Choosing between Roosevelt University and DePaul University can be challenging for prospective students looking at Chicago-based private universities. This listicle breaks down the key factors—academic programs, campus life, tuition, and more—to help you understand what each institution offers and which might be the best fit for your educational goals.
1. Academic Programs and Strengths
Roosevelt University is known for its strong emphasis on social justice and liberal arts education, with particularly notable programs in education, business, and performing arts. Its Chicago College of Performing Arts is highly regarded for music and theater. DePaul University, meanwhile, offers a broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs, especially excelling in business through the Driehaus College of Business and computing via the College of Computing and Digital Media.
2. Campus Locations and Facilities
Roosevelt’s main campus is located in Chicago’s Loop, offering students immediate access to downtown amenities and cultural institutions. Its Wabash building houses modern classrooms and performance spaces. DePaul operates two main campuses: the Lincoln Park campus, known for its classic collegiate feel and proximity to residential neighborhoods, and the Loop campus, which caters more to business and law students with state-of-the-art facilities.
3. Student Population and Diversity
DePaul University is significantly larger, enrolling over 22,000 students compared to Roosevelt’s approximately 7,000. Both universities boast diverse student bodies, but Roosevelt especially highlights its commitment to inclusivity and social justice in its mission, reflected in its diverse enrollment and support services for first-generation and minority students.
4. Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition at Roosevelt University for the 2023–2024 academic year is approximately $34,500 per year for undergraduates, whereas DePaul’s tuition is slightly higher, around $42,000 annually. Both schools offer merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid, but Roosevelt’s smaller size can sometimes translate into more personalized financial aid counseling.
5. Class Sizes and Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Roosevelt University averages smaller class sizes, with a student-to-faculty ratio near 13:1, which promotes a more intimate learning environment and closer interaction with professors. DePaul’s ratio is about 15:1, still favorable compared to many large universities, but its larger enrollment means some introductory courses can be more lecture-based.
6. Campus Life and Student Organizations
Both universities offer active student life, but the experience differs. Roosevelt’s smaller campus and focus on social justice attract student groups centered on activism, arts, and community service. DePaul has over 300 student organizations ranging from Greek life to professional clubs, reflecting its larger and more varied student body.
7. Career Services and Internship Opportunities
DePaul’s career services are extensive, leveraging its network in Chicago’s business and tech sectors to provide robust internship pipelines and job placement assistance. Roosevelt also offers strong career support, particularly for education and social work students, with a focus on community partnerships and experiential learning.
8. Graduate Programs and Continuing Education
DePaul offers a wider array of graduate programs, including law, business, education, and computing, with flexible evening and online options catering to working professionals. Roosevelt provides graduate degrees primarily in education, business, and psychology, often emphasizing applied research and community engagement.
9. Athletics and Recreation
Roosevelt competes in NCAA Division III athletics as the Lakers, with a smaller athletics program focused on student participation and wellness. DePaul’s Blue Demons compete in NCAA Division I, primarily in basketball, with a strong sports culture and greater spectator engagement.
10. Alumni Network and Reputation
DePaul’s larger alumni base spans over 200,000 graduates worldwide, offering extensive networking opportunities, especially in Chicago’s business and arts communities. Roosevelt’s alumni network is smaller but active, particularly in social justice fields, education, and the performing arts, reflecting its mission-driven focus.
How to Choose
When deciding between Roosevelt University and DePaul University, prioritize what matters most to you: program offerings, campus environment, and career goals. If you seek a smaller, socially conscious school with strong performing arts and education programs, Roosevelt may be a better fit. If you want a larger university with diverse academic options, strong business and computing programs, and NCAA Division I athletics, DePaul might suit you better. Consider campus location, class size, and financial aid packages carefully, and try to visit both campuses if possible to get a feel for the atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which university has better business programs?
DePaul’s Driehaus College of Business is highly ranked and offers extensive networking in Chicago’s business community, making it a strong choice for business students.
Q: Are both universities located in downtown Chicago?
Roosevelt’s main campus is downtown in the Loop, while DePaul has two campuses: one in the Loop and a larger one in Lincoln Park, a residential neighborhood north of downtown.
Q: How do tuition costs compare?
Roosevelt’s tuition is generally lower than DePaul’s, but financial aid availability can vary. Prospective students should compare net costs based on individual aid offers.
Q: Does Roosevelt offer NCAA Division I sports?
No, Roosevelt competes in NCAA Division III, focusing on student participation rather than competitive athletics.
Q: Which school is better for performing arts?
Roosevelt’s Chicago College of Performing Arts is well-known for music and theater, making it the preferred choice for students focused on those fields.
Q: Are there online degree options?
DePaul offers more extensive online and evening programs, especially at the graduate level, while Roosevelt has some online courses but fewer fully online degrees.
Final Thoughts
Roosevelt University and DePaul University each offer distinct advantages depending on your academic interests and lifestyle preferences. Roosevelt’s commitment to social justice and smaller size provide a close-knit, mission-driven environment ideal for education and the arts. DePaul’s larger scale and diverse program offerings appeal to students seeking comprehensive academic options and strong professional connections in a vibrant urban setting. Careful consideration of your priorities, including program strength, campus culture, and financial factors, will guide you to the best choice for your college experience.
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