Roosevelt University and DePaul University are both private institutions located in Chicago, but they differ significantly in size, campus culture, academic offerings, costs, and student experience. Choosing between them depends on your academic goals, preferred environment, and financial situation. Here’s a detailed comparison of their pros and cons, with the context and details a prospective student or curious reader would want to know.
Background: Roosevelt and DePaul at a Glance
Both Roosevelt University and DePaul University are well-established private universities in Chicago, Illinois, but their histories, missions, and campus environments set them apart.
- Roosevelt University was founded in 1945 with a mission rooted in social justice and inclusivity. It’s known for its diverse student body and commitment to access and equity.
- DePaul University, established in 1898, is the largest Catholic university in the U.S. and emphasizes Vincentian values of service and community. It boasts a larger student population and a broader range of programs.
Both schools are located in downtown Chicago, but DePaul also has a significant campus in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, while Roosevelt’s main campus is in the Loop, right in the city’s heart.
Academic Programs and Reputation
Both universities offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, but there are distinct differences in size and scope:
- DePaul University offers over 300 academic programs, including highly ranked programs in business (Driehaus College of Business), law, computer science, and performing arts (The Theatre School and School of Music). DePaul is generally regarded as stronger in business, communications, and technology-related fields.
- Roosevelt University offers about 70 undergraduate majors and 40 graduate programs. It is known for its programs in performing arts (Chicago College of Performing Arts), education, psychology, and public administration. Roosevelt’s curriculum often integrates social justice themes.
In terms of national rankings, DePaul tends to rank higher overall and is more widely recognized outside the Midwest. Roosevelt is respected regionally, especially for its mission-driven programs.
Campus Life and Student Experience
Campus culture and student experience can differ dramatically between the two:
- DePaul has a much larger student body (about 22,000 total students, including undergrads and graduates) and offers a traditional college experience with clubs, Greek life, athletics (NCAA Division I), and vibrant campus events. Its Lincoln Park campus provides a more residential, “college town” feel, while the Loop campus caters to commuters and working students.
- Roosevelt is smaller (around 4,000 students), leading to a more intimate environment. Student organizations, events, and campus life focus heavily on diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Roosevelt’s campus is highly urban, with limited on-campus housing and a substantial commuter population.
DePaul’s size and resources generally mean more opportunities for extracurricular involvement, while Roosevelt’s close-knit environment may appeal to those seeking more individualized attention and a mission-driven community.
Costs, Financial Aid, and Value
Cost is a major consideration for most students, and both universities have similar sticker prices but differing financial aid profiles:
- Tuition and Fees: For the 2023-24 academic year, DePaul’s undergraduate tuition is approximately $44,000 per year, while Roosevelt’s is around $33,000. However, actual costs vary widely after scholarships and aid.
- Financial Aid: Both universities offer substantial need-based and merit-based aid. DePaul, with a larger endowment, often provides more institutional grants. Roosevelt is known for generous aid packages, especially for first-generation and underrepresented students.
- Value: DePaul’s national reputation and larger alumni network can offer better job placement in some fields, potentially increasing long-term value. Roosevelt’s value is often found in smaller class sizes and personalized attention.
It’s important to use each school’s net price calculator to estimate your real cost after aid, as few students pay full price.
Location, Safety, and Commuting
Both Roosevelt and DePaul benefit from being in Chicago, with access to internships, jobs, and cultural opportunities. However, there are differences in campus environments and safety:
- Roosevelt is located in the Loop, Chicago’s downtown business district. The area is bustling during the day and close to public transportation, museums, theaters, and government buildings. At night, the Loop can be quieter, and students should take standard urban precautions.
- DePaul has two main campuses: the Loop campus (similar urban environment to Roosevelt) and the Lincoln Park campus, which is more residential and considered one of Chicago’s safer neighborhoods. Lincoln Park offers a more traditional campus layout and green spaces.
