I would certainly prefer to live there, I was considering UMichigan as it is a few hours away, but I would be much happier in Chicago.
Is UIC really that looked down upon or something? Not that I really worry about rankings, but it is ranked similarly to George Washington.
I have to admit, I am a bit surprised that no one seems to know anything about Northwestern's MPH program. I would think that a well-respected school such as that would have a good program.