Top 3 Information Technology Programs in Illinois 2025
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Top-ranked IT program with strong systems administration focus and 95% job placement rate within 6 months
DePaul University
Chicago-based program with extensive industry partnerships and internship opportunities at major corporations
Illinois Institute of Technology
Technical focus with small class sizes and cutting-edge cybersecurity and cloud computing specializations
- 1.Illinois has 35+ accredited information technology bachelor's programs across public universities, community colleges, and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ranks #1 in Illinois with 85% graduation rate and strong industry connections
- 3.In-state tuition at public universities averages $17,000 annually—significantly lower than private alternatives
- 4.Illinois IT professionals earn median $92,340 annually, with Chicago metro area offering highest salaries at $98,750 (BLS Illinois 2024)
- 5.Major employers include Abbott, Boeing, Caterpillar, McDonald's, and growing fintech sector in Chicago
Information Technology Education in Illinois
Illinois offers a robust selection of information technology programs, from world-renowned research universities to practical, career-focused institutions. The state's strategic location and strong business presence, particularly in Chicago, create excellent internship and job opportunities for IT graduates.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national IT bachelor's rankings. Students seeking affordable options should review our most affordable IT programs guide. Career-focused students can explore our IT career salary guides and technical certifications that complement degree programs.
Illinois's IT education landscape benefits from proximity to major corporations and a growing tech sector. Chicago serves as a major hub for fintech, healthcare technology, and enterprise software development, providing numerous internship and career opportunities for graduates.
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Illinois May 2024, IBHE 2024
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Class size and accessibility to professors
Illinois-specific salaries and job placement rates
Industry partnerships and accreditation status
Illinois Information Technology Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign | Public | $17,572 | 85% | 20:1 | 94.2 |
| 2 | DePaul University | Chicago | Private | $42,449 | 82% | 15:1 | 91.8 |
| 3 | Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago | Private | $54,720 | 79% | 13:1 | 89.5 |
| 4 | University of Illinois Chicago | Chicago | Public | $15,996 | 76% | 18:1 | 87.3 |
| 5 | Northern Illinois University | DeKalb | Public | $12,950 | 72% | 16:1 | 85.1 |
| 6 | Bradley University | Peoria | Private | $38,030 | 78% | 11:1 | 83.7 |
| 7 | Southern Illinois University | Carbondale | Public | $15,096 | 68% | 14:1 | 82.4 |
| 8 | Illinois State University | Normal | Public | $15,256 | 74% | 19:1 | 81.2 |
| 9 | Western Illinois University | Macomb | Public | $12,660 | 65% | 15:1 | 79.8 |
| 10 | Eastern Illinois University | Charleston | Public | $12,450 | 67% | 14:1 | 78.5 |
| 11 | Loyola University Chicago | Chicago | Private | $49,170 | 81% | 14:1 | 77.9 |
| 12 | Roosevelt University | Chicago | Private | $34,390 | 58% | 10:1 | 76.3 |
| 13 | Lewis University | Romeoville | Private | $35,850 | 71% | 13:1 | 75.1 |
| 14 | Benedictine University | Lisle | Private | $38,890 | 69% | 11:1 | 73.8 |
| 15 | Chicago State University | Chicago | Public | $11,062 | 43% | 10:1 | 72.6 |
| 16 | Governors State University | University Park | Public | $12,646 | 52% | 12:1 | 71.4 |
| 17 | Northeastern Illinois University | Chicago | Public | $12,950 | 48% | 13:1 | 70.2 |
| 18 | University of St. Francis | Joliet | Private | $36,780 | 64% | 12:1 | 69.7 |
| 19 | Olivet Nazarene University | Bourbonnais | Private | $38,140 | 73% | 17:1 | 68.9 |
| 20 | Aurora University | Aurora | Private | $27,280 | 71% | 17:1 | 67.5 |
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL • University
Program Highlights
- • 85% graduation rate with strong academic support services
- • Average starting salary of $78,000 for recent graduates
- • 20:1 student-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
- • ABET accredited program meeting industry standards
Program Strengths
- Comprehensive curriculum covering systems administration, network security, and database management
- Access to state-of-the-art computing labs and enterprise-grade equipment
- Strong industry partnerships with major tech companies for internships and co-ops
- Research opportunities in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics
- 95% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
Why Ranked #1
UIUC's Information Technology program combines rigorous computer science fundamentals with practical systems administration and network management skills. The program's strong industry connections and research opportunities place it at the top of Illinois IT education.
