Liberal arts colleges in Illinois provide students with a comprehensive and well-rounded education, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and experiential learning. With small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and numerous opportunities for research and internships, these colleges prepare students for success in a wide range of careers and fields. Here is a list of liberal arts colleges in Illinois.
1. Knox College
Location: Galesburg, Illinois
Knox College is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on critical thinking and experiential learning. With a diverse range of academic programs, students have the opportunity to explore various disciplines. The college fosters close faculty-student relationships and offers numerous opportunities for research and community engagement.
2. Monmouth College
Location: Monmouth, Illinois
Monmouth College is a private liberal arts institution that provides a supportive and close-knit community for students. The college offers a wide array of academic programs, including arts, sciences, and humanities. Students benefit from small class sizes and opportunities for internships and study abroad experiences.
3. Lake Forest College
Location: Lake Forest, Illinois
Lake Forest College is a private liberal arts college located near Chicago. It offers a broad curriculum, encouraging students to explore various academic interests. The college’s small class sizes enable personalized attention from faculty, and students have opportunities for hands-on research and internships.
4. Augustana College
Location: Rock Island, Illinois
Augustana College is a private liberal arts college with a strong sense of community and a commitment to academic excellence. The college offers a wide range of programs, including arts, sciences, and pre-professional tracks. Students have opportunities for internships and research, both on and off-campus.
5. Illinois Wesleyan University
Location: Bloomington, Illinois
Illinois Wesleyan University is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes a well-rounded education. With a diverse range of academic programs, the university encourages students to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills. The university’s campus provides a supportive and engaging environment for personal and intellectual growth.
6. North Central College
Location: Naperville, Illinois
North Central College is a private liberal arts institution that focuses on providing a transformative and personalized education. The college offers a variety of academic programs, including arts, sciences, and business. Students have opportunities for internships and community-based learning experiences.
7. Elmhurst University
Location: Elmhurst, Illinois
Elmhurst University is a private liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on professional preparation. The college offers a wide array of programs, including arts, sciences, and health-related fields. Students benefit from a supportive community and numerous opportunities for internships and career development.
8. Millikin University
Location: Decatur, Illinois
Millikin University is a private institution that provides a well-rounded liberal arts education. With a focus on performance learning, students have opportunities to gain real-world experience in their chosen fields. The university offers various academic programs and is committed to fostering creativity and critical thinking.
9. Principia College
Location: Elsah, Illinois
Principia College is a private liberal arts college with a focus on educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The college offers a challenging academic curriculum with an emphasis on spiritual growth and moral character. Students have opportunities for experiential learning and community engagement.
10. Rockford University
Location: Rockford, Illinois
Rockford University is a private liberal arts institution that values a diverse and inclusive learning community. The university offers a variety of academic programs, including arts, sciences, and professional fields. Students have opportunities for research, internships, and service-learning experiences.
