Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in Illinois 2025
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
311 Computer Programming graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
Northwestern University
127 Computer Programming graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
University of Illinois Chicago
337 Computer Programming graduates annually, 88% graduation rate
- 1.Illinois has 20+ accredited computer programming bachelor's programs across state universities and private institutions
- 2.University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers top-5 national CS education at $17,572 in-state tuition
- 3.Illinois software developers earn median $92,580 annually, with Chicago metro reaching $105,000+ (BLS OEWS Illinois 2024)
- 4.Chicago tech sector employs 180,000+ technology workers across 2,000+ companies including Boeing, Abbott, and McDonald's
- 5.Illinois offers strong pathways from community colleges through the Illinois Articulation Initiative transfer system
Computer Programming Education Landscape in Illinois
Illinois offers diverse computer programming education options, from the world-renowned University of Illinois system to strong regional universities and community college pathways. The state's programming programs benefit from proximity to Chicago's thriving tech ecosystem, which includes major corporations like Boeing, Abbott Labs, and McDonald's alongside a growing startup scene.
For broader program comparisons, explore our national computer programming rankings. Students considering costs should review our most affordable programming degrees guide. Career-focused learners can examine our software engineer salary guide for Illinois-specific compensation data and our technical interview preparation roadmap for job readiness.
Illinois also offers excellent alternative pathways through software engineering bootcamps and cloud computing certifications for students seeking faster entry into the tech workforce.
Illinois Computer Programming Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 87.1 |
| 2 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $64,887 | 90% | — | 82.1 |
| 3 | University of Illinois Chicago | Chicago, IL | Public | $12,656 | 88% | — | 80.5 |
| 4 | University of Chicago | Chicago, IL | Private | $63,801 | — | — | 74.5 |
| 5 | Lewis University | Romeoville, IL | Private | $37,592 | 99% | — | 70.3 |
| 6 | Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL | Private | $49,607 | 89% | — | 69.5 |
| 7 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | 67.2 |
| 8 | Northern Illinois University | Dekalb, IL | Public | $9,792 | 84% | — | 65.7 |
| 9 | Northeastern Illinois University | Chicago, IL | Public | $10,343 | — | — | 56 |
| 10 | Governors State University | University Park, IL | Public | $7,872 | 80% | — | 55 |
| 11 | Illinois Wesleyan University | Bloomington, IL | Private | $55,500 | 86% | — | 54.3 |
| 12 | Chicago State University | Chicago, IL | Public | $8,040 | 82% | — | 53.5 |
| 13 | Illinois State University | Normal, IL | Public | $11,000 | 81% | — | 52.8 |
| 14 | Aurora University | Aurora, IL | Private | $28,000 | 97% | — | 52.1 |
| 15 | Rockford University | Rockford, IL | Private | $36,500 | 79% | — | 50.5 |
| 16 | Lake Forest College | Lake Forest, IL | Private | $53,300 | 84% | — | 50.3 |
| 17 | University of St Francis | Joliet, IL | Private | $37,000 | 96% | — | 49.5 |
| 18 | University of Illinois Springfield | Springfield, IL | Public | $9,865 | — | — | 49 |
| 19 | Saint Xavier University | Chicago, IL | Private | $35,680 | 80% | — | 48.8 |
| 20 | Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | Carbondale, IL | Public | $9,638 | 87% | — | 48.4 |
Showing 1–20 of 40
Top 5 Computer Programming Programs in Illinois: Side-by-Side
| School | UIUC | Northwestern | U of Illinois Chicago | U of Chicago | Governors State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $14,768 | $64,887 | $12,656 | $63,801 | $7,872 |
| Graduation Rate | 90% | 90% | 88% | N/A% | 80% |
| Annual Graduates | 840 | 127 | 337 | 157 | 144 |
| Acceptance Rate | 44% | 7% | 79% | 5% | N/A |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 88.5/100 | 73.8/100 | 67.1/100 | 65.3/100 | 63.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Programming in Illinois
Illinois offers 40 bachelor's-level computer programming programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, University of Illinois Chicago. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $79,240 in the Illinois market.
A bachelor's in computer programming typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs in Illinois
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UIUC | $14,768 | 90% | 311 | 87.1 |
| #2 Northwestern | $64,887 | 90% | 127 | 73.8 |
| #3 U of Illinois Chicago | $12,656 | 88% | 337 | 67.1 |
Top Computer Programming Schools for Master's Degrees in Illinois
For graduate study, Illinois offers 18 master's-level computer programming programs. Leading institutions include University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, University of Chicago. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Illinois reaching $147,160 or more.
