Choosing between Roosevelt University and DePaul University can be challenging for prospective students interested in studying in Chicago. This listicle covers ten key differences between these two institutions, including academics, campus life, cost, and more, to help you decide which school better fits your goals and preferences.
1. Institutional History and Mission
Roosevelt University was founded in 1945 and emphasizes social justice, diversity, and community engagement as core parts of its mission. In contrast, DePaul University, established in 1898, is the largest Catholic university in the U.S. and integrates Vincentian values such as service and leadership into its educational approach. This foundational difference influences campus culture and academic priorities at both schools.
2. Campus Locations and Environment
Roosevelt University has two campuses: the downtown Chicago campus in the Loop and the Schaumburg campus in the suburbs. The Loop campus provides a highly urban experience with proximity to business, arts, and government centers. DePaul also has two main campuses: Lincoln Park, which offers a traditional collegiate atmosphere near Lake Michigan, and the Loop campus, which caters more to graduate and professional programs. Students seeking a classic college vibe may prefer DePaul’s Lincoln Park campus, while Roosevelt’s urban setting appeals to those wanting immediate city immersion.
3. Academic Programs and Strengths
Roosevelt University is known for its strong programs in performing arts, education, and social sciences, with the Chicago College of Performing Arts being a notable division. DePaul offers a wider range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in business through the Driehaus College of Business, computing and digital media, and law. For students focused on business or technology, DePaul’s extensive offerings and industry connections may provide more opportunities.
4. Student Population and Diversity
Roosevelt University enrolls about 7,000 students, with a strong commitment to diversity, including a high percentage of first-generation college students and underrepresented minorities. DePaul is significantly larger, with over 22,000 students, and also prides itself on a diverse student body but with a larger international student presence. Both universities have active multicultural organizations, but Roosevelt’s mission-driven approach places extra emphasis on social equity and inclusion.
5. Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition at Roosevelt University for full-time undergraduates is approximately $36,000 per year, slightly less than DePaul’s rate, which is around $38,000 annually. Both schools offer merit scholarships and need-based aid, but Roosevelt is often recognized for its generous financial aid packages aimed at low-income students. Prospective students should compare net costs after aid to understand the true financial impact.
6. Campus Facilities and Resources
DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus features modern residence halls, a large library system, and advanced computing labs, supporting a vibrant on-campus life. Roosevelt’s downtown campus is integrated into the city’s architecture, with smaller residence options and specialized facilities like the Ganz Performing Arts Center. DePaul’s larger scale allows for more extensive student services, but Roosevelt’s urban setting offers unique access to cultural institutions.
7. Athletics and Extracurriculars
Roosevelt University competes in NCAA Division II within the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, offering sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball. DePaul fields NCAA Division I teams, especially well-known for its men’s and women’s basketball programs competing in the Big East Conference. Students interested in high-level collegiate sports or wide extracurricular options may find DePaul’s offerings more robust.
8. Internship and Career Opportunities
Both universities benefit from Chicago’s robust job market, but DePaul’s larger alumni network and stronger ties with corporate partners often translate into more extensive internship and job placement opportunities, particularly in business, technology, and law. Roosevelt’s downtown location also provides access to internships, especially in non-profits and arts organizations, aligning with its social justice focus.
9. Class Sizes and Student-Faculty Ratio
Roosevelt University maintains smaller class sizes, with an average student-to-faculty ratio of about 13:1, allowing for more personalized attention and engagement. DePaul’s ratio is slightly higher, around 14:1, with larger lecture classes in some programs but still offering many small seminars. Students who prioritize close interaction with professors might lean toward Roosevelt.
10. Religious Affiliation and Campus Culture
DePaul University is a Catholic institution and integrates its Vincentian Catholic heritage into campus life, including service programs and campus ministry, though it welcomes students of all faiths. Roosevelt University is secular, emphasizing inclusivity and social justice without religious affiliation. This distinction may influence the campus atmosphere and student organizations available.
How to Choose
When deciding between Roosevelt University and DePaul University, consider what matters most to you academically, socially, and financially. If you want a smaller, socially conscious school with a strong urban focus and performing arts programs, Roosevelt might be the better fit. If you seek a larger university with diverse program options, including top-tier business and law schools, plus Division I athletics and a traditional campus environment, DePaul could be ideal. Also, weigh tuition costs, financial aid offers, and how each campus culture aligns with your values and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Roosevelt and DePaul located close to each other?
Yes, both have campuses in downtown Chicago’s Loop area, but DePaul also has a separate Lincoln Park campus about 4 miles north, offering a more traditional college setting.
Q: Which university has better business programs?
DePaul’s Driehaus College of Business is well-established with strong industry connections, making it generally stronger than Roosevelt’s business offerings.
Q: Is Roosevelt University more affordable than DePaul?
Tuition is slightly lower at Roosevelt, and it tends to have generous financial aid for low-income students, but actual costs depend on individual aid packages.
Q: Do both schools offer on-campus housing?
Yes, but DePaul has more extensive residence halls, especially at Lincoln Park. Roosevelt’s housing is more limited and primarily at the downtown campus.
Q: What is the student diversity like at each school?
Both universities have diverse student bodies, but Roosevelt emphasizes first-generation and underrepresented students more explicitly in its mission.
Q: Which school has better internship opportunities?
DePaul’s larger alumni network and corporate relationships often provide more internship options, especially in business and technology fields.
Final Thoughts
Roosevelt University and DePaul University both offer valuable educational experiences in Chicago but cater to different student priorities. Roosevelt stands out for its social justice mission, smaller size, and arts programs, while DePaul’s larger scale, Catholic heritage, and comprehensive academics appeal to students wanting broader program choices and traditional campus life. By carefully evaluating your academic goals, financial situation, and desired campus environment, you can choose the university that best supports your future success.
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