Chicago State University
The Vibe Check
Chicago State University feels like a tight-knit community hub nestled within the vibrant city, where students navigate a blend of urban grit and supportive camaraderie. It's a place where the hustle of Chicago meets the accessibility of a smaller campus, fostering resilience and personal connections among peers.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
CSU excels in practical fields like Health Professions, Business, and Criminal Justice, with programs tailored to urban workforce needs. Teaching quality emphasizes hands-on learning and mentorship, though research opportunities are more limited compared to larger research universities, focusing on community-engaged projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Chicago
Students dive into Chicago's endless offerings, from catching blues at Buddy Guy's Legends to exploring Millennium Park or Lake Michigan beaches. Weekends might include Lollapalooza, deep-dish pizza runs, or volunteering in diverse neighborhoods like Bronzeville, blending urban adventures with affordable local hangouts.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($42,778):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
CSU's campus is generally safe with 24/7 security patrols and emergency blue lights, but students should stay alert in the surrounding South Side neighborhood. The university collaborates with Chicago Police for off-campus safety, though crime rates in the area require vigilance.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition with low net price and high Pell Grant access for financial accessibility
- ✓ Strong programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Criminal Justice tailored to Chicago's job market
- ✓ Diverse, urban campus with small class sizes fostering personalized attention
- ✓ Location in Chicago provides unparalleled internship and cultural opportunities
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (21.1%) and retention rate (46.8%) indicating potential challenges in student support and completion
- ✗ Smaller enrollment (1,414) may limit campus resources and extracurricular variety compared to larger universities
- ✗ Urban setting in a high-crime area requires extra caution for off-campus safety
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Chicago State University is known for its accessible public education in an urban setting, with strong programs in Psychology, Business & Marketing, Criminal Justice, Health Professions, Social Sciences, and Education. It emphasizes serving diverse, underrepresented students from Chicago and the South Side, providing career-focused training and community partnerships.
Chicago State University has an acceptance rate of 40.52%, making it moderately selective—applicants need a solid high school GPA (around 2.5-3.0) and test scores (SAT ~900-1100 or ACT 18-23) to compete. With enrollment at 1,414, it's accessible for in-state students, but demonstrating fit through essays and activities can improve chances.
Campus life at CSU is intimate and city-integrated, with a small student body allowing for close faculty interactions and clubs focused on cultural, professional, and service interests. Students enjoy access to Chicago's vibrant scene—festivals, museums, and sports—while campus events like homecoming and student organizations build a supportive community amid the urban hustle.
Yes, for many students, given the low average net price of $10,133 and in-state tuition of $12,754, which is below national averages for public universities. With 10-year median earnings of $42,778, it offers reasonable ROI, especially in growing fields like Health Professions, but success depends on leveraging support services to overcome the low graduation rate and secure internships in Chicago's economy.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,880
- In-State Tuition $12,754
- Zip Code 60628
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $10,133 and in-state tuition at $12,754, CSU offers strong affordability, especially for low-income students (55% Pell Grant recipients). The 10-year median earnings of $42,778 provide a solid ROI for public university grads, though the low graduation rate suggests maximizing aid and support to boost long-term value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.