Public universities in Illinois are institutions of higher education that are funded and operated by the state. They offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including arts, sciences, engineering, and business. Some of the most notable public universities in Illinois include University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois State University, and Northern Illinois University. These universities aim to provide accessible education to residents of Illinois and often have lower tuition rates for in-state students. They also contribute to research and community development, playing a vital role in the state's economy and workforce development.