Many colleges and universities in Illinois offer affordable and convenient ways for you to earn a master’s degree, including partially and fully online programs in dozens of academic fields. If you’re ready to explore online master’s programs in Illinois, let this guide take you through the process step by step.
Author: Michael Hoffman, JD, MA
Expertise:
Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent SuccessEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Fields in Illinois
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
Read more - Accreditation Details
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - Program Types
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more
Inside Popular Illinois Universities with Online Master’s Degrees
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
UIUC offers 50+ online master’s degree programs across disciplines such as agriculture, business, education, engineering, and technology.
All online programs use the same faculty and curriculum as their on-campus counterparts, ensuring equal academic rigor and reputation. Students from Illinois and around the world enroll through Illinois Online, reflecting the university’s innovation and reach in distance learning.
Master of Science in Accounting (iMSA)
Duration: 18-36 months
Mode: 100% online (no campus visits)
Cost: $21,000-$27,000 total (depending on electives)
Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, transcripts, personal statement, résumé, two letters of reference; GMAT/GRE optional
DePaul University (Chicago)
DePaul University offers 30+ online master’s programs in fields such as business, education, IT, nursing, and global leadership. Specialized degrees like the MS in Game Programming and MS in Sport, Fitness, and Recreation Leadership highlight the range of degrees offered.
Students benefit from strong ties to Chicago’s business community, which provide networking and real-world learning opportunities. DePaul’s flexible format allows learners to study fully online or on campus, depending on their preferences.
Master of Science in Computer Science
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Mode: Fully online or on-campus
Cost: $955/credit ($45,800 total)
Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree (accredited), 2.5 GPA, transcripts; letters and résumé optional; TOEFL/IELTS required for non-native speakers
Northwestern University (Evanston/Chicago)
Northwestern University offers several professional master’s programs online through its School of Professional Studies (SPS). Areas of study include data science, global health, public policy, healthcare administration, information design, and sports administration.
All programs are fully accredited and taught by the same faculty as on-campus courses. Students enjoy small cohorts, flexible scheduling, and networking opportunities through a global online community.
Master of Science in Global Health (MSGH)
Duration: 2 years (part-time)
Mode: Fully online (asynchronous w/ cohort networking)
Cost: $3,310/course ($41,280 total)
Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, resume, letters of recommendation, official transcripts
Top Fields for Master’s Study in IL
Business Administration
Illinois is a major business hub, with 34 Fortune 500 companies based in Chicago alone. An MBA or management degree opens doors in finance, consulting, marketing, and leadership. Graduates often see strong ROI and advancement opportunities in corporations, startups, and nonprofits. Many Illinois schools now offer fully online MBA programs, allowing students to tap into Chicago’s business ecosystem from anywhere.
Healthcare & Nursing
Healthcare remains one of Illinois’s fastest-growing industries, anchored by major hospital systems like Northwestern Medicine and Advocate Health. Online master’s degrees in nursing, public health, and healthcare administration prepare students for advanced practitioner, managerial, and informatics roles. Programs such as UIC’s CCNE-accredited MSN for Non-RNs help professionals advance without leaving the workforce.
Computer Science & IT
Chicago’s tech sector continues to thrive, home to major employers like Google, Salesforce, and Discover. A master’s in computer science, data science, or IT provides expertise in software engineering, AI, and analytics. Graduates often earn competitive six-figure salaries, supported by programs such as UIUC’s Online Master of Computer Science, which can be completed in as little as one year.
Expert Insight
Within the CS and IT fields, cybersecurity has particularly high demand for master’s-education professionals. As a rapidly-growing industry with a major shortage of professionals, even new graduates can expect top starting salaries and solid job security. If you haven’t settled on a particular field of study, I highly recommend considering cybersecurity.
Education
Illinois values educational leadership, with many districts offering pay increases for advanced credentials. Online master’s programs in education and administration prepare teachers for roles such as principal, instructional coach, or curriculum specialist. With many schools facing leadership turnover, M.Ed. graduates are well-positioned for advancement while studying part-time.
