Illinois Colleges Offer Something for Everyone

Illinois offers a unique collegiate experience in a wholesome, Midwestern environment. Illinois colleges and universities combine technology, facilities, and qualified instructors to immerse you in a culture of learning.

The state of Illinois boasts a diverse system of 9 public universities at 12 campuses, 48 community colleges, 97 independent not-for-profit colleges and universities, and 35 independent for-profit institutions. The Illinois Board reports that Illinois has the third largest community college system in the nation.

Another quality feature of Illinois colleges is the regard the state's employers have for its graduates. According to the Illinois Community College Board, more than 80 percent of Illinois employers have hired a community college student in the last decade. Also, nearly 30 percent of Illinois employees have completed a credit course at a community college in that same time period.

Illinois Universities: Home to a Diverse Student Population

One benefit you'll find at colleges in Illinois is diversity. Study Illinois reports that Illinois colleges accept more than 25,000 international students every year. Here are some other notable enrollment statistics cited by the Illinois Board of Higher Education:

• Enrollments at public universities increased by 1.2 percent in fall 2009 to 204,469
• Community college enrollments increased 6.4 percent to 380,025
• The number of students at private institutions increased 3.1 percent in the nonprofit sector, to 231,379 Enrollment at proprietary institutions grew by 1.4 percent, to 77,032
• There were 8,936 Illinois students enrolled in out-of-state institutions with operations in Illinois

Cost of Attending Illinois Universities

You'll discover that colleges in Illinois are in-line with the national averages with respect to tuition, room, board, and fees. The College Zone, a partner of the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, reports the following average tuition and fees for Illinois colleges and universities:

• Public community college: $14,637
• Public four-year college: $20,339
• Private four-year college: $40,476

The average full-time college student pays only $2,521 per year in tuition and fees for training in over 300 different careers. Financial aid opportunities are available for you to use at colleges in Illinois based on need and academic merit.

Prospects for Graduates of Illinois Colleges

The U.S. Census Bureau reveals the state's 2009 population estimate at 6,593,587--fifteenth in the nation--and the state's major city, Chicago, is a cultural and business hub in the Midwest. Illinois' main industries include biotechnology, health care, finance and tourism. Median income in the state was $65,401 in 2008. Outside of class, students can enjoy a rich cultural scene that features a range of professional sporting events and a thriving nightlife.

Kelli Smith writes about colleges and universities, community colleges, and online schools. Find Illinois Colleges at CollegesandUniversities.org.

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