Top 3 Computer Programming Master's Programs in Illinois
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UIUC | $14,768 | 90% | 840 | 88.5 |
| #2 Northwestern | $64,887 | 90% | 181 | 76.6 |
| #3 U of Chicago | $63,801 | N/A% | 297 | 71.2 |
Most Affordable Computer Programming Colleges in Illinois
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming programs in Illinois are at Governors State University ($7,872/year), Chicago State University ($8,040/year), Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville ($8,846/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Illinois's competitive tech salaries.
At Governors State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $31,488 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $79,240, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.
Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs in Illinois (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Governors State | $7,872 | $31,488 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Chicago State | $8,040 | $32,160 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 Southern Illinois... | $8,846 | $35,384 | 0.8 years | Public |
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,768 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 840 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 44%
- • Ranking Score: 88.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 840 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 88.5 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (840 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (44% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers extensive blended CS degrees with 16 different combination options, multiple graduate pathways including online MCS programs, and active research opportunities through summer programs and industry partnerships.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Three years of high school mathematics or MATH 112
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,887 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 127 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 7%
- • Ranking Score: 73.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 127 computer programming graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 73.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (127 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (7% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Northwestern's Computer Science program offers diverse specializations from artificial intelligence to distributed systems, with strong industry partnerships including Adobe Research and opportunities for undergraduate research through dedicated tracks and senior thesis options.
Program Details
- Credits: Twelve units of graduate-level credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,656 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 88% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 337 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 67.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- 337 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (88%), program size (337 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UIC Computer Science offers specialized concentrations in areas like Human-Centered Computing and Software Engineering, with guaranteed paid internships for qualifying students and access to 400+ hiring companies. The program features joint BS/MS acceleration options and dedicated career support through a specialized Engineering Career Center.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: 53% of graduates report starting salaries between $70,000 and $100,000+
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,801 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 157 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 5%
- • Ranking Score: 65.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 157 computer programming graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 65.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (157 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (5% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Chicago Computer Science program offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees with a comprehensive curriculum including core programming, systems, and theory courses. The program provides placement exams for advanced course placement and maintains strong career outcome tracking for graduates.
Program Details
- Internship Required
Governors State University
University Park, IL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,872 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 80% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 144 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 63.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 80% graduation rate
- 144 computer programming graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 63.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (80%), program size (144 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
GSU's Computer Science program offers a balance between theoretical and applied study, preparing students for positions as programmers, network professionals, database professionals, systems analysts, and software engineers. The curriculum prepares students for both industry careers and graduate work in computer science.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Applied Calculus
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.75
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications for various industries including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing
Web Developer
Create and maintain websites and web applications for businesses, government agencies, and organizations
Database Developer
Design and implement database systems to store and organize data for applications and business operations
Systems Analyst
Analyze computer systems and procedures to improve organizational efficiency and technology solutions
Bridge development and operations teams to improve software deployment and infrastructure management
Mobile App Developer
Develop applications for mobile devices and platforms including iOS and Android systems
Illinois University Systems and Programming Pathways
Illinois offers programming education through multiple university systems, each serving different student populations and career goals. The University of Illinois system provides research-intensive education with strong industry connections, while regional universities offer more personalized attention and practical skills focus.
The University of Illinois System includes three campuses offering computer science and programming degrees: Urbana-Champaign (flagship research university), Chicago (urban research university), and Springfield (smaller campus with undergraduate focus). Each campus provides different strengths, from UIUC's world-class CS research to UIC's industry partnerships in Chicago.
Private universities in Illinois, particularly in Chicago, offer smaller class sizes and personalized attention. Northwestern University and University of Chicago provide elite education with strong alumni networks, while schools like DePaul University and Illinois Institute of Technology offer more affordable private options with strong industry connections.
For students seeking alternative pathways, Illinois community colleges participate in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), providing guaranteed transfer pathways to four-year universities. Students can also explore software engineering bootcamps in Chicago or pursue cloud computing certifications for faster workforce entry.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Illinois
Computer Programming Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to top-tier CS education at UIUC with affordable in-state tuition
- Proximity to Chicago's growing tech ecosystem and job opportunities
- Strong university systems with good transfer pathways from community colleges
- Reasonable cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs
- Opportunities in diverse industries including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing technology
- Larger tech ecosystems like Silicon Valley or Seattle
- More startup opportunities and venture capital access
- Warmer climate year-round
- Higher concentration of tech companies and networking events
- Access to specialized tech bootcamps and accelerators
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Programming Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Programming degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer programming salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Programming Resources and Guides
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing enrollment, graduation rates, tuition, and institutional characteristics for all accredited postsecondary institutions
Official employment and wage statistics for computer occupations in Illinois, updated annually
State agency data on higher education programs, enrollment trends, and workforce outcomes
Graduate placement data and research funding information for computer science and engineering programs
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.