1. University of Chicago
Overview
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Founded in 1890, the University of Chicago is a private research university renowned for its rigorous academic programs, particularly in economics, law, political science, and philosophy. The university is home to numerous Nobel laureates and has a global reputation for fostering intellectual inquiry and critical thinking. The Chicago School of Economics and the university’s contributions to social sciences are particularly well-known.
The university’s urban campus in Hyde Park offers students access to Chicago’s rich cultural and business scene.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #6 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 17,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 6%
- Average SAT Score: 1500-1570
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- UChicago Maroons Athletics
- Debate Society and Model UN
- Political and social activism clubs
- Arts and theatre groups
- Research and innovation centers
Famous Alumni
- Milton Friedman – Nobel Prize-winning economist
- Bernie Sanders – U.S. Senator
- Carl Sagan – Astronomer and author
- David Axelrod – Political consultant
- Kurt Vonnegut – Author
Top Employers
- Goldman Sachs
- McKinsey & Company
- University of Chicago Hospitals
- JPMorgan Chase
2. Northwestern University
Overview
Location: Evanston, Illinois
Founded in 1851, Northwestern University is a private research university known for its top-ranked programs in journalism, law, business, and engineering. The university is located just outside of Chicago in the town of Evanston, providing students with access to both a suburban campus environment and the resources of a major city. Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism and Kellogg School of Management are particularly renowned.
Northwestern is also known for its strong research programs and interdisciplinary studies.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #9 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 23,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Average SAT Score: 1430-1540
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Northwestern Wildcats Athletics
- The Daily Northwestern (student newspaper)
- Greek life
- Performing arts and theatre productions
- Research and entrepreneurship clubs
Famous Alumni
- Stephen Colbert – Comedian and TV host
- Julia Louis-Dreyfus – Actress
- George R.R. Martin – Author of Game of Thrones
- Rahm Emanuel – Former Mayor of Chicago
- Megan Twohey – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
Top Employers
- Accenture
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Northwestern Medicine
- Deloitte
3. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
Overview
Location: Urbana-Champaign, Illinois
Established in 1867, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a flagship public research university known for its top-tier engineering, computer science, and business programs. UIUC is a leader in innovation, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. It consistently ranks among the top public universities in the U.S. for research and development.
UIUC’s sprawling campus offers a vibrant student life and access to cutting-edge research facilities.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #41 National Universities
- Number of Students: Over 52,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Average SAT Score: 1300-1490
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Fighting Illini Athletics
- Engineering and tech clubs
- Research and innovation programs
- Greek life
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
Famous Alumni
- Marc Andreessen – Co-founder of Netscape
- Larry Ellison – Co-founder of Oracle
- Nick Offerman – Actor
- Roger Ebert – Film critic
- Max Levchin – Co-founder of PayPal
Top Employers
- Caterpillar Inc.
- Boeing
- Microsoft
- State Farm Insurance
4. Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech)
Overview
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Founded in 1890, the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) is a private research university with a focus on engineering, technology, architecture, and business. The university is known for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning and innovation, making it a hub for aspiring engineers and architects. Illinois Tech’s close connection to Chicago’s industries offers students internship and career opportunities.
The university is also home to the highly regarded Armour College of Engineering and the College of Architecture.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #127 National Universities
- Number of Students: Approximately 7,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
- Average SAT Score: 1220-1410
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Illinois Tech Scarlet Hawks Athletics
- Engineering and robotics clubs
- Architecture and design organizations
- Business and entrepreneurship groups
- Greek life
Famous Alumni
- Martin Cooper – Inventor of the mobile phone
- John Calamos – CEO of Calamos Investments
- James Roche – Former CEO of General Motors
- Susan Solomon – Atmospheric chemist and climate change expert
- Ed Kaplan – Co-founder of Zebra Technologies
Top Employers
- Motorola Solutions
- Caterpillar Inc.
- Boeing
- Ford Motor Company
5. Loyola University Chicago
Overview
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Founded in 1870, Loyola University Chicago is a private Jesuit university known for its strong emphasis on ethics, social justice, and leadership. Loyola’s programs in law, healthcare, business, and the liberal arts are highly respected. The university’s flagship Stritch School of Medicine and Quinlan School of Business have earned national recognition. Loyola’s campus in downtown Chicago offers students access to major industries and cultural experiences.
Loyola is also known for its strong community service programs, reflecting its Jesuit values.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #115 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 17,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Average SAT Score: 1130-1330
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Loyola Ramblers Athletics
- Community service and social justice clubs
- Greek life
- Healthcare and nursing organizations
- Performing arts and cultural groups
Famous Alumni
- Dan Shulman – ESPN sportscaster
- William M. Daley – Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
- Bob Newhart – Comedian and actor
- Jenny McCarthy – Actress and TV personality
- Mae Jemison – NASA astronaut
Top Employers
- Loyola University Health System
- Northwestern Medicine
- Advocate Health Care
- JPMorgan Chase
- Deloitte
6. DePaul University
Overview
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Founded in 1898, DePaul University is the largest Catholic university in the U.S. and is known for its strong programs in business, law, performing arts, and communications. Located in the heart of Chicago, DePaul offers students unparalleled access to internships, networking, and career opportunities in one of the country’s largest cities. The university is particularly well-regarded for its Driehaus College of Business and College of Law.
