Roosevelt University offers a diverse, urban campus experience with strong social justice values, but prospective students should weigh its relatively high tuition, limited campus life, and program-specific strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these pros and cons is key for beginners considering Roosevelt as their college choice.
Background: About Roosevelt University
Founded in 1945 and named after President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, Roosevelt University is a private, non-profit institution located in downtown Chicago, Illinois. The university was established with a mission to promote inclusivity, social justice, and equal opportunity. It enrolls approximately 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students across two main campuses: the urban Chicago campus and the suburban Schaumburg location. Roosevelt offers over 70 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs, including notable schools such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts, the College of Pharmacy, and the Heller College of Business.
Main Pros of Roosevelt University
- Diverse Student Body: Roosevelt is recognized for its commitment to diversity, with students from various backgrounds and more than 60 countries represented on campus.
- Urban Location: The downtown Chicago campus gives students access to internships, jobs, cultural events, and networking opportunities across the city.
- Small Class Sizes: Most classes have 15-30 students, allowing for personalized attention and close interaction with professors.
- Social Justice Mission: Roosevelt’s curriculum and campus culture emphasize social responsibility, equity, and activism, which appeals to students passionate about making a difference.
- Specialized Programs: The Chicago College of Performing Arts, Heller College of Business, and the College of Pharmacy offer respected programs with strong industry connections.
- Flexible Learning Options: Many programs offer evening, weekend, and online classes, accommodating non-traditional and working students.
Main Cons of Roosevelt University
- Tuition and Fees: As a private university, Roosevelt’s tuition is higher than many public institutions, which can be a barrier for some students.
- Limited Campus Life: Roosevelt is primarily a commuter school, especially at the Chicago campus. Traditional campus activities, Greek life, and on-campus housing are less prominent than at many larger universities.
- Program Variability: While some programs are highly regarded, others are less established or lack national recognition compared to those at larger research universities.
- Facilities: Although the Wabash Building is a modern skyscraper with impressive amenities, some students find the urban campus less cohesive or traditional than suburban or rural campuses.
- Mixed Graduation and Retention Rates: Roosevelt’s graduation and retention rates are below national averages, which may indicate challenges in student support or fit.
How Roosevelt University Works for Beginners
Roosevelt University’s admissions process is relatively accessible, with a holistic review that considers GPA, test scores (optional for many programs), extracurricular activities, and personal statements. Beginners can apply as first-year, transfer, or international students. The university offers orientation programs, academic advising, and first-year seminars to help new students transition.
Classes are held in the iconic Wabash Building and other downtown facilities, integrating the city’s resources into the academic experience. Many students take advantage of internships, part-time jobs, and cultural events within walking distance. Roosevelt’s advising and student services aim to support beginners academically and socially, though the commuter nature means students often need to be proactive in seeking involvement.
How to Choose If Roosevelt Is Right for You
Choosing Roosevelt University should be based on your academic interests, desired campus experience, and financial situation. Consider the following factors:
- Academic Fit: Research your intended major—some Roosevelt programs (such as performing arts, business, and pharmacy) are especially strong, while others may have limited course offerings or fewer faculty.
- Urban vs. Traditional Campus: If you thrive in an urban setting with real-world connections but don’t mind a less traditional campus experience, Roosevelt could be a good fit. If you want a classic residential college experience with lots of on-campus activities, you may prefer a different environment.
- Cost and Aid: Review Roosevelt’s tuition and financial aid packages. The university offers merit-based scholarships and need-based aid, but out-of-pocket costs can still be high compared to public universities.
- Diversity and Inclusion: If learning in a diverse, socially conscious community is important to you, Roosevelt’s mission and student body may be appealing.
Comparisons: Roosevelt vs. Other Chicago Universities
Chicago is home to several respected universities, each with its own strengths. Here’s how Roosevelt compares to a few:
- University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): UIC is a large public research university with more extensive facilities, research opportunities, and campus life. It’s typically less expensive for in-state students.
- DePaul University: Like Roosevelt, DePaul is a private urban university with a strong focus on social justice, but it is larger and has a wider national reputation.
