Roosevelt University stands out among Chicago’s many universities for its strong social justice mission, urban campus, and focus on access and diversity. When compared with other Chicago institutions like the University of Chicago, Northwestern, DePaul, Loyola, and UIC, Roosevelt offers a unique combination of smaller class sizes, distinctive programs, and a commitment to inclusivity. Exploring these differences can help prospective students and their families make informed decisions about higher education in Chicago.
Background: Chicago’s Diverse Higher Education Landscape
Chicago is home to a rich array of universities, ranging from elite private research institutions to large public campuses and specialized colleges. Major universities in Chicago include:
- University of Chicago (UChicago): A globally renowned private research university in Hyde Park.
- Northwestern University: A top-ranked private research university based in Evanston, with a downtown Chicago campus for certain programs.
- DePaul University: The largest Catholic university in the U.S., known for business, law, and liberal arts.
- Loyola University Chicago: A Jesuit university with a strong liberal arts and health sciences focus.
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC): The city’s largest public research university.
- Columbia College Chicago: A private college specializing in arts and media.
- Roosevelt University: A private, non-profit university with a social justice mission, founded in 1945.
Each institution has its own identity, academic strengths, and campus culture, making the choice between them highly personal and dependent on a student’s goals.
Roosevelt University: Mission and Identity
Roosevelt University was founded on principles of inclusivity and social justice, aiming to provide higher education to all qualified students regardless of background. This mission is still central to its identity today. The university’s main campus is located in downtown Chicago’s historic Auditorium Building, placing students in the heart of the city’s cultural and business districts. Roosevelt also has a suburban campus in Schaumburg, focusing on adult and professional studies.
Key features of Roosevelt University:
- Social Justice Focus: Programs and campus initiatives emphasize equity, advocacy, and community engagement.
- Diverse Student Body: Roosevelt is known for enrolling students from a wide range of ethnic, socioeconomic, and age groups.
- Smaller Class Sizes: The average class size is around 20 students, allowing for personalized attention.
- Urban Campus: The downtown location provides access to internships, cultural events, and professional opportunities.
Academic Offerings and Special Programs
Roosevelt offers more than 70 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs across six colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences, Heller College of Business, and the Chicago College of Performing Arts. Notable programs include:
- Chicago College of Performing Arts: Renowned for music and theater; attracts students nationwide.
- Social Justice Studies: Interdisciplinary programs focused on public policy, advocacy, and community organizing.
- Business and Hospitality: Strong links to Chicago’s business community and hospitality industry.
- Education and Health Sciences: Teacher preparation and health-related degrees with practical field experiences.
While Roosevelt provides a broad liberal arts education, it is smaller and less research-intensive than UChicago or Northwestern, and more focused on teaching and professional preparation.
Comparing Student Life and Campus Culture
Student life at Roosevelt is shaped by its downtown setting and mission-driven culture. The university hosts a variety of student organizations, including advocacy groups, performance ensembles, and professional societies. Because of its location, Roosevelt students often engage in internships and service projects throughout the city.
In contrast:
- UChicago and Northwestern: Offer more traditional residential campus experiences, with extensive research opportunities and Division I athletics.
- DePaul and Loyola: Like Roosevelt, are urban and commuter-friendly, but have larger enrollments and religious affiliations (Catholic and Jesuit, respectively).
- UIC: As a major public university, provides a large, diverse campus with significant research and health sciences programs.
Roosevelt’s smaller size and emphasis on inclusion foster a close-knit community, but the university does not have the same level of campus amenities or athletics as larger schools.
Admissions Selectivity and Student Demographics
Roosevelt University has a more accessible admissions process than highly selective institutions like UChicago or Northwestern. Its acceptance rate typically ranges from 70-85%, making it a welcoming option for a broad range of students.
Key points about Roosevelt’s student body:
- Diversity: The university has been recognized for enrolling a high percentage of students of color and first-generation college students.
- Commuter-Friendly: Many students live off campus or commute, reflecting the university’s urban and adult learner focus.
- Graduate/Adult Learners: Roosevelt serves a significant number of part-time and non-traditional students, in addition to traditional undergraduates.
By comparison, UChicago and Northwestern are highly selective, with acceptance rates below 10%, and attract more out-of-state and international students. DePaul, Loyola, and UIC have moderate selectivity and larger undergraduate populations.
