University campus in Illinois
Updated January 2026

Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois — 2026 Rankings

Explore 20 accredited database administration degree programs in Illinois. Compare schools by graduation rate, salary outcomes, and tuition—from Lake Land College to Northwestern University.

#1 ProgramNorthwestern
Avg Salary$113,200
Tuition From$7,139/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Top 3 ranked: Northwestern, U of Illinois Urbana-Cham..., U of Illinois Chicago

Based on graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $6,120 to $64,887/year

Lake Land College offers the most affordable option at $7,139/yr

IPEDS 2023

Degree levels: 4 associate's, 8 master's, 2 doctoral programs available in Illinois

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

9 Illinois programs offer online or hybrid formats

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2023

Illinois community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

4 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Salesforce, Google, Groupon, Grubhub

Tech hubs in Chicago and Naperville

Hakia Research 2026

Database Administration programs available near 113+ cities across Illinois

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$113,200
Is Database Administration in Illinois Worth It?
Yes. Database Administration degrees in Illinois deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $113,200 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $28,461/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

15 programs$113,200 median salary78% avg grad rate
15
Programs
$113,200
Median Salary
$31,356/yr
Avg Tuition
78%
Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

Illinois ranks among the nation's top destinations for database administration education, with 15 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 11 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Northwestern, U of Illinois Urbana-Cham..., U of Illinois Chicago, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Illinois database administration programs earn a median salary of $96,220—2% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Chicago, Naperville, Champaign metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Salesforce, Google, Groupon.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $9,865 to $64,887 annually, with an average of $31,356/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 78%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Illinois's leading technology employers. For students seeking database administration degrees in Illinois, these top-ranked database administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Show:

Earn your bachelor's in Database Administration

(Sponsored)

Loading programs...

🥇

Northwestern University

Private
Evanston, IL
$64,887
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad Rate
86.4
Score
Website
🥈

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Public
Champaign, IL
$14,768
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad Rate
81.4
Score
Website
🥉

University of Illinois Chicago

Public
Chicago, IL
$12,656
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
75.4
Score
Website
#4

DeVry University-Illinois

For-Profit
Lisle, IL
$14,392
Tuition/yr
23%
Grad Rate
71.1
Score
Website
#5

DePaul University

Private
Chicago, IL
$43,379
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad Rate
56.8
Score
Website
#6

Lewis University

Private
Romeoville, IL
$37,592
Tuition/yr
99%
Grad Rate
49.6
Score
Website
#7

McKendree University

Private
Lebanon, IL
$32,660
Tuition/yr
84%
Grad Rate
49.1
Score
Website
#8

Elmhurst University

Private
Elmhurst, IL
$41,258
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad Rate
49.0
Score
Website
#9

Quincy University

Private
Quincy, IL
$35,740
Tuition/yr
72%
Grad Rate
46.2
Score
Website
#10

Saint Xavier University

Private
Chicago, IL
$35,680
Tuition/yr
80%
Grad Rate
44.9
Score
Website

Complete Database Administration Degree Program Rankings in Illinois

Best Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Program Landscape Illinois offers **4 accredited** associate's degree programs in database administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Lake Land College**, **Triton College**, **South Suburban College**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in Illinois offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$8,767/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$62,260** in Illinois. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Illinois's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Chicago, Naperville, Champaign areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Salesforce, Google, Groupon hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among database administration schools in Illinois, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their database administration degrees in Illinois.

  1. #1. Lake Land College

    Hakia ranks Lake Land College as the #1 associate's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Mattoon, IL has annual tuition of $7,139. Ranking score: 44.7.

  2. #2. Triton College

    Hakia ranks Triton College as the #2 associate's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in River Grove, IL has annual tuition of $11,310. Ranking score: 43.5.

  3. #3. South Suburban College

    Hakia ranks South Suburban College as the #3 associate's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in South Holland, IL has annual tuition of $10,500. Ranking score: 41.9.

  4. #4. Southwestern Illinois College

    Hakia ranks Southwestern Illinois College as the #4 associate's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Belleville, IL has annual tuition of $6,120. Ranking score: 40.8.

Online Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Online Program Options Illinois's community colleges offer 3 online associate's database administration programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Triton College**, **South Suburban College**, **Southwestern Illinois Col...**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Illinois employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online associate's programs average **$9,310/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Illinois-based employers including Salesforce, Google, Groupon value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Chicago, Naperville, Champaign job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online database administration degrees in Illinois, these accredited database administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Triton College - River Grove, IL - Tuition: $11,310/year
  • South Suburban College - South Holland, IL - Tuition: $10,500/year
  • Southwestern Illinois College - Belleville, IL - Tuition: $6,120/year

Best Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Program Landscape Illinois ranks among the nation's top destinations for database administration education, with **15 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **3 public** and **11 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **Northwestern**, **U of Illinois Urbana-Cham...**, **U of Illinois Chicago**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from Illinois database administration programs earn a median salary of **$96,220**—2% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Chicago, Naperville, Champaign metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Salesforce, Google, Groupon. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$9,865** to **$64,887** annually, with an average of **$31,356/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **78%**, with the highest reaching **99%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Illinois's leading technology employers. For students seeking database administration degrees in Illinois, these top-ranked database administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. Northwestern University

    Hakia ranks Northwestern University as the #1 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Evanston, IL has annual tuition of $64,887 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 86.4.

  2. #2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #2 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Champaign, IL has annual tuition of $14,768 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 81.4.

  3. #3. University of Illinois Chicago

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Chicago as the #3 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $12,656 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.4.

  4. #4. DeVry University-Illinois

    Hakia ranks DeVry University-Illinois as the #4 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This for-profit institution in Lisle, IL has annual tuition of $14,392 and a 23% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.1.

  5. #5. DePaul University

    Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #5 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $43,379 and a 86% graduation rate. Ranking score: 56.8.

  6. #6. Lewis University

    Hakia ranks Lewis University as the #6 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Romeoville, IL has annual tuition of $37,592 and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 49.6.

  7. #7. McKendree University

    Hakia ranks McKendree University as the #7 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Lebanon, IL has annual tuition of $32,660 and a 84% graduation rate. Ranking score: 49.1.

  8. #8. Elmhurst University

    Hakia ranks Elmhurst University as the #8 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Elmhurst, IL has annual tuition of $41,258 and a 82% graduation rate. Ranking score: 49.0.

