Top 3 Management Information Systems Programs in Illinois 2025
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
310 Information Systems graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
Northwestern University
88 Information Systems graduates annually, 90% graduation rate
University of Illinois Chicago
121 Information Systems graduates annually, 88% graduation rate
- 1.Illinois has 20+ accredited management information systems bachelor's programs with strong business technology focus
- 2.University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ranks #1 in Illinois with 85% graduation rate and Fortune 500 recruiting
- 3.Illinois information systems managers earn median $97,430 annually - close to the national average of $101,510
- 4.Chicago's thriving business sector provides extensive internship and career opportunities for MIS graduates
- 5.Public universities offer excellent value with in-state tuition averaging $15,000 compared to $42,000+ for private schools
Management Information Systems Education in Illinois
Illinois offers diverse management information systems programs that blend business acumen with technology expertise. From the flagship University of Illinois campuses to Chicago-based institutions like DePaul, students can access programs that connect directly to the state's robust business and technology sectors.
For national program comparisons, see our comprehensive information systems degree hub. Students interested in related fields should explore our information technology programs in Illinois or review data science programs in Illinois for analytics-focused alternatives.
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 88.5 |
| 2 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $64,887 | 90% | — | 75.3 |
| 3 | University of Illinois Chicago | Chicago, IL | Public | $12,656 | 88% | — | 66.8 |
| 4 | Loyola University Chicago | Chicago, IL | Private | $50,270 | 92% | — | 61.2 |
| 5 | DeVry University-Illinois | Lisle, IL | For-Profit | $14,392 | 23% | — | 61.1 |
| 6 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | 58.2 |
| 7 | Lewis University | Romeoville, IL | Private | $37,592 | 99% | — | 47.7 |
| 8 | McKendree University | Lebanon, IL | Private | $32,660 | 84% | — | 47.6 |
| 9 | Illinois State University | Normal, IL | Public | $11,000 | 81% | — | 47.4 |
| 10 | Elmhurst University | Elmhurst, IL | Private | $41,258 | 82% | — | 46.8 |
| 11 | Quincy University | Quincy, IL | Private | $35,740 | 72% | — | 45.4 |
| 12 | Saint Xavier University | Chicago, IL | Private | $35,680 | 80% | — | 43.1 |
| 13 | Millikin University | Decatur, IL | Private | $42,778 | — | — | 42.1 |
| 14 | Dominican University | River Forest, IL | Private | $37,194 | 68% | — | 40 |
| 15 | Bradley University | Peoria, IL | Private | $39,248 | — | — | 39.8 |
Showing 1–15 of 19
Top 5 Information Systems Programs in Illinois: Side-by-Side
| School | Northwestern | U of Chicago | UIUC | Lewis | U of Illinois Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $64,887 | $63,801 | $14,768 | $37,592 | $12,656 |
| Graduation Rate | 90% | N/A% | 90% | 99% | 88% |
| Annual Graduates | 2076 | 1238 | 310 | 144 | 243 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7% | 5% | 44% | 73% | 79% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 96.3/100 | 77.8/100 | 66.0/100 | 57.7/100 | 56.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Information Systems in Illinois
Illinois offers 27 bachelor's-level information systems programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, University of Illinois Chicago. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $79,240 in the Illinois market.
A bachelor's in information systems typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Information Systems Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Information Systems Bachelor's Programs in Illinois
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UIUC | $14,768 | 90% | 310 | 66.0 |
| #2 Northwestern | $64,887 | 90% | 88 | 79.1 |
| #3 U of Illinois Chicago | $12,656 | 88% | 243 | 56.4 |
Top Information Systems Schools for Master's Degrees in Illinois
For graduate study, Illinois offers 18 master's-level information systems programs. Leading institutions include Northwestern University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Illinois reaching $147,160 or more.