Costs, Financial Aid, and Value
Cost is a major factor when comparing Chicago universities. As a private institution, Roosevelt’s tuition is similar to other private universities in the city, but generally lower than UChicago or Northwestern. Roosevelt is known for offering significant need-based and merit-based scholarships, which can make the net price more affordable for many students.
Typical cost comparisons:
- Roosevelt University: Tuition is in the mid-to-upper $30,000s per year (before aid).
- UChicago/Northwestern: Tuition and fees typically exceed $60,000 per year (before aid).
- DePaul/Loyola: Tuition is generally in the $40,000-$50,000 range.
- UIC: As a public university, in-state tuition is significantly lower, making it the most affordable option for Illinois residents.
Roosevelt’s financial aid packages often include grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. The university’s commitment to serving underrepresented and lower-income students is reflected in its aid policies, but prospective students should carefully compare net costs using each school’s financial aid calculator.
Campus Safety and Support Services
Safety is a common concern for students considering an urban university. Roosevelt University’s downtown campus is located in a busy commercial area with campus security and partnerships with local law enforcement. The university provides:
- 24/7 campus security and emergency alert systems
- Support services for mental health, academic success, and career counseling
- Programs and workshops on personal safety and wellness
Most Chicago universities, including DePaul, Loyola, UIC, and Columbia College, also have robust campus safety programs and work closely with city police. Students should always be aware of their surroundings and follow university safety guidelines, particularly when traveling at night or off campus.
How to Choose: Factors to Consider
Choosing between Roosevelt and other Chicago universities depends on several factors:
- Academic Interests: Does the university offer your desired major or program?
- Campus Environment: Do you prefer a small, close-knit community or a large, bustling campus?
- Cost and Financial Aid: What will your net price be after scholarships and aid?
- Location: Is being downtown or in a specific neighborhood important for internships, commuting, or lifestyle?
- Mission and Values: Does the university’s mission align with your goals?
- Student Support: Are there resources for your academic and personal needs?
Visiting campuses, attending information sessions, and talking with current students are excellent ways to assess fit.
Common Misconceptions and Challenges
Some prospective students believe that only highly selective or research-intensive universities can offer a quality education or strong career prospects. In reality, Roosevelt and similar institutions can provide:
- Smaller class sizes and more faculty interaction
- Strong connections to local employers and community organizations
- Opportunities for leadership, internships, and hands-on learning
However, Roosevelt may not offer the same breadth of research opportunities, alumni networks, or campus facilities as larger universities. Students should be realistic about what they want from their college experience and what different institutions can offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Roosevelt University a good school?
Roosevelt is regionally accredited and respected for its commitment to social justice, diversity, and student support. Its strengths are in teaching, performing arts, and community engagement. It may not have the global prestige of UChicago or Northwestern, but it offers a quality education, especially for students seeking smaller classes and an urban experience. - How does Roosevelt University’s reputation compare to other Chicago schools?
Roosevelt is well-regarded within Chicago, particularly for its performing arts and social justice programs. It is less selective and less research-oriented than UChicago, Northwestern, or Loyola, but known for access and inclusivity. - What is the campus environment like at Roosevelt?
Roosevelt’s downtown campus is vibrant, diverse, and commuter-friendly. The university has a strong sense of community, but fewer traditional campus amenities and residential options than larger universities. - Can I transfer credits to or from Roosevelt University?
Roosevelt has transfer agreements with many local community colleges and accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions, subject to evaluation. Always consult with an advisor to ensure your credits will transfer as needed. - What kind of financial aid does Roosevelt offer?
Roosevelt provides a mix of merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, federal and state aid, and work-study opportunities. Many students receive substantial aid, but actual packages vary by individual circumstances. - Are there opportunities for internships and jobs in Chicago?
Yes. Roosevelt’s downtown location makes it easy for students to access internships, part-time jobs, and professional networking in business, arts, government, and non-profits throughout the city.
Alternatives and Final Thoughts
Roosevelt University is one of many strong higher education options in Chicago. Students seeking a larger campus, more research opportunities, or a different campus culture may consider UIC, DePaul, Loyola, or Columbia College. Those seeking elite academics and resources may look to UChicago or Northwestern. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your academic interests, career goals, financial situation, and preferred learning environment.
Roosevelt’s unique strengths—social justice mission, small classes, accessible admissions, and urban engagement—make it a compelling option for students who value diversity, community, and practical experience in the heart of Chicago.
See the main Roosevelt University pros and cons.