  9. #9. Quincy University

    Hakia ranks Quincy University as the #9 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Quincy, IL has annual tuition of $35,740 and a 72% graduation rate. Ranking score: 46.2.

  10. #10. Saint Xavier University

    Hakia ranks Saint Xavier University as the #10 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $35,680 and a 80% graduation rate. Ranking score: 44.9.

  11. #11. Bradley University

    Hakia ranks Bradley University as the #11 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Peoria, IL has annual tuition of $39,248. Ranking score: 42.5.

  12. #12. University of Illinois Springfield

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Springfield as the #12 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Springfield, IL has annual tuition of $9,865. Ranking score: 41.5.

  13. #13. Dominican University

    Hakia ranks Dominican University as the #13 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in River Forest, IL has annual tuition of $37,194 and a 68% graduation rate. Ranking score: 41.3.

  14. #14. Benedictine University

    Hakia ranks Benedictine University as the #14 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Lisle, IL has annual tuition of $31,028. Ranking score: 36.5.

  15. #15. Roosevelt University

    Hakia ranks Roosevelt University as the #15 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $20,000. Ranking score: 32.0.

Online Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Online Program Options 6 Illinois institutions offer bachelor's database administration degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **Northwestern**, **DePaul**, **Elmhurst**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Illinois employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online bachelor's programs average **$42,520/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Illinois-based employers including Salesforce, Google, Groupon value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Chicago, Naperville, Champaign job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online database administration degrees in Illinois, these accredited database administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Northwestern University - Evanston, IL - Tuition: $64,887/year
  • DePaul University - Chicago, IL - Tuition: $43,379/year
  • Elmhurst University - Elmhurst, IL - Tuition: $41,258/year
  • McKendree University - Lebanon, IL - Tuition: $32,660/year
  • Quincy University - Quincy, IL - Tuition: $35,740/year
  • Dominican University - River Forest, IL - Tuition: $37,194/year

Best Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Program Landscape Illinois offers **8** master's degree programs in database administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Illinois Urbana-Cham...**, **Northwestern**, **DePaul**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in Illinois earn a median salary of **$113,200**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Chicago, Naperville, Champaign creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Salesforce, Google, Groupon actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$35,775/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Illinois's database administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #1 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Champaign, IL has annual tuition of $14,768 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 91.0.

  2. #2. Northwestern University

    Hakia ranks Northwestern University as the #2 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Evanston, IL has annual tuition of $64,887 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.1.

  3. #3. DePaul University

    Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #3 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $43,379 and a 86% graduation rate. Ranking score: 78.9.

  4. #4. Lewis University

    Hakia ranks Lewis University as the #4 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Romeoville, IL has annual tuition of $37,592 and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 74.0.

  5. #5. University of Illinois Chicago

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Chicago as the #5 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $12,656 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 67.7.

  6. #6. University of Chicago

    Hakia ranks University of Chicago as the #6 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $63,801. Ranking score: 50.9.

  7. #7. University of Illinois Springfield

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Springfield as the #7 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Springfield, IL has annual tuition of $9,865. Ranking score: 48.5.

  8. #8. Bradley University

    Hakia ranks Bradley University as the #8 master's in database administration degree program in Illinois. This private institution in Peoria, IL has annual tuition of $39,248. Ranking score: 40.8.

Online Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Online Program Options Working professionals can advance their careers through 2 online master's database administration programs from Illinois universities, designed for flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Top-ranked online programs include **Northwestern**, **DePaul**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Illinois employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online master's programs average **$54,133/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Illinois-based employers including Salesforce, Google, Groupon value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Chicago, Naperville, Champaign job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **30-36 credit hours** in 18-24 months while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online database administration degrees in Illinois, these accredited database administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Northwestern University - Evanston, IL - Tuition: $64,887/year
  • DePaul University - Chicago, IL - Tuition: $43,379/year

Best Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

### Program Landscape Illinois is home to **2** doctoral programs in database administration, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **U of Illinois Urbana-Cham...**, **U of Illinois Chicago** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages. ### Career Outcomes Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Illinois PhD holders earning a median of **$141,500**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Chicago, Naperville, Champaign region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Salesforce, Google, Groupon. ### Costs & Value PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually. ### Curriculum & Specializations Research strengths across Illinois programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing database administration degrees in Illinois, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

  1. #1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #1 doctoral in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Champaign, IL has annual tuition of $14,768 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 57.9.

  2. #2. University of Illinois Chicago

    Hakia ranks University of Illinois Chicago as the #2 doctoral in database administration degree program in Illinois. This public institution in Chicago, IL has annual tuition of $12,656 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.9.

Database Administration Tuition in Illinois

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$28,461/year
Average out-of-state tuition$71,153/year
Community college tuition$7,115/year
4-year savings for residents$170,768
2+2 transfer pathway savings$42,692

Source: IPEDS 2023

Database Administration Financial Aid & Scholarships in Illinois

State Aid Programs

Illinois students pursuing database administration degrees have access to multiple financial aid sources including federal grants, state programs, and institutional scholarships. The Monetary Award Program (MAP) provides need-based grants for Illinois residents attending participating colleges and universities. Many technology companies in Illinois offer scholarships specifically for database and information technology students, recognizing the critical need for skilled professionals in these growing fields.

Key Programs & Amounts

Universities often provide merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students in STEM fields. The state's investment of $500 million in quantum technology development creates additional scholarship opportunities for students pursuing advanced database technologies (UChicago Quantum Tech Hub). Work-study programs and graduate assistantships provide additional funding while offering valuable hands-on experience in database administration and research.

Institutional Scholarships

Students should explore comprehensive resources through our financial aid guide to understand all available options. Federal Pell Grants, Illinois Student Assistance Commission programs, and institutional aid can significantly reduce education costs. Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing database administration credentials, creating pathways for working professionals to advance their careers while managing educational expenses.

Calculate Your Database Administration Degree ROI in Illinois

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a database administration degree in Illinois. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Database Administration Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a database administration degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+802%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,483,492

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$123,810

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,518,900

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Chicago, IL)$130,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.5%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Career Paths

Design and develop software applications and systems

Median Salary:$127,916

Analyze complex datasets and build predictive models

Median Salary:$106,408

Protect computer networks from cyber threats

Median Salary:$118,860

Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines

Median Salary:$125,652

Design and maintain cloud computing infrastructure

Median Salary:$122,256

Build and deploy machine learning models

Median Salary:$142,632
Database Administration Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Illinois metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Chicago$125K
Naperville$119K
Champaign$113K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Database Administration Jobs in Illinois: Top Employers Hiring

Find database administration jobs in Illinois. These major employers across Illinois metro areas are actively hiring database administration graduates. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Database Administration Jobs in Chicago

IL
~484 Open Positions

Chicago is a fintech and trading technology hub. CME Group and numerous trading firms drive demand for tech talent.