DePaul University
Chicago, IL • University
Program Highlights
- • 82% graduation rate with dedicated student success programs
- • 15:1 student-faculty ratio enabling close mentorship
- • Active partnerships with IBM, Accenture, and other tech leaders
- • Modern facilities in downtown Chicago's technology corridor
Program Strengths
- Chicago-based program with direct access to major corporations and startups
- Industry-focused curriculum with real-world project experiences
- Strong emphasis on cybersecurity and cloud computing technologies
- Extensive alumni network throughout Illinois and nationally
- Flexible scheduling options including evening and weekend classes
Why Ranked #2
DePaul's School of Computing and Digital Media offers a comprehensive IT program with strong ties to Chicago's business community. The urban location provides exceptional internship and networking opportunities.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IL • University
Program Highlights
- • 79% graduation rate with comprehensive academic support
- • 13:1 student-faculty ratio among the best in the state
- • Average mid-career salary exceeds $95,000
- • Located in Chicago's growing technology and innovation district
Program Strengths
- Technical curriculum with management and leadership components
- Small class sizes ensuring individualized attention and mentorship
- Cutting-edge research in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data science
- Strong co-op program with paid work experiences at leading companies
- Emphasis on emerging technologies like cloud computing and IoT
Why Ranked #3
IIT's Information Technology and Management program uniquely combines technical IT skills with business acumen, preparing graduates for leadership roles in technology organizations.
Illinois University Systems for IT Education
Illinois offers IT education through several major university systems, each with distinct advantages for prospective students.
The University of Illinois System includes three campuses offering IT programs. UIUC provides the flagship experience with top-tier research opportunities, while UIC offers urban advantages in Chicago's technology sector. Both provide excellent value for in-state students with strong career outcomes.
Illinois public universities, including Northern Illinois University, Illinois State University, and Southern Illinois University, offer affordable IT education with practical, career-focused curricula. These institutions typically maintain smaller class sizes and strong regional industry connections.
Private institutions like DePaul University and IIT provide alternative pathways with unique specializations. DePaul excels in industry partnerships and urban immersion, while IIT focuses on research and technical depth. Students should also explore online IT degree options for additional flexibility.
Career Paths
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks, servers, and IT infrastructure for organizations across Illinois's diverse industries.
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Design, install, and support computer networks for businesses, with strong demand in Chicago's financial and healthcare sectors.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational data and systems from cyber threats, with growing opportunities in Illinois's banking and healthcare industries.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1243Design and manage database systems for large corporations, with particular demand from Chicago's Fortune 500 companies.
IT Support Specialist
SOC 15-1232Provide technical support and troubleshooting services, offering entry-level opportunities across various Illinois industries.
IT Programs by State - Compare Your Options
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Pennsylvania
Ohio
Michigan
Georgia
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Average In-State Tuition | $14,500 | $39,200 |
| Average Class Size | 25-35 students | 15-25 students |
| Industry Connections | Regional partnerships | National networks |
| Research Opportunities | Limited undergraduate | Extensive at all levels |
| Financial Aid | State grants available | Merit scholarships |
| Career Services | Regional job placement | National placement |
| Total Cost (4 years) | $60,000-$80,000 | $140,000-$200,000 |
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to Chicago's growing tech sector and major corporations
- Affordable in-state tuition at respected public universities
- Strong industry connections in healthcare technology, fintech, and enterprise software
- Proximity to major employers like Abbott, Boeing, Caterpillar, and McDonald's headquarters
- Growing startup ecosystem with increasing venture capital investment
- Higher overall tech salaries (consider California or Washington)
- More extensive tech ecosystem (Silicon Valley, Seattle, Austin)
- Warmer climate year-round (Texas, Florida, California)
- More venture capital funding and startup opportunities (California, New York)
- Lower cost of living outside major metropolitan areas
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois IT Programs
Related Information Technology Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, tuition, and enrollment data for all accredited institutions
State-specific salary and employment data for IT occupations
State agency data on program accreditation and institutional quality measures
Comprehensive database of college and university information
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.