The last stop on the Metra Electric line out of downtown Chicago is University Park, and that's where Governors State sits. Founded in 1969, it spent decades teaching only upper-level and graduate students before adding first-year entry. Health professions, computer science and education are its strongest areas. The campus shares its grounds with the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park.
University Park, Illinois, United States
Official website: govst.edu
Public university in Illinois
1969
Prairie grounds with a sculpture park
Metra Electric station to downtown Chicago
$16,000 – $22,000
International students, graduate programmes
$11,000 – $15,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on govst.edu before you apply.
MS Computer Science
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
MS Information Technology
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
MBA
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
Master of Health Administration
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
BS Computer Science
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 61
Low tuition for a public university near Chicago.
Health professions programmes in occupational therapy and nursing.
A commuter-friendly campus on the Metra line.
Computer science and IT graduates find roles with Chicago-area employers.
Health administration graduates join hospital systems in Illinois.
STEM master's graduates can work up to three years on OPT.
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
The campus sits among prairie and woodland in Chicago's far south suburbs. There's on-campus housing at Prairie Place, which is useful because the area is car-dependent.
Downtown Chicago is about an hour by Metra. Rent in the south suburbs is well below city prices.
Form I-20 issued by Governors State University
Proof of funds for one academic year
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Completed DS-160 online application
US embassy or consulate interview
Passport valid six months beyond stay
GSU reviews international applications on a rolling basis. Aim to apply by May for fall and by October for spring so there is time for the I-20.
Most programmes start in fall (August) and spring (January).
You'll need an F-1 visa. Once you accept your offer and send proof of funding, Governors State University issues the Form I-20. After that it's the SEVIS fee, the DS-160 form and an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Computer science, information technology, the MBA and health administration are the most popular choices for international students. Master's entry needs a bachelor's degree and IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
GSU offers a limited number of scholarships, and graduate assistantships are available in some departments. Ask the international admissions office about current options.
