Best Colleges – Colleges that Improve Students' Economic Futures in Illinois

About

A college degree is a huge investment, and a key measure of a college is how well it sets up a student for success after graduation. This Hidden Gem ranking list focuses on results that matter.

College Raptor’s ranking of colleges that improve students' economic futures evaluates accessibility for low-income households and key post-graduation outcomes, including post-graduation earnings, degree completion rate, and student loan repayment success.

Methodology

Equal weighting was given to following core pillars:

• Lower income and Pell-eligible student accessibility
• Degree completion rates
• Career and earnings outcomes
• Debt burden and repayment

Post-graduation earnings data was adjusted for local cost of living. Schools on this list must also meet College Raptor’s Hidden Gem criteria.