Top 3 Information Systems Master's Programs in Illinois
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Northwestern | $64,887 | 90% | 2076 | 96.3 |
| #2 U of Chicago | $63,801 | N/A% | 1238 | 77.8 |
| #3 UIUC | $14,768 | 90% | 601 | 71.5 |
Most Affordable Information Systems Colleges in Illinois
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information systems programs in Illinois are at Governors State University ($7,872/year), Western Illinois University ($9,359/year), Eastern Illinois University ($9,624/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Illinois's competitive tech salaries.
At Governors State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $31,488 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $79,240, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.
Most Affordable Information Systems Programs in Illinois (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Governors State | $7,872 | $31,488 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Western Illinois | $9,359 | $37,436 | 0.8 years | Public |
| #3 Eastern Illinois | $9,624 | $38,496 | 0.9 years | Public |
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,887 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Systems Graduates: 2,076 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 7%
- • Ranking Score: 96.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 2,076 information systems graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 96.3 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (2,076 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (7% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,801 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Systems Graduates: 1,238 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 5%
- • Ranking Score: 77.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 1,238 information systems graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 77.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (1,238 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (5% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,768 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Systems Graduates: 310 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 44%
- • Ranking Score: 66.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 310 information systems graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.0 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (310 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (44% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Information Systems program at UIUC holds STEM designation and bridges computer science and business operations, preparing graduates for technical careers with strong industry partnerships including the Deloitte Foundation Center for Business Analytics. Graduates achieve a 90% first destination rate within 6 months with an average starting salary of $75,373.
Admission Prerequisites
- •CS 105
Program Details
- Credits: 124 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $75,373
- Job Placement: 90% secured first destination within 6 months
- Top Employers: AbbVie Inc., Amazon, Capital One, Caterpillar Inc., Deloitte, Epic Systems, EY, Google, Grainger, JPMorganChase, KPMG, Microsoft, PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, PwC, RSM
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $37,592 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Systems Graduates: 144 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 73%
- • Ranking Score: 57.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 144 information systems graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 57.7 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (144 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (73% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The M.S. in Management Information Systems is a STEM-designated program that bridges technical expertise with business acumen, offering flexible delivery formats including online and hybrid options. The program focuses on strategic technology leadership, data analytics, and cybersecurity to address growing industry demand for skilled MIS professionals.
Program Details
- Credits: 36 graduate credit hours
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $159K median salary IT Managers
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,656 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 88% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Systems Graduates: 243 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 56.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- 243 information systems graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 56.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (88%), program size (243 graduates), state salary outcomes ($113,200), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Information Systems Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan, coordinate, and direct IT activities in organizations
Business Analyst
SOC 13-1111Analyze business processes and recommend technology solutions
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1141Design, implement, and maintain database systems
Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1121Study organization's systems and design solutions
IT Project Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan and direct IT projects from conception to completion
Illinois University Systems for MIS Education
The University of Illinois System offers the most comprehensive MIS education options in the state. UIUC provides the flagship research-oriented program, while UIC offers an urban alternative with strong Chicago business connections. Both campuses maintain excellent faculty-to-student ratios and provide extensive career services.
Illinois State University System institutions like Illinois State University and Northern Illinois University provide quality education at affordable prices. These programs focus on practical business technology skills and maintain strong regional employer relationships.
Private institutions like DePaul and Northwestern offer smaller class sizes and specialized programs. DePaul's Chicago location provides unmatched internship opportunities, while Northwestern's prestigious business school offers an elite but expensive option.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Illinois
MIS Programs in Other States
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to Chicago's major business and financial markets
- Affordable public education options with strong outcomes
- Diverse program offerings from research to practical focus
- Strong alumni networks in Midwest business community
- Excellent internship opportunities in major metropolitan areas
- Coastal tech hubs like Silicon Valley or NYC
- Warmer climates year-round
- More prestigious private university options
- International business focus over domestic markets
- Larger tech startup ecosystems
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois MIS Programs
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Information Systems degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific information systems salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Information Systems Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics for 2023
Illinois-specific salary data for information systems occupations, May 2024
Tuition, fees, and program availability data
State-specific higher education data and program information
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.