- Loyola University Chicago: Loyola offers a traditional campus feel with Jesuit values, strong pre-med and business programs, and more on-campus housing options.
- Columbia College Chicago: Columbia specializes in arts and media and has a similar urban, creative vibe, but with a stronger focus on creative industries.
For beginners, Roosevelt stands out for its smaller size, personalized attention, and social justice orientation, but may lag behind in campus life and national recognition in some fields.
Common Challenges and Support Services
New Roosevelt students often face challenges such as adjusting to city life, managing costs, and finding their community in a commuter-heavy environment. The university offers resources to help, including:
- Academic Advising: Each student is assigned an advisor to help with course selection, degree planning, and career guidance.
- Student Support Services: These include tutoring, counseling, disability services, and a career development center.
- Student Organizations: Despite limited campus life, there are clubs, honor societies, and volunteer opportunities.
- Orientation and First-Year Programs: Designed to help beginners connect and navigate the university.
However, students who do not actively seek out these resources may find it harder to build connections or get the help they need.
Costs, Financial Aid, and Value
Tuition and fees at Roosevelt University are comparable to other private universities, with undergraduate tuition exceeding $30,000 per year before financial aid. Additional costs include housing (if living on campus), books, and personal expenses. Roosevelt offers:
- Merit Scholarships: Based on academic achievement, these can significantly reduce tuition.
- Need-Based Aid: Federal and state grants, as well as Roosevelt grants, are available to qualifying students.
- Work-Study and On-Campus Jobs: Opportunities for students to earn money while studying.
Despite these options, many students graduate with loans, and it’s important to weigh the long-term value of a Roosevelt degree in your chosen field.
Campus Safety and Urban Living
Roosevelt’s main campus is in downtown Chicago, adjacent to the Loop and close to public transportation. The university has a campus safety department, secure buildings, and emergency alert systems. Like any urban campus, students should be aware of their surroundings and practice basic safety precautions, especially at night or when traveling off campus. The vibrant city location provides access to jobs, entertainment, and culture, but also means higher living costs and the need for city smarts.
Alternatives to Roosevelt University
If Roosevelt’s pros and cons don’t align with your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Public Universities: University of Illinois at Chicago or Northeastern Illinois University offer lower tuition and more traditional campus life.
- Other Private Colleges: DePaul, Loyola, and Columbia College Chicago provide different mixes of campus culture, size, and academic strengths.
- Community Colleges: City Colleges of Chicago can be a lower-cost option for the first two years, with transfer agreements to four-year schools.
- Online Programs: For those needing maximum flexibility, online degrees from accredited institutions may be a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Roosevelt University accredited?
Yes, Roosevelt University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and many individual programs hold specialized accreditations. - Does Roosevelt have on-campus housing?
Yes, but options are limited compared to larger universities. Most undergraduates commute or live in nearby apartments, but the university offers residence halls in the Wabash Building. - Is Roosevelt University good for international students?
Roosevelt is known for its diverse student body and support for international students, including dedicated advising, cultural organizations, and English language support. - What is the average class size at Roosevelt?
Most classes have between 15 and 30 students, allowing for more individualized attention from faculty. - How difficult is it to get accepted?
Roosevelt has a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate typically above 60%. Many programs are test-optional. - What types of majors is Roosevelt best known for?
Roosevelt is especially recognized for its performing arts, business, pharmacy, and social justice-related programs.
Conclusion: Should Beginners Choose Roosevelt?
Roosevelt University’s strengths lie in its urban location, commitment to diversity and social justice, small class sizes, and specialized programs. However, beginners should consider the higher cost, limited on-campus experience, and the importance of self-motivation in a commuter environment. If you value social activism, personalized attention, and city life—and are prepared for the financial investment—Roosevelt could be a rewarding choice. For those seeking a traditional, residential campus or broader program options, exploring alternatives may be worthwhile. Ultimately, a careful evaluation of your priorities and a campus visit are the best ways to determine if Roosevelt University is the right fit for you.
See the main Roosevelt University pros and cons.