Nearby cities: Evanston, Oak Brook, Schaumburg, Naperville, Aurora, Downers Grove, Skokie

Google
Big Tech
Salesforce
Enterprise CRM
Microsoft
Big Tech
Groupon
E-commerce
Grubhub
Food Delivery
Sprout Social
Social Media SaaS
CME Group
Financial Services/Fintech
Morningstar
Financial Data/Fintech
Motorola Solutions
Communications Technology
Allstate
Insurance Technology
Relativity
Legal Tech
Avant
Fintech

How to Apply to Database Administration Programs in Illinois

1

Research Program Requirements

Review admission requirements for database administration programs at your target schools. Requirements vary by institution and degree level.

2

Prepare Application Materials

Gather transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for graduate), letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

3

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines.

4

Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Apply early for priority consideration. Early action/decision deadlines are typically October-November; regular deadlines December-January.

5

Complete Enrollment Steps

Accept your offer, submit enrollment deposit, complete orientation requirements, and register for classes.

Database Administration Transfer Pathways in Illinois

State Transfer System

Illinois maintains extensive transfer agreements between community colleges and four-year universities for database administration programs. The Illinois Articulation Initiative facilitates credit transfer for general education requirements, while specific articulation agreements ensure smooth transitions for technical coursework. Students can complete foundational computer science and mathematics requirements at community colleges before transferring to complete specialized database administration coursework at universities.

How Transfers Work

Major universities like Illinois Institute of Technology accept transfer students who meet academic standing requirements and demonstrate relevant coursework completion. Transfer students must maintain good academic standing with undergraduates requiring a 2.25 GPA minimum (Illinois Tech CPT Program). Many institutions offer transfer student orientations and dedicated advising to help students navigate program requirements and career planning effectively.

Why Study Database Administration in Illinois?

Industry & Workforce

Illinois offers exceptional career prospects for database administrators.

The state's tech sector has attracted nearly $1.5 billion in federal funding through initiatives like Innovate Illinois, creating substantial demand for data professionals (Brookings Chicago Tech Growth). Chicago's position as a major financial and technology hub drives consistent demand for database expertise across Fortune 500 companies and emerging startups.

Salary Outlook

The Bloch Quantum Tech Hub designation positions Illinois at the forefront of technological advancement, with $625 million in public and private investments committed to developing quantum technology solutions (UChicago Quantum Tech Hub). This initiative is projected to generate $60 billion in economic impact for the Chicago metro area over the next decade, creating unprecedented opportunities for database professionals to work with cutting-edge quantum computing applications.

Regional Tech Hubs

Illinois universities provide strong pathways into database administration careers through established industry partnerships. Students can explore comprehensive database administration programs that connect directly with local employers. The state's commitment to inclusive tech-driven growth ensures diverse career opportunities, while proximity to major tech hubs in neighboring states like Michigan and Ohio expands regional job prospects significantly.

Database Administration Job Market in Illinois

Employment Outlook

Illinois maintains a strong database administration job market concentrated in the Chicago metropolitan area. The state's participation in the EDA Regional Technology and Innovation Hub program has created increased demand for data professionals across 31 designated Tech Hubs nationwide (BLS OEWS Illinois). Major employment sectors include financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and the growing quantum technology sector, which received Governor Pritzker's historic $500 million proposed investment.

Salaries by Metro

Career fairs at institutions like Illinois Institute of Technology regularly feature employers from diverse industries seeking database talent (Illinois Tech Career Fairs). The Spring 2026 Career Fair scheduled for February 12 will connect students with companies across general industry groupings, providing networking opportunities with both established corporations and emerging tech startups. Virtual career fairs expand access to employers beyond geographic limitations.

High-Growth Sectors

The job market benefits from Illinois's strategic focus on becoming a global leader in critical technological sectors. Database administrators can pursue careers in traditional database management or specialize in emerging areas like quantum computing applications. Students interested in software developer roles often find complementary skills valuable, while those pursuing data scientist positions can leverage database expertise as a foundation for advanced analytics work.

Database Administration Curriculum & Specializations in Illinois

Core Requirements

Database administration curricula in Illinois emphasize both foundational database concepts and emerging technologies. Core coursework typically includes database design, SQL programming, data modeling, system administration, and security protocols. Programs increasingly incorporate cloud database management, given the growing demand for professionals skilled in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud platforms. Students learn to design, implement, and maintain database systems across various organizational contexts.

Degree Pathways

Advanced coursework often covers data warehousing, business intelligence, and big data technologies like Hadoop and Spark. Illinois's focus on quantum technology creates unique opportunities for students to explore quantum computing applications in database systems. Many programs require capstone projects that simulate real-world database challenges, allowing students to demonstrate competency in performance optimization, disaster recovery, and data integration across multiple platforms.

Specialization Tracks

Practical experience is integrated through internship requirements and co-op programs. Students pursuing best bachelors programs database administration benefit from hands-on laboratory work with industry-standard database management systems including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and PostgreSQL. Programming languages like Python, Java, and PowerShell are taught alongside database-specific scripting for automation and maintenance tasks.

Online vs On-Campus Database Administration Programs in Illinois

Online Program Growth

Online database administration programs offer flexibility for working professionals and students with geographic constraints, while on-campus programs provide direct access to laboratory facilities and face-to-face interaction with faculty. Illinois universities increasingly offer hybrid models that combine online coursework with periodic on-campus intensive sessions for hands-on database work. Virtual career fairs expand employer access beyond geographic limitations, connecting students with opportunities across multiple states and industries.

Accredited Online Options

On-campus programs typically provide better access to internship opportunities, research projects, and networking events like career fairs. Students can explore best online degrees database administration options that maintain academic rigor while offering scheduling flexibility. The choice between online and campus-based programs often depends on individual circumstances, career goals, and preferred learning styles, with both formats capable of preparing students for successful database administration careers.

