT range 910-1160

• Chicago, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  703 reviews

Sophomore: Harold Washington is really great! My professors have been awesome and the education is pretty quality, not to mention the school has so much free help. City Colleges of Chicago has campuses all over the city, but I chose Harold Washington for its primo downtown location. You can have lunch by the river and hang around downtown in between classes. It’s also easy to get to with public transportation!... Read 703 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,068

• SAT range —

• Cicero, IL•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  228 reviews

Sophomore: Morton College is a diverse college that gives their students multiple opportunities for success. They do their best to support the students, even outside the classroom. They are always trying to better their academics, athletics, and overall community. The only thing I would say is that scheduling classes and the financial aid department isn’t the bes.t... Read 228 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,382

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  965 reviews

Freshman: This university is very welcoming to all races and religions, and even sexual orientations. Saint Xavier University also provides an abundance of resources to help students with their college experience, whether that be education wise or health wise. The environment is very comforting and safe because of the on-campus security they provide. Also, this university offers a lot of great activities and student led organizations in order to further make students feel involved and included! While some of my experience with some of my professors haven't always been the easiest, overall this is a good university.... Read 965 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $13,419

• SAT range 950-1120

• 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

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  71 reviews

Sophomore: St. Augustine has adopted a hybrid environment. Students have the flexibility of attending classes online or in person. The institution and professors make it very easy so that students can transition from one setting to another at any given time. Even if you chose to attend classes primarily remote, the institution does a wonderful job at informing & including all students in campus events / culture. The coursework is challenging but individual professors are patient and compassionate and will provide additional assistance when needed. Additionally, the institution provides many different tutoring options. Counselors are very helpful and informative when it comes to picking schedules and provide you with updated study plans each each & at any point upon request. Financial aid officers do a wonderful job at explaining all of your aid options or providing payment plans when needed.... Read 71 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $15,337

• SAT range —

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,764 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 2,764 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $25,262

• SAT range —