Both schools are accessible by CTA trains and buses, making commuting feasible. Roosevelt is especially popular with commuter students, while DePaul offers more on-campus housing options.
Pros and Cons of Roosevelt University
- Pros:
- Strong commitment to social justice and diversity
- Smaller class sizes and personalized attention
- Prime downtown location for internships and networking
- Generous financial aid for underrepresented groups
- Notable programs in performing arts, education, and public administration
- Cons:
- Smaller selection of programs and majors
- Lower national ranking and recognition
- Limited campus housing and traditional college experience
- Fewer extracurricular and athletics opportunities
Pros and Cons of DePaul University
- Pros:
- Larger selection of academic programs and majors
- Strong reputation in business, communications, and technology
- Extensive campus life, clubs, and NCAA Division I athletics
- Two campus environments: urban Loop and residential Lincoln Park
- Large alumni network and national recognition
- Cons:
- Higher tuition and living costs, especially in Lincoln Park
- Larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses
- Some students may feel less individualized attention
- Competitive admissions in popular programs
How to Choose Between Roosevelt and DePaul
Choosing between these universities depends on several personal and academic factors. Consider:
- Academic interests: Does one school have a stronger program in your intended major?
- Campus environment: Do you prefer a smaller, mission-driven campus or a larger, more traditional college experience?
- Location preferences: Would you rather be in the heart of downtown or in a more residential neighborhood?
- Financial aid and cost: Which school offers you a better financial aid package?
- Long-term goals: Which university’s alumni network and reputation align better with your career plans?
Visiting both campuses and talking to current students can provide valuable insight into which environment feels like the best fit for you.
Common Challenges and Considerations
Regardless of which university you choose, there are common issues to keep in mind:
- Urban campus safety: While both universities take security seriously, students should be aware of their surroundings and use campus safety resources, especially at night.
- Cost of living: Chicago is an expensive city, and housing, transportation, and daily expenses can add up. Budgeting is important.
- Commuting: Many students at both schools commute. Consider your commute time and transportation options.
- Academic pressure: Both schools have rigorous programs. Time management and seeking academic support are key to success.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is DePaul University harder to get into than Roosevelt?
Generally, yes. DePaul has more selective admissions, especially for popular programs like business and computer science. Roosevelt has a higher acceptance rate and is more accessible, but both consider a range of factors beyond GPA and test scores. - Which university is better for business majors?
DePaul’s Driehaus College of Business is nationally recognized and offers more majors, internship opportunities, and connections in the business community. Roosevelt does offer business programs but is not as well known in this area. - Can I live on campus at Roosevelt University?
Yes, but on-campus housing is more limited compared to DePaul. Most Roosevelt students commute or live in nearby apartments. DePaul, especially at Lincoln Park, offers more traditional residence halls and student housing. - How do the performing arts programs compare?
Both universities have strong performing arts offerings. Roosevelt’s Chicago College of Performing Arts is highly respected, especially for music and theater. DePaul’s Theatre School and School of Music are also highly ranked, with strong ties to Chicago’s arts scene. - Are there differences in campus diversity?
Roosevelt is known for its diverse student body and focus on social justice. DePaul is also diverse, particularly in its urban campuses, though Roosevelt’s history and mission place a special emphasis on inclusivity. - Which university has better job placement rates?
DePaul generally reports higher job placement rates, largely due to its size, reputation, and larger alumni network. However, Roosevelt graduates in certain fields, especially public service and the arts, also find strong employment opportunities in Chicago.
Alternatives and Other Considerations
If you’re considering Roosevelt and DePaul, you might also look at other Chicago-area universities such as Loyola University Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), or Columbia College Chicago. Each offers unique programs and campus cultures. Public universities like UIC may offer lower tuition for Illinois residents, while Loyola and Columbia have their own strengths in specific fields.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal priorities. Both Roosevelt and DePaul offer quality education and access to Chicago’s resources, but their differences in size, campus life, and academic focus can make one a better fit than the other for individual students.
See the main Roosevelt University pros and cons.