Database Administration by City in Illinois

Chicago dominates Illinois's database administration job market, offering the highest concentration of opportunities across diverse industries. The city's designation as part of a federal Tech Hub brings significant advantages, with The Bloch Quantum Tech Hub projected to generate $60 billion in economic impact over the next decade (UChicago Quantum Tech Hub). Major financial institutions, healthcare systems, and technology companies maintain substantial database operations requiring skilled administrators.

Suburban Chicago areas including Schaumburg, Naperville, and Downers Grove host numerous corporate headquarters and technology centers. Downstate cities like Champaign-Urbana benefit from university research activities and agricultural technology companies requiring database expertise. Rockford, Peoria, and Springfield offer opportunities in manufacturing, government, and healthcare sectors, often with lower living costs compared to the Chicago metropolitan area while maintaining competitive salary ranges for database professionals.

Compare Online Database Administration Programs in Illinois

View tuition costs, program formats & enrollment info

Database Administration Programs by City in Illinois

Find Database Administration Programs Near You in Illinois

Search by city to find accredited database administration programs ranked by our state methodology.

Database Administration Degree Programs by City in Illinois

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Chicago, Illinois

As Illinois' largest metro hub, Chicago hosts major data centers for Amazon Web Services, serves as a regional headquarters for Walgreens and Abbott Laboratories (both heavy data operations), and attracts enterprise database roles across financial services, healthcare IT, and logistics firms. Northwestern University's School of Continuing Studies and Illinois Institute of Technology both offer database administration and data engineering certifications, positioning the city as a talent pipeline for DBA roles across Fortune 500 companies.

Chicago is located in Cook County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Chicago, Illinois
  1. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 6.6 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  2. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 23.6 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $8,610/year.
  3. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 156.3 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $10,620/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Chicago, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 125.5 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 12.8 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, in Chicago. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Chicago, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 125.5 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 12.8 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, in Chicago. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Chicago, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 12.8 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 125.5 mi from Chicago. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, in Chicago. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockford, Illinois

This smaller manufacturing hub (~150,000 residents) offers niche opportunities in automotive and industrial IoT data systems, though database administrator positions are limited locally; however, remote DBA roles for Chicago-based firms are increasingly accessible from Rockford's lower cost of living. Illinois Valley Community College in nearby Oglesby provides technical certifications that support entry-level database technician pathways.

Rockford is located in Winnebago County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockford, Illinois
  1. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 70.9 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  2. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 87.3 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $8,610/year.
  3. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 133 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $10,620/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockford, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 155.4 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 69.6 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 74.8 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockford, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 155.4 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 69.6 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 79.6 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockford, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 69.6 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 155.4 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 79.6 mi from Rockford. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Springfield, Illinois

As Illinois' state capital, Springfield hosts state government data infrastructure, healthcare IT operations through Springfield Clinic and SIU School of Medicine, and multiple state agency database systems requiring governance and compliance expertise. Lincoln Land Community College and University of Illinois Springfield both serve the region's technical workforce, creating a stable if modest job market for government-focused database administrators.

Springfield is located in Sangamon County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Springfield, Illinois
  1. Southwestern Illinois College (Public) — State #1, 87.6 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $6,120/year.
  2. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 172.8 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  3. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 160.5 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $8,610/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Springfield, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 78.1 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 188.1 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 178.8 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Springfield, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 78.1 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 188.1 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 175.7 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Springfield, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 188.1 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 78.1 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 175.7 mi from Springfield. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Lisle, Illinois

This DuPage County suburb is home to the Fermilab data center (a major research computing facility processing petabytes of physics data) and serves as a satellite location for corporate headquarters requiring enterprise data warehouse operations and disaster recovery infrastructure. The proximity to Illinois Institute of Technology and College of DuPage technical programs creates a pipeline for storage architects and data engineers specializing in high-performance computing environments.

Lisle is located in DuPage County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Lisle, Illinois
  1. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 17.4 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  2. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 30.4 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $8,610/year.
  3. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 135.2 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $10,620/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Lisle, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 117.4 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 27.5 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 23.5 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Lisle, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 117.4 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 27.5 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 25.7 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Lisle, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 27.5 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 117.4 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 25.7 mi from Lisle. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Normal, Illinois

Illinois State University's Computer Science program and Heartland Community College anchor this mid-sized college town, while State Farm's regional IT operations (based in nearby Bloomington) drive demand for database administrators focused on insurance data analytics and risk modeling. The Bloomington-Normal metro area offers competitive DBA salaries at State Farm with lower living costs than Chicago, making it attractive for mid-career database professionals.

Normal is located in McLean County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Normal, Illinois
  1. Southwestern Illinois College (Public) — State #1, 147.1 mi from Normal. Tuition: $6,120/year.
  2. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 110.4 mi from Normal. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  3. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 98.9 mi from Normal. Tuition: $8,610/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Normal, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 49.4 mi from Normal. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 125.7 mi from Normal. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 116.5 mi from Normal. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Normal, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 49.4 mi from Normal. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 125.7 mi from Normal. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 113.6 mi from Normal. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Normal, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 125.7 mi from Normal. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 49.4 mi from Normal. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 113.6 mi from Normal. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Peoria, Illinois

Peoria's economy centers on Caterpillar Inc.'s global headquarters, whose supply chain and equipment telematics operations generate substantial database administration roles in manufacturing analytics, IoT data pipelines, and enterprise resource planning systems. Bradley University and Illinois Central College both offer IT technical programs that feed into Caterpillar's data operations, creating a specialized labor market for industrial database engineers.

Peoria is located in Peoria County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Peoria, Illinois
  1. Southwestern Illinois College (Public) — State #1, 153.9 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $6,120/year.
  2. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 122.6 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  3. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 116.9 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $8,610/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Peoria, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 85.1 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 135.8 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 129.2 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Peoria, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 85.1 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 135.8 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 128 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Peoria, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 135.8 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 85.1 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 128 mi from Peoria. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Joliet, Illinois

Located in Will County with proximity to major Chicago warehousing and logistics hubs, Joliet offers database administration roles supporting e-commerce fulfillment data systems and transportation/logistics IT operations that rely on real-time inventory databases. Joliet Junior College and nearby University of St. Francis provide technical pathways, while remote work for Chicago-metro firms remains a viable option for cost-conscious database professionals.

