Roosevelt University and Loyola University Chicago are both respected private universities in Chicago, but they differ significantly in size, academic focus, campus culture, and cost. Choosing between them depends on your academic interests, desired campus experience, and personal priorities. Below, we break down their key pros and cons, offer background, and provide practical context to help you make an informed decision.
Background: Roosevelt University and Loyola University Chicago
Roosevelt University was founded in 1945 with a strong commitment to social justice, diversity, and access to higher education. Its main campus is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, with a second campus in Schaumburg, Illinois. Roosevelt is known for its intimate class sizes, diverse student body, and urban engagement. It offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in performing arts, business, education, and social sciences.
Loyola University Chicago, established in 1870, is a Jesuit Catholic university. It is one of the largest Jesuit universities in the U.S. and has four campuses in the Chicago area, with the main Lake Shore campus in Rogers Park, right on Lake Michigan. Loyola is recognized for strong programs in the health sciences, law, business, and the liberal arts. Its Jesuit values emphasize academic excellence, service, and ethical leadership.
Academic Offerings and Reputation
- Loyola University is generally considered more prestigious nationally, with higher rankings in many undergraduate and graduate programs. It is especially well-known for its law school, Stritch School of Medicine, and Quinlan School of Business.
- Roosevelt University is respected regionally, particularly for the Chicago College of Performing Arts, and has a strong reputation for social justice programs, education, and hospitality management.
Both universities are accredited and offer a broad range of majors. However, if national reputation or research opportunities are a top priority, Loyola has the edge. If you seek a specialized program like performing arts or value a social justice mission, Roosevelt may be more appealing.
Campus Life and Student Experience
- Loyola provides a more traditional, residential college experience, especially at the Lake Shore campus. Students have access to on-campus housing, Division I athletics, over 250 student organizations, and a vibrant campus community. The university’s Jesuit identity also shapes many campus activities and service projects.
- Roosevelt offers an urban, commuter-oriented experience. The downtown campus is integrated with the city, and many students live off-campus or commute. There are fewer traditional campus amenities and athletic programs, but students benefit from proximity to Chicago’s cultural and professional opportunities.
For students seeking a classic campus feel with active student life, Loyola is likely more attractive. Those preferring direct access to city life, internships, and a diverse, inclusive environment may gravitate toward Roosevelt.
Costs, Financial Aid, and Value
Both universities are private and have comparable sticker prices for tuition and fees, though actual costs can vary significantly based on financial aid and scholarships.
- Loyola University Chicago (2023-2024): Tuition is about $50,000 per year, with additional costs for room, board, and fees. Loyola offers significant need-based and merit-based aid; most students do not pay the full sticker price.
- Roosevelt University (2023-2024): Tuition is around $33,000 per year, which is lower than Loyola’s. Roosevelt also provides merit and need-based scholarships, and its urban setting may allow for lower living costs if students live at home or off-campus.
Loyola’s higher tuition is partially offset by its larger endowment and more generous financial aid packages, but Roosevelt’s lower base cost can make it more affordable for some students, particularly commuters. Always use each school’s net price calculator to estimate your actual cost.
Location and Campus Environment
- Roosevelt is located in downtown Chicago, steps from cultural landmarks like the Art Institute, Millennium Park, and major public transit lines. Its vertical campus in the historic Auditorium Building and modern Wabash Building means students are immersed in city life. This location is ideal for students interested in arts, business, or urban studies.
- Loyola offers two very different campus experiences: the scenic Lake Shore campus in Rogers Park, with a traditional quad and lakefront views, and the Water Tower campus downtown for some graduate and professional programs. The Lake Shore campus provides a quieter, more self-contained environment, while the downtown campus offers urban access similar to Roosevelt’s.
Consider how much you value a traditional campus versus immediate access to the city. Loyola’s Lake Shore campus feels more like a classic college setting, while Roosevelt’s urban campus is deeply integrated with downtown Chicago.
Student Body and Diversity
Roosevelt University is known for its diverse student population and commitment to inclusion. It is designated as a Minority Serving Institution and a Hispanic Serving Institution, with around 50% of its students identifying as students of color. Many students are first-generation college attendees or come from non-traditional backgrounds.