Engineering & Applied Sciences
Illinois’s industrial strength spans manufacturing, transportation, and research. Master’s programs in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering help professionals move into R&D or management roles. Schools like UIUC and Illinois Tech offer highly ranked online and hybrid engineering degrees. Graduates gain advanced technical and leadership skills valued by employers such as Caterpillar and Argonne National Lab.
Accreditation & Online Master’s Programs
Accreditation ensures that your degree is legitimate and widely recognized. Most Illinois universities hold regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), confirming that they meet rigorous standards for academics and student support.
Program-specific accreditation also strengthen credibility:
- Business: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Nursing: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Always verify that your school is HLC-accredited and check for additional programmatic credentials in your field. Accreditation protects credit transfers, financial aid eligibility, and employer recognition.
Expert Insight
You may also consider universities with national accreditation, instead of regional, as long as the accrediting agency is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This is especially relevant if you’re looking at smaller institutions.
Types of Online Master’s Degrees in Illinois
Full-Time Programs
Full-time programs allow students to complete their degree in 12–18 months by taking a full course load each term. They offer immersive learning and faster graduation, but require significant time management.
Illinois Examples:
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale — MBA (General)
- University of Illinois Springfield — MS in Data Analytics
- Northern Illinois University — MS in Digital Marketing
Part-Time Programs
Part-time formats cater to working professionals balancing multiple responsibilities. Students typically take 1–2 courses per term, extending completion to 2–3 years. Flexible schedules and asynchronous classes are common.
Illinois Examples:
- Northwestern University — MS in Data Science
- DePaul University — MS in Cybersecurity
- Northern Illinois University — Master of Public Health
No-GRE Programs
Many Illinois universities waive GRE or GMAT scores, especially for experienced applicants or certain degrees like education or nursing. Admissions instead emphasize GPA, work history, and essays.
Illinois Examples:
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — MS in Recreation, Sport & Tourism
- Eastern Illinois University — MS in Biological Sciences (Online)
- Concordia University Chicago — MBA Online
Accelerated Programs
Accelerated pathways help students earn a master’s in as little as one year through condensed courses or dual-degree options. The pace is intensive but offers faster entry into higher-paying roles.
Illinois Examples:
- Northwestern University — Accelerated MS in Data Science
- Aurora University — Online MBA
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Online Master in Computer Science
Paying for Your Master’s in Illinois
Online master’s programs follow a per-credit tuition model. Public universities often offer flat e-tuition rates, while private schools charge one rate for all students. Beyond tuition, expect technology fees, textbooks, and online resources.
Financial aid can include federal student loans, scholarships, employer tuition assistance, or fellowships. Always check with your school’s financial aid office for the most current information.
Here are examples of current tuition costs for three online master’s programs in Illinois:
| School | Credits | Cost/Credit | Est. Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (iMBA) | 72 (quarter) | $363 | $26,136 |
| DePaul University (MS in Cybersecurity) | 48 | $955 | $45,840 |
| Southern Illinois University Carbondale (MBA General Program) | 33 | $540 | $17,820 |
Note: Tuition estimates above are for illustration; actual rates may change year to year. Always consult with the school for the latest fee amounts.
FAQs from Online Master’s Students in Illinois
Q: Are online master’s degrees from Illinois respected by employers?
A: Yes. Accredited Illinois programs carry the same weight as on-campus degrees. Employers focus on the skills and reputation of your institution, not the delivery format.
Q: Do I need to live in Illinois to enroll?
A: No. Most Illinois universities welcome out-of-state and international students. Some programs include local clinicals, but coursework is typically 100% online. Check residency-based tuition policies.
Q: What kind of support do online students receive in Illinois?
A: Illinois universities provide robust virtual support, including academic advising, virtual office hours, discussion boards, and career services such as online job fairs and alumni mentoring.
Q: How do hybrid master’s programs work?
A: Hybrid formats blend online coursework with occasional in-person sessions—such as weekend labs or orientation seminars—offering flexibility with added networking opportunities.
Q: Can online master’s students get financial aid?
A: Yes. Accredited online programs qualify for federal loans, scholarships, employer reimbursement, and VA benefits. Many schools also offer graduate fellowships and grants for online learners.