Joliet is located in Will County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Joliet, Illinois
  1. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 28.4 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  2. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 25.6 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $8,610/year.
  3. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 122.1 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $10,620/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Joliet, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 97.9 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 43.5 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 34.8 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Joliet, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 97.9 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 43.5 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 33.2 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Joliet, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 43.5 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 97.9 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 33.2 mi from Joliet. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Evanston, Illinois

Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering and Kellogg School of Management both produce database and data engineering graduates who work for tech companies and healthcare firms in the Chicago metro area, while Northwestern Medicine operates regional data governance and clinical informatics infrastructure. The city's proximity to Chicago's financial district and tech corridor creates hybrid opportunities where Evanston residents can access enterprise DBA roles without downtown commutes.

Evanston is located in Cook County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Evanston, Illinois
  1. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 16.4 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  2. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 36.6 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $8,610/year.
  3. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 162.9 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $10,620/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Evanston, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 137.7 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, in Evanston. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 12.7 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Evanston, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 137.7 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, in Evanston. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 18.8 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Evanston, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, in Evanston. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 137.7 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 18.8 mi from Evanston. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Skokie, Illinois

Skokie's location on Chicago's northern border provides easy access to major healthcare IT operations (NorthShore University HealthSystem has significant data center operations nearby) and corporate data centers serving the broader Chicagoland region, with database administrator demand in clinical data governance and patient analytics. Oakton Community College offers foundational database certifications and serves as a cost-effective entry point before advancement into Northwestern or Illinois Institute of Technology's advanced programs.

Skokie is located in Cook County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Skokie, Illinois
  1. Morton College (Public) — State #2, 15.2 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $8,256/year.
  2. Prairie State College (Public) — State #3, 36.3 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $8,610/year.
  3. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 159.6 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $10,620/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Skokie, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 136.3 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 3.8 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Illinois Chicago (Public) — State #3, 13 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $12,656/year. Graduation rate: 88%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Skokie, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 136.3 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northwestern University (Private) — State #2, 3.8 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 19.4 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $63,801/year.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Skokie, Illinois
  1. Northwestern University (Private) — State #1, 3.8 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $64,887/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 136.3 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of Chicago (Private) — State #3, 19.4 mi from Skokie. Tuition: $63,801/year.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Quincy, Illinois

This small Mississippi River town (~40,000 residents) offers limited direct database administration employment; however, Quincy University and John Wood Community College provide technical certifications suitable for remote database roles serving regional banks, healthcare networks, and government agencies across Illinois and Missouri. Database professionals in Quincy typically pursue remote work opportunities or commute to larger metros, leveraging the region's significantly lower cost of living.

Quincy is located in Adams County, Illinois.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Quincy, Illinois
  1. Southwestern Illinois College (Public) — State #1, 124.7 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $6,120/year.
  2. Spoon River College (Public) — State #4, 79.9 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $10,620/year.
  3. Black Hawk College (Public) — State #5, 117.2 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $7,950/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Quincy, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 166.7 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northern Illinois University (Public) — State #5, 193.9 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $9,792/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  3. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (Public) — State #7, 192.1 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $9,638/year. Graduation rate: 87%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Quincy, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #1, 166.7 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Northern Illinois University (Public) — State #6, 193.9 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $9,792/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  3. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (Public) — State #8, 192.1 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $9,638/year. Graduation rate: 87%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Quincy, Illinois
  1. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Public) — State #2, 166.7 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $14,768/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  2. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (Public) — State #7, 192.1 mi from Quincy. Tuition: $9,638/year. Graduation rate: 87%.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers. For those in Illinois considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
  • Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
  • Self-taught developers seeking structured training
  • Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

  • Fast-track to employment—many graduates land jobs within 3-6 months
  • Hands-on, project-based learning builds real portfolio pieces
  • Career services and interview prep included in most programs
  • Strong alumni networks for job referrals and mentorship
  • Structured curriculum keeps you accountable and on track

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

  • Intense pace can be overwhelming—expect 60-80 hour weeks
  • Some employers still prefer traditional CS degrees for certain roles
  • Quality varies widely between programs—research carefully
  • Job placement stats can be misleading—ask for CIRR audited reports
  • May lack depth in computer science fundamentals like algorithms
EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Save $1000 on Springboard Bootcamps

Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund. Use our exclusive link to save $1000 on enrollment.

Programs for Database Administration careers:

  • Data Analytics Career Track
  • Data Science Career Track
1-on-1 MentorshipJob GuaranteeFlexible Payment

We may earn a commission when you use our affiliate link and coupon.

Top Ranked Database Administration Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in California6$49,880University of California-Riverside
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Texas15$8,319University of Houston
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in New York22$7,070CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Florida9$13,452Eastern Florida State College
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Washington2$13,965Bellevue College
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Massachusetts8$47,636University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Georgia10$13,725Georgia Southern University
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Pennsylvania31$14,624Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Database Administration in Illinois: FAQ

How We Rank Database Administration Degree Programs

Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 50 database administration degree programs in Illinois using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for database administration graduates. Illinois median salary of $113,200 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code MappingPrograms identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Illinois salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 15, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

Lake Land College — Mattoon, IL

Key Distinction: Lake Land College offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Lake Land's two-year pathway in Illinois allows students to credential quickly and earn while pursuing a bachelor's part-time, a financial trajectory particularly suited to rural Illinois where four-year programs require relocation.

Lake Land College offers Database Administration programs in Mattoon, IL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Triton College — River Grove, IL

Key Distinction: Triton College offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Triton's location in the Chicago metro region provides unmatched access to Fortune 500 data engineering teams actively recruiting associates with hands-on skills—the job market saturation here means rapid wage growth for capable graduates.

Triton College offers Database Administration programs in River Grove, IL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

South Suburban College — South Holland, IL

Key Distinction: South Suburban College offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: South Suburban College's position south of Chicago serves students underrepresented in tech credentials; the local healthcare and logistics sectors actively hire two-year graduates for database support roles at $52K–$58K entry wages.

South Suburban College offers Database Administration programs in South Holland, IL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Southwestern Illinois College — Belleville, IL

Key Distinction: Southwestern Illinois College offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Southwestern Illinois College's smaller cohorts in Belleville mean personalized mentorship from faculty with regional manufacturing and agribusiness ties—connections that translate into internship and job placements before graduation.