Loyola University Chicago has a somewhat less diverse student body, but it has made efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in recent years. About 40% of undergraduates identify as students of color. Loyola’s Jesuit heritage attracts students interested in faith-based education and service, but it is open to students of all backgrounds.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Networks
Loyola’s larger size and higher national profile translate into a broader alumni network, which can be valuable for internships and job placement, especially in fields like law, business, and healthcare. Loyola’s Career Development Center offers extensive resources, and the university’s reputation can open doors with employers across the Midwest and beyond.
Roosevelt alumni often have strong connections in Chicago’s performing arts, hospitality, and public service sectors. The university’s urban location allows students to intern and work in the city during school, which can lead directly to full-time employment. However, Roosevelt’s national reach is more limited compared to Loyola’s.
How to Choose Between Roosevelt and Loyola
- Identify your academic interests. If you want to study law, health sciences, or business at a nationally recognized program, Loyola may be the better fit. If you are drawn to performing arts or social justice, Roosevelt could be ideal.
- Consider your preferred campus experience. Do you want a traditional, residential campus with lots of student activities, or an urban, commuter-friendly environment?
- Evaluate costs and financial aid. Use each school’s net price calculator and compare scholarships and aid offers.
- Visit both campuses. Experiencing the environment firsthand can clarify your preferences.
- Think about career goals and network. Which school has stronger connections in your desired field?
Common Pros and Cons Summarized
- Loyola Pros: Higher national ranking, larger alumni network, traditional campus, strong programs in health, law, and business, more student life options.
- Loyola Cons: Higher sticker price, less urban integration at Lake Shore, less diversity than Roosevelt, religious affiliation may not suit everyone.
- Roosevelt Pros: Lower tuition, urban campus, high diversity, strong social justice focus, excellent performing arts programs.
- Roosevelt Cons: Fewer campus amenities, less national recognition, more commuter students, smaller alumni network.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Loyola University Chicago a religious school?
Loyola is a Jesuit Catholic university, but it welcomes students of all faiths (or none). Its Jesuit values are reflected in some course requirements and campus life, but religious participation is not mandatory. - Does Roosevelt University have on-campus housing?
Yes, Roosevelt offers on-campus housing in its Wabash Building, though many students choose to commute or live off-campus. Housing is limited compared to Loyola. - Which university is better for business majors?
Loyola’s Quinlan School of Business is larger and more highly ranked, with greater internship and networking opportunities. Roosevelt offers business programs as well, but with a smaller scale and more regional focus. - Are there athletic programs at both schools?
Loyola competes in NCAA Division I athletics, including basketball and soccer. Roosevelt has NAIA sports teams, but athletics are less central to campus life. - Can I transfer between Roosevelt and Loyola?
Yes, both accept transfer students, subject to credit evaluation and admission requirements. Check each school’s transfer policies for details. - Which school is safer?
Both schools have campus security and are located in urban areas. Loyola’s Lake Shore campus is in a quieter neighborhood, while Roosevelt’s downtown location is busier but well-patrolled. Safety depends on personal habits and awareness as much as location.
Alternatives and Other Considerations
If neither Roosevelt nor Loyola seems like the perfect fit, Chicago is home to many other higher education options:
- DePaul University: Another large private university with urban and suburban campuses; strong in business, communications, and theatre.
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC): A large public research university, generally more affordable for Illinois residents, with strong health sciences and STEM programs.
- Columbia College Chicago: Focused on arts and media, with a downtown campus and flexible programs.
Each of these schools has its own strengths and campus culture. Consider visiting, comparing programs, and reviewing financial aid options before making your final choice.
Conclusion
Choosing between Roosevelt University and Loyola University Chicago is a personal decision that depends on your academic interests, desired campus culture, and budget. Loyola offers a more traditional and nationally recognized college experience, while Roosevelt provides a diverse, urban, and socially conscious environment. Both can provide a strong education and valuable opportunities, especially if you match their strengths with your own goals.
See the main Roosevelt University pros and cons.