DePaul is also known for its commitment to diversity and social responsibility, providing a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #137 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 22,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Average SAT Score: 1090-1290
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- DePaul Blue Demons Athletics
- Performing arts and theatre groups
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Greek life
- Community service and volunteer organizations
Famous Alumni
- Richard M. Daley – Former Mayor of Chicago
- Gillian Anderson – Actress
- Joe Mantegna – Actor
- George Perle – Pulitzer Prize-winning composer
- Monique Coleman – Actress (High School Musical)
Top Employers
- Walgreens
- Northern Trust
- JPMorgan Chase
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois
- NBCUniversal
7. Illinois State University
Overview
Location: Normal, Illinois
Founded in 1857, Illinois State University (ISU) is the oldest public university in Illinois and is known for its strong teacher education programs. In addition to education, ISU has well-regarded programs in business, criminal justice, and information technology. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, offering students numerous opportunities for internships and professional development.
Illinois State’s campus provides a traditional college experience with a focus on preparing students for careers in public service, business, and technology.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #219 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 21,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1220
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Redbirds Athletics
- Education and teaching organizations
- Business and marketing clubs
- Greek life
- Community service and volunteer programs
Famous Alumni
- John Malkovich – Actor
- Gary Sinise – Actor and philanthropist
- Laurie Metcalf – Actress
- Jane Lynch – Actress
- Steve Fisher – College basketball coach
Top Employers
- State Farm Insurance
- Caterpillar Inc.
- Illinois State University
- Advocate Health Care
- COUNTRY Financial
8. Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU)
Overview
Location: Carbondale, Illinois
Established in 1869, Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU) is a public research university known for its programs in aviation, engineering, law, and business. SIU has a strong focus on research, particularly in the fields of environmental science, energy, and materials engineering. The university’s Morris Library is one of the largest research libraries in the region, supporting its robust academic programs.
SIU’s scenic campus in Southern Illinois offers a rich blend of academic, cultural, and outdoor experiences.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #263 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 11,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Average SAT Score: 990-1200
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Salukis Athletics
- Aviation and flight clubs
- Greek life
- Outdoor and environmental clubs
- Research and innovation programs
Famous Alumni
- Jim Belushi – Actor
- Dick Gregory – Comedian and civil rights activist
- Walt Frazier – NBA Hall of Famer
- Dennis Franz – Actor
- Randy Daniels – Former Secretary of State of New York
Top Employers
- The Boeing Company
- Caterpillar Inc.
- Southern Illinois Healthcare
- John A. Logan College
- NASA
9. Bradley University
Overview
Location: Peoria, Illinois
Founded in 1897, Bradley University is a private university known for its strong business, engineering, and health sciences programs. Bradley offers a personalized education experience, with small class sizes and a focus on experiential learning. The university is especially known for its Foster College of Business and its engineering programs, both of which have strong ties to the local business community.
Bradley’s location in Peoria, a mid-sized city, allows students access to internships and career opportunities in various industries.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #166 National Universities
- Number of Students: About 5,400
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Average SAT Score: 1120-1290
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Bradley Braves Athletics
- Greek life
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Engineering and technology organizations
- Performing arts and music groups
Famous Alumni
- Neil Flynn – Actor
- Charley Steiner – Sportscaster
- Jerry Krause – Former GM of the Chicago Bulls
- Ray LaHood – Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation
- Herb Stein – Economist
Top Employers
- Caterpillar Inc.
- OSF Healthcare
- State Farm Insurance
- Bradley University
- Peoria Public Schools
10. Northern Illinois University (NIU)
Overview
Location: DeKalb, Illinois
Established in 1895, Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a public research university known for its programs in education, business, law, and engineering. NIU offers students a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences. The university has strong ties to industries in the Chicago area, providing students with numerous internship and career opportunities.
NIU’s campus in DeKalb offers a close-knit community and access to Chicago’s business and cultural resources.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #299-391 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 16,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Average SAT Score: 950-1160
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Huskies Athletics
- Business and marketing clubs
- Greek life
- Engineering and technology organizations
- Volunteer and community service programs
Famous Alumni
- Joan Allen – Actress
- Robert Zemeckis – Film director (Forrest Gump)
- Mike Royko – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
- Justin Mentell – Actor
- George Bork – College Football Hall of Famer
Top Employers
- Caterpillar Inc.
- Northern Illinois University
- Northwestern Medicine
- Discover Financial Services
- Illinois Tool Works