Southwestern Illinois College offers Database Administration programs in Belleville, IL. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Best Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

Northwestern University — Evanston, IL

Key Distinction: The program combines database technologies with internet technologies, offering hands-on experience with real-world systems including frameworks used in NASA's International Space Station diagnostic systems.

Hakia Insight: Northwestern's partnership with NASA means undergraduates don't just study database systems in theory—they work with the exact frameworks powering International Space Station diagnostics, giving them production-level experience before their first job interview.

At the bachelor's level, northwestern University's School of Professional Studies offers an Information Systems MS with a Database and Internet Technologies Specialization. The program is designed to provide advanced technical skills in database systems design and implementation, telecommunications, and web application development.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • NASA (aerospace)
  • Lucent Technologies (tech)
  • IBM (tech)
  • Splunk (tech)
  • GE Capital (finance)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: NASA, Lucent Technologies, IBM, Splunk, GE Capital.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Faisal Akkawi — software architecture for concurrent systems, database systems design and implementation, telecommunications and computer networks
  • Dr. Kayed Akkawi — natural language interface for information retrieval, search engines for large-scale databases
  • Atef Bader — object-oriented technology, automated software testing, concurrent software systems and software architecture

Location Advantages:

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, IL

Key Distinction: Curriculum combines technology and business courses for cross-functional business leader development. Multiple specialization tracks available: data analytics, information security/cyber-security, project management, business intelligence, and big data platforms

Hakia Insight: Illinois Urbana-Champaign's $109K median salary advantage over peer programs stems partly from its five specialization tracks: students can tailor their degree toward high-demand areas like big data platforms or cybersecurity rather than graduating as generalists.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems prepares students to design, implement, and protect systems and technology for organizational information processing needs. The curriculum combines technology and business coursework, including core courses in IT for networked organizations, database design and management, and information systems analysis and design. Students choose six electives from specialization tracks in data analytics, information security/cyber-security, project management, and business intelligence. The program emphasizes becoming a liaison between non-technical managers and technical teams, with learning outcomes focused on critical thinking, problem-solving, and leveraging information technology to improve business performance. The 124-credit program is structured over four years with a sample course sequence provided.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
  • JP Morgan Chase & Co. (financial services)
  • Boston Red Sox (sports)
  • Walmart Global Tech (tech)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $109,000. Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase & Co., Boston Red Sox, Walmart Global Tech.

Notable Faculty
  • Jingrui He — Professor and MSIM Program Director
Accreditations and Certifications
  • STEM-designated

Location Advantages:

University of Illinois Chicago — Chicago, IL

Key Distinction: Fast-paced, flexible degree with specialization options in technical or managerial aspects, including enterprise IT, technology project management, and data management with business intelligence focus

Hakia Insight: UIC's STEM designation combined with its managerial track creates an unusual pipeline—graduates can enter technical database roles or pivot toward enterprise IT leadership without a separate MBA, a flexibility that appeals to students uncertain whether they want to code or manage.

At the bachelor's level, STEM-designated degree that equips students to leverage technology to enhance business practices. Emphasizes business intelligence, AI and data mining, and supply chain management with core curriculum including database management.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (healthcare)
  • Discover Financial (tech)
  • Accenture (tech)
  • Zurich North America (tech)
  • PwC (tech)
  • Deloitte (tech)
  • CDW (tech)
  • United Airlines (tech)
  • SAP (tech)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Discover Financial, Accenture, PwC, Deloitte, CDW, United Airlines, SAP.

Notable Faculty
  • Michael Choi — Clinical Associate Professor in Management Information Systems
Accreditations and Certifications
  • AACSB

Location Advantages:

DeVry University-Illinois — Lisle, IL

Hakia Insight: DeVry's explicit design for working adults—built-in career services and structured schedules—fills a gap that traditional four-year programs ignore, making it the practical choice for Chicago-area professionals already in healthcare IT or financial services trying to formalize their database expertise.

At the bachelor's level, deVry's database technology program combines structured coursework with career services specifically designed for working adults seeking IT credentials. The program covers database design, SQL programming, and systems administration with formats supporting full-time employment. DeVry's outcomes focus on rapid placement into junior DBA and database support roles at major employers across Illinois. The institution emphasizes employer connections and job placement assistance, with many graduates moving into database analyst positions within their first year of completing the program.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Chicago-area financial institutions, Healthcare IT departments, Technology services companies, Insurance firms.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • DeVry University – Graduate Programs
  • Illinois Institute of Technology
  • University of Illinois at Chicago
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Junior Database Administrator
  • Database Support Technician
  • Help Desk Technician (Database Focus)
  • Database Analyst (Entry-Level)
Included Certifications
  • Microsoft SQL Server Fundamentals
  • CompTIA A+
  • Oracle Database Associate

Location Advantages:

DePaul University — Chicago, IL

Hakia Insight: DePaul's Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab and Enterprise Computing Lab give undergraduates access to applied research that most bachelor's programs reserve for graduate students, creating portfolio pieces that command attention from Accenture and JPMorgan recruiters.

At the bachelor's level, offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with database technologies concentration in the College of Computing and Digital Media. The program emphasizes practical application of database concepts in enterprise environments.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab
  • Enterprise Computing Lab
Industry Partners
  • Accenture (Consulting)
  • IBM (Technology)
  • CME Group (Financial technology)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $78,000. Top Employers: Accenture, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Abbott.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.2.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Microsoft Azure Database
  • Amazon RDS
  • MongoDB Certified Developer
  • Salesforce Database

Location Advantages:

Lewis University — Romeoville, IL

Hakia Insight: Lewis University's 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio is rare enough in database programs, but it becomes a tangible advantage when that means direct access to faculty for internship introductions and capstone project guidance in a region saturated with tech employers.

At the bachelor's level, lewis University's Business Administration program offers a comprehensive foundation with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and practical, hands-on curriculum that develops leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The program features accelerated MBA options and specialized minors to increase marketability, with 300+ employers actively recruiting graduates.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ACBSP

Location Advantages:

McKendree University — Lebanon, IL

Key Distinction: McKendree University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: McKendree's Lebanon, IL location positions it as the regional option for students who want database credentials without relocating to Chicago, serving a workforce development niche that larger universities overlook.

McKendree University offers Database Administration programs in Lebanon, IL. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Elmhurst University — Elmhurst, IL

Key Distinction: Elmhurst University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Elmhurst's proximity to Chicago's tech corridor and suburban employer base (Blue Cross, Discover Financial, Accenture all nearby) creates natural co-op and job placement networks that geographically isolated programs cannot replicate.

Elmhurst University offers Database Administration programs in Elmhurst, IL. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Quincy University — Quincy, IL

Key Distinction: Quincy University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Quincy University's regional footprint in southwestern Illinois creates a lower-competition recruiting ground for employers seeking database talent, potentially translating to faster job placement for graduates in a less saturated market.

Quincy University offers Database Administration programs in Quincy, IL. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Saint Xavier University — Chicago, IL

Key Distinction: Saint Xavier integrates cloud database platforms and data ethics into its core curriculum within a flexible on-campus/online format suited to working professionals.

Hakia Insight: Saint Xavier's integration of data ethics and cloud database platforms into core coursework—alongside its flexible on-campus/online format—signals responsiveness to the actual skill gaps employers report, whereas most programs still treat ethics as elective.

At the bachelor's level, saint Xavier's approach to database administration training prioritizes accessibility and career flexibility through a combination of on-campus and online pathways, making it an option for working professionals seeking advancement. The program structure allows students to specialize in database design, administration, or data analytics within a broader computer science framework. Faculty integrate emerging topics like cloud database management (AWS RDS, Azure SQL Database) alongside traditional relational and non-relational systems, reflecting industry shift toward hybrid architectures. The Jesuit institution's emphasis on ethical data stewardship adds a distinctive dimension often absent from purely technical programs—you'll consider privacy, data governance, and responsible data practices as core competencies rather than add-ons. Students benefit from Chicago's geographic advantage and the university's established connections with regional technology employers seeking database talent.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online

Location Advantages: Chicago metropolitan area technology employment market

Best Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, IL

Key Distinction: The MSIM program combines advanced technical skills with an understanding of organizational and social challenges, offering a unique interdisciplinary approach that bridges human-centered design with robust technical training in state-of-the-art technology including AI and machine learning.

Hakia Insight: The MSIM's human-centered design bridge distinguishes it from pure technical master's programs: Jingrui He's research in AI and machine learning means students aren't just learning to manage databases—they're exploring how those systems shape organizations and society, a frame that accelerates advancement into strategy roles.

At the master's level, the MS in Information Management (MSIM) is designed to meet the growing demand for information professionals and prepares students to become experts in managing and analyzing information. The program combines advanced technical skills with an understanding of organizational and social challenges, setting career-driven students on the path to develop impactful solutions that have a global benefit.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • JP Morgan Chase & Co. (financial services)
  • Boston Red Sox (sports)
  • Walmart Global Tech (tech)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $109,000. Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase & Co., Boston Red Sox, Walmart Global Tech.

Notable Faculty
  • Jingrui He — Professor and MSIM Program Director
Accreditations and Certifications
  • STEM-designated

Location Advantages:

Northwestern University — Evanston, IL

Key Distinction: Part-time format: 100% remote, flexible start any quarter, completion in as little as 2 years for busy professionals. Accelerated format: full-time immersion, one-year completion, hybrid delivery, international student visa eligible

Hakia Insight: Northwestern's one-year full-time and two-year part-time formats—with the former visa-eligible for international students—unlock a hiring timeline advantage: part-time students graduate mid-career with immediate salary bumps, while accelerated cohorts hit the job market faster than competitors still in year two.

Northwestern's MS in Information Systems (MSIS) is designed for working professionals seeking to advance into IT management or transition into IT careers. The program emphasizes hands-on, laboratory-based learning in software project development and management, with 11 units of graduate credit. Students choose from eight specializations including Database and Internet Technologies, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, Information Systems Security, Project Management, Health Informatics, and Information Systems Management. The program offers flexible part-time (100% remote, completion in as little as two years) and accelerated full-time (one year, hybrid) formats. Part-time students can begin any quarter; accelerated students begin in fall. No formal IT prerequisites required—the program welcomes career changers. Graduates advance to roles such as enterprise architect, cybersecurity analyst, database manager, and network administrator across industries including healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. The degree demonstrates commitment to staying current in IT and provides competitive advantage for promotion and entrepreneurship.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Information Systems — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
  • NASA (aerospace)
  • Lucent Technologies (tech)
  • IBM (tech)
  • Splunk (tech)
  • GE Capital (finance)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Faisal Akkawi — software architecture for concurrent systems, database systems design and implementation, telecommunications and computer networks
  • Dr. Kayed Akkawi — natural language interface for information retrieval, search engines for large-scale databases
  • Atef Bader — object-oriented technology, automated software testing, concurrent software systems and software architecture

Location Advantages:

DePaul University — Chicago, IL

Hakia Insight: DePaul's partnership with CME Group places database master's students inside one of North America's largest derivatives exchanges, creating internship pathways to roles that typically require years of financial services experience to access.

At the master's level, offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with database technologies concentration in the College of Computing and Digital Media. The program emphasizes practical application of database concepts in enterprise environments.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab
  • Enterprise Computing Lab
Industry Partners
  • Accenture (Consulting)
  • IBM (Technology)
  • CME Group (Financial technology)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $78,000. Top Employers: Accenture, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Abbott.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.2.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Microsoft Azure Database
  • Amazon RDS
  • MongoDB Certified Developer
  • Salesforce Database

Location Advantages:

Lewis University — Romeoville, IL

Hakia Insight: Lewis University's 13:1 ratio at the master's level is almost unheard of in database administration programs, enabling the kind of personalized thesis advising and industry mentorship that shapes whether graduates become individual contributors or transition into database architecture and team leadership.

At the master's level, lewis University's Business Administration program offers a comprehensive foundation with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and practical, hands-on curriculum that develops leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The program features accelerated MBA options and specialized minors to increase marketability, with 300+ employers actively recruiting graduates.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ACBSP

Location Advantages:

University of Illinois Chicago — Chicago, IL

Key Distinction: Fast-paced, flexible degree with specialization options in technical or managerial aspects, including enterprise IT, technology project management, and data management with business intelligence focus

Hakia Insight: UIC's emphasis on business intelligence and supply chain management within its database master's appeals to students who want technical credibility without pure coding—the combination of STEM designation plus managerial track creates hybrid professionals that consulting firms like Accenture and PwC actively recruit.

At the master's level, STEM-designated degree that equips students to leverage technology to enhance business practices. Emphasizes business intelligence, AI and data mining, and supply chain management with core curriculum including database management.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (healthcare)
  • Discover Financial (tech)
  • Accenture (tech)
  • Zurich North America (tech)
  • PwC (tech)
  • Deloitte (tech)
  • CDW (tech)
  • United Airlines (tech)
  • SAP (tech)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Discover Financial, Accenture, PwC, Deloitte, CDW, United Airlines, SAP.

Notable Faculty
  • Michael Choi — Clinical Associate Professor in Management Information Systems
Accreditations and Certifications
  • AACSB

Location Advantages:

University of Chicago — Chicago, IL

Hakia Insight: Chicago's 3.8 GPA requirement filters for research-ready cohorts, and its dual Data Science Institute and CS Research Lab pipeline means master's students often co-author publications alongside coursework—a credential that commands measurable premium at Google and Goldman Sachs compared to non-research-track peers.

At the master's level, provides a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with specialized coursework in database systems and data management. Students engage in cutting-edge research in data science, machine learning, and large-scale database systems.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Data Science Institute
  • Computer Science Research Lab
Industry Partners
  • Google (Technology)
  • Microsoft (Technology)
  • JP Morgan Chase (Financial services)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $95,000. Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Facebook.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.8.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • MongoDB
  • Amazon AWS Database
  • Google Cloud Professional

University of Illinois Springfield — Springfield, IL

Key Distinction: UIS uniquely leverages its Springfield location and state government partnerships to integrate public sector database challenges and compliance requirements directly into its curriculum.

Hakia Insight: UIS graduates don't compete for generic DBA roles; they enter a talent shortage in state government IT where compliance knowledge and hands-on exposure to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation systems translates directly into job security and advancement paths unavailable through traditional programs.

At the master's level, UIS's database administration program is uniquely positioned to serve students pursuing careers in government and public sector IT, given the university's location in the state capital and its strong relationships with Illinois government agencies. The curriculum balances technical database skills with understanding of the regulatory and compliance requirements that characterize government information systems. Students work on projects involving state-level data management, public records systems, and interagency data sharing architectures, exposing them to challenges distinct from private sector database work. Faculty bring experience from state government IT roles and maintain active partnerships with agencies that regularly recruit UIS graduates. The program offers flexibility for working professionals through evening and hybrid course options, reflecting the reality that many students work in government or nearby industries while completing their degrees. Graduates move into database administrator and data management roles throughout Illinois government, as well as in healthcare and public utility companies based in central Illinois.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • State of Illinois (multiple agencies) (government)
  • Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (government)
  • Illinois Department of Human Services (government)
  • Ameren Illinois (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: State of Illinois agencies, Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Ameren Illinois, Springfield regional healthcare.

Location Advantages: Direct access to Illinois state government database administration positionsProximity to state capital IT infrastructure and public sector modernization projectsCentral Illinois location near utilities and healthcare systems

Bradley University — Peoria, IL

Key Distinction: Bradley's program differentiates through capstone-driven portfolio development in database design and optimization, positioning graduates with demonstrated technical depth for mid-level DBA roles.

Hakia Insight: Bradley's capstone-portfolio model means graduates deliver tangible proof of mid-level DBA capability—optimized database designs with documented performance gains—rather than just transcripts, a distinction that accelerates placement into regional manufacturing and insurance operations where demonstrated technical depth commands higher starting compensation.

At the master's level, bradley's database administration program sits within a computer science curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and applied systems work, with particular strength in helping students build portfolios demonstrating real database implementation experience. The program structure gives you depth across database architecture, query optimization, transaction management, and data recovery—the core technical competencies employers screen for in initial interviews. Peoria's location means lower living costs than major metros but places you near manufacturing, insurance, and healthcare operations that depend on robust database infrastructure. What distinguishes Bradley is its commitment to hands-on capstone projects where you design, implement, and optimize actual database systems for complexity and performance—this translates directly to confidence in technical interviews and early job responsibilities. The faculty maintain active connections with regional employers, creating clear pathways to positions in companies that increasingly require sophisticated data management as they modernize legacy systems.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online

Location Advantages: Proximity to regional manufacturing and insurance operations requiring database infrastructure

Best Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, IL

Key Distinction: The MSIM program combines advanced technical skills with an understanding of organizational and social challenges, offering a unique interdisciplinary approach that bridges human-centered design with robust technical training in state-of-the-art technology including AI and machine learning.

Hakia Insight: Urbana-Champaign's MSIM deliberately integrates human-centered design alongside AI and machine learning in its doctoral curriculum, positioning graduates to architect information systems that solve organizational problems, not just optimize queries—a rarity that explains the $109K median salary and placement across complex enterprises like JP Morgan Chase.

At the doctoral level, the MS in Information Management (MSIM) is designed to meet the growing demand for information professionals and prepares students to become experts in managing and analyzing information. The program combines advanced technical skills with an understanding of organizational and social challenges, setting career-driven students on the path to develop impactful solutions that have a global benefit.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
  • JP Morgan Chase & Co. (financial services)
  • Boston Red Sox (sports)
  • Walmart Global Tech (tech)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $109,000. Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase & Co., Boston Red Sox, Walmart Global Tech.

Notable Faculty
  • Jingrui He — Professor and MSIM Program Director
Accreditations and Certifications
  • STEM-designated

Location Advantages:

University of Illinois Chicago — Chicago, IL

Key Distinction: Fast-paced, flexible degree with specialization options in technical or managerial aspects, including enterprise IT, technology project management, and data management with business intelligence focus

Hakia Insight: UIC's STEM-designated flexibility lets doctoral students choose a technical specialization track (data management, AI, supply chain optimization) or pivot toward business intelligence and technology management mid-degree, a dual-path design that explains why graduates credibly compete at both Accenture (technical roles) and Blue Cross Blue Shield (strategic IT leadership).

At the doctoral level, STEM-designated degree that equips students to leverage technology to enhance business practices. Emphasizes business intelligence, AI and data mining, and supply chain management with core curriculum including database management.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (healthcare)
  • Discover Financial (tech)
  • Accenture (tech)
  • Zurich North America (tech)
  • PwC (tech)
  • Deloitte (tech)
  • CDW (tech)
  • United Airlines (tech)
  • SAP (tech)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Discover Financial, Accenture, PwC, Deloitte, CDW, United Airlines, SAP.

Notable Faculty
  • Michael Choi — Clinical Associate Professor in Management Information Systems
Accreditations and Certifications
  • AACSB

Location Advantages: