The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago
Acceptance rate
34.5%
2025
Peer median 83.3%
Tuition per year
$21,780
$40,316 with room and board
Peer median $18,677
Undergraduates
21
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 11 : 1
“Peers” are all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a renowned institution dedicated to the field of psychology and related disciplines. Founded in 1979, the school has developed a reputation for its innovative approach to education, emphasizing both academic rigor and practical application. One of the school’s notable features is its commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is reflected in its programs and community initiatives. The Chicago School offers a wide range of degrees at both the master’s and doctoral levels, focusing on areas such as clinical psychology, organizational leadership, and forensic psychology. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in various professional settings, preparing them for impactful careers in mental health, education, and corporate environments.
In terms of campus culture, The Chicago School fosters a vibrant, supportive environment that encourages collaboration and personal growth. The school’s motto, "The Future of Psychology," encapsulates its mission to advance the field through research, innovation, and community engagement. Students benefit from a robust network of faculty members who are not only educators but also practitioners and researchers in their fields. This real-world experience enhances the learning process, providing students with valuable insights and mentorship opportunities. Located in the heart of Chicago, the school offers students access to a rich cultural landscape, including numerous psychological services and community organizations for internships and volunteer work. This combination of a strong academic foundation, a commitment to social responsibility, and a prime urban location makes The Chicago School of Professional Psychology a leading choice for those pursuing careers in psychology and related fields.
Trends in Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Gender Ratios
The tuition fees at The Chicago School have shown a significant upward trend over the years, particularly for graduate students. Starting from around $23,574 in 2014, the fees increased to $26,136 by 2024. Notably, there was a decrease in tuition fees in 2019, where the graduate tuition dropped to $22,601, which may have been a strategic move to attract more students amidst a competitive educational landscape. However, the overall trajectory indicates a rising cost of education, which often raises concerns regarding student debt and financial accessibility.
In terms of student enrollment, the number of graduate students has gradually declined from 2,874 in 2013 to approximately 1,262 in 2023. This decline could reflect broader trends in the higher education sector, such as a decrease in demand for graduate programs or shifts in student preferences toward online learning or alternative education pathways. Conversely, there has been a gradual increase in the number of undergraduate students, albeit starting from a very low base, which could signify a growing interest in undergraduate offerings.
Additionally, the gender ratios among graduate students have remained relatively stable, with female students consistently comprising about 80% of the graduate population over the years. This gender imbalance in graduate programs is a critical issue, as it may indicate broader societal trends regarding gender representation in higher education fields. In undergraduate programs, the gender ratio seems to be more balanced, particularly in 2021, where male students made up approximately 28%.
Overall, the combination of rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment figures suggests that The Chicago School must adapt to these trends to maintain competitiveness and ensure accessibility for future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Chicago
- Nearest international airport
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 9 mi
- Also known as
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Chicago
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Michele Nealon (President)
- Phone
- 3123296600
- Address
- 325 N Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60654
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 83.3% · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2023: men 0.0%, women 9.7%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at The Chicago School
The Chicago School at Chicago has shown notable fluctuations in its ranking and admission rates over recent years. In 2023, the school ranked 40th, which is a significant drop from its previous position of 20th in 2022. This decline in ranking may be indicative of increased competition among educational institutions, particularly in the field of psychology, where new programs and schools are emerging with innovative curricula and research opportunities.
The admission rates reveal an interesting gender dynamic. For the class of 2023, the admission rate for female applicants was approximately 9.68%, reflecting a competitive application process. However, the absence of data for previous years makes it difficult to draw conclusions about trends over time. The lack of information on male admission rates for the same year raises further questions about the school's commitment to gender equity in its admissions process.
Moreover, the number of students who were denied admission underscores the selectivity of The Chicago School. In 2023, with a total of 39 denials, it is evident that the institution maintains high standards for acceptance, potentially ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are admitted. The presence of deferred admissions suggests that the school may also be strategically managing its enrollment numbers, allowing for a more flexible approach to filling seats in future classes.
Overall, while the school faces challenges in maintaining its ranking, the selective admission process reflects its commitment to attracting high-caliber students. Moving forward, it will be essential for The Chicago School to continue adapting to the changing educational landscape to enhance its reputation and appeal among prospective students.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data at The Chicago School
The admission data from The Chicago School at Chicago reveals a notable absence of specific performance metrics for the years examined, from 2007 to 2023. This lack of data on SAT and ACT scores, as well as the number of applicants who submitted these scores, raises questions about the transparency and accessibility of admission criteria. Typically, standardized test scores play a crucial role in the college admission process, serving as a common benchmark for assessing student preparedness.
In recent years, many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to decide whether or not to submit standardized test scores. This trend has been particularly pronounced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional testing schedules. Schools across the nation have been reevaluating the role of standardized testing in their admissions processes, with some arguing that these tests can perpetuate inequities among applicants.
The absence of detailed admissions data from The Chicago School could suggest a similar shift towards a more holistic evaluation process, focusing on other aspects of the applicant's profile. However, without transparency in the reported metrics, prospective students and stakeholders are left without critical information to gauge the competitiveness of applicants or the school's standards. Moving forward, it will be important for The Chicago School to provide clearer data and insights into their admissions processes to foster trust and informed decision-making among applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 3 in 10
29 applicants in 2025, 34.5% admitted
10 admitted 19 not admitted Yield 40.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's107 (7% international)
- Forensic Psychology · Master's52 (4% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Doctoral51 (10% international)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's32 (19% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's19 (21% international)
- Applied Behavior Analysis · Master's13 (8% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data from The Chicago School at Chicago
The graduation data from The Chicago School at Chicago for 2023 reveals a significant focus on master's and doctorate degrees, particularly in the field of Counseling Psychology and Clinical Psychology. Notably, the Counseling Psychology program graduated 91 master's students, indicating a robust demand for professionals in this area. This aligns with the growing societal emphasis on mental health awareness and the increased need for qualified counselors, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened mental health issues globally.
In contrast, the doctorate programs in Clinical Psychology also show a promising output with 57 graduates, alongside 4 international students. This reflects a commitment to developing advanced practitioners and researchers in psychology, which is essential as the field continues to evolve and address complex mental health challenges.
Interestingly, the data shows no bachelor’s degree graduates in any of the listed programs, which may suggest a strategic focus on higher-level education or a possible gap in undergraduate offerings. This could potentially limit the pipeline of candidates for advanced studies in psychology, and may prompt the institution to consider expanding its undergraduate programs to ensure a steady influx of students pursuing graduate education.
Moreover, the international student representation in master’s programs, particularly in Mental Health Counseling, is noteworthy, with 2 graduates. This highlights the school's appeal to a global audience, which is vital in fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment, essential for training future professionals who will work in varied cultural contexts.
Overall, the data provides insights into the evolving landscape of psychology education and the importance of mental health professionals in today’s society, suggesting that The Chicago School is well-positioned to meet these demands while also considering the enhancement of its undergraduate offerings.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,795-$56,717 | |||
| Clinical Psychology. | $61,542-$82,720 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | $61,542-$82,720 | |||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | $61,542-$82,720 | |||
| School Psychology. | $61,542-$82,720 | |||
| Forensic Psychology. | $61,542-$82,720 | |||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | $61,542-$82,720 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $68,097 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Organizational Leadership. | $123,374 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - |
Students
1,100 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 24:76
- Continuing undergraduates 15
- Graduate students 1,079
- Transfers and others 6
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (21)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at The Chicago School in 2023
The data from The Chicago School at Chicago for the year 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its student body. Notably, the graduate program stands out with a total enrollment of 1,262 students, comprised of 19.2% males and a striking 80.8% females. This substantial female majority in graduate studies may reflect broader trends in higher education, where women often outnumber men in various fields, particularly in psychology and related disciplines.
In contrast, the undergraduate population, particularly among continuing students, shows a smaller group of 23 individuals with an overwhelming female representation of 87%. The transfer students, totaling 11, also reflect a similar trend with 63.6% being female. These statistics indicate a potential pattern where female students are not only pursuing but also succeeding in educational environments at different levels.
The demographic breakdown further highlights the diversity of the student body, with white students representing a significant portion across the categories. However, there is limited detailed data on the representation of other ethnic groups within the undergraduates' composition, as some figures remain unreported.
Overall, the data suggests a strong female presence in both undergraduate and graduate programs at The Chicago School, which may influence the academic culture and professional landscape of the institution. This phenomenon aligns with national trends in higher education, where female enrollment continues to rise, prompting discussions about gender dynamics in various fields of study.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at The Chicago School
The age demographics of students at The Chicago School reveal interesting trends regarding the distribution of undergraduate and graduate students across different age categories. The data indicates a significant presence of younger students, particularly those aged 25-29, who comprise the largest group among both genders in the graduate category. This age range represents a critical period for many individuals, often associated with the pursuit of advanced degrees to enhance career prospects.
Moreover, the female graduate student population stands out, especially in the 22-24 and 25-29 age brackets, where their numbers significantly surpass those of their male counterparts. This trend aligns with broader educational patterns observed nationwide, where women have been enrolling in graduate programs at higher rates than men over the last few decades.
Interestingly, as we look at older age demographics, there is a noticeable decline in both male and female students. The participation of individuals aged 30-34 and above shows fewer enrollments, with a sharp drop in numbers as age increases. For instance, there are only two male graduate students aged 50-64, underscoring the challenges that older adults may face when considering further education.
These findings reflect the evolving landscape of higher education, where younger individuals are increasingly prioritizing advanced degrees. As institutions continue to adapt to these trends, it will be crucial to ensure that they also create supportive environments for students of all ages, particularly those who may wish to return to education later in life.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 9.1% in 2020
48 in 2025 · 4.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at The Chicago School
The data on international student enrollment at The Chicago School reveals a nuanced trend over the years, particularly in the graduate program. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international students within the graduate student body has shown a gradual increase. For example, the percentage of international students rose from 4.10% in 2004 to 6.02% in 2020, peaking at 6.02% in that year. This upward trend suggests that The Chicago School is becoming increasingly attractive to international students, possibly due to its diverse academic offerings and reputation in the field of psychology.
Interestingly, the undergraduate program data appears to be incomplete for the years prior to 2020, with only the 2020 figures available, showing a noteworthy 9.09% of international students. This figure indicates a promising start for international enrollment in undergraduate studies, although it would be beneficial to have a more comprehensive dataset for analysis.
Despite fluctuations in the total number of graduate students, the proportion of international students has remained relatively stable in the face of global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted international travel and student mobility. The gradual recovery and increase in international enrollment reflect a resilient interest in higher education in the U.S., especially for specialized fields like psychology.
As global education trends continue to evolve, The Chicago School's ability to maintain and increase its international student population will be vital for fostering a diverse academic environment and enriching the learning experience for all students. The importance of international perspectives in psychological research and practice cannot be overstated, making this trend a positive development for the institution.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$40,316
- Undergraduate tuition
- $21,780
- Room and board
- $18,536
- Graduate tuition
- $35,328
Peer median tuition + room and board $30,010 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose 77% from 2020 to 2025.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$169M
Expenses$150M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
DePaul UniversityChicago · 0.8 mi
U.S. News #169
-
University of Illinois at ChicagoChicago · 1.4 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Illinois Institute of TechnologyChicago · 4.0 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of ChicagoChicago · 7.2 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 7.9 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 11.4 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 24.0 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 26.9 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Aurora UniversityAurora · 38.0 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near The Chicago School at Chicago:
-
University of Chicago - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty. It offers a wide range of programs and is renowned for its contributions to research and innovation.
-
Northwestern University - This university is ranked 9th and is known for its strong interdisciplinary programs and vibrant campus life. Northwestern excels in various fields, including business, journalism, and the arts.
-
University of Illinois Chicago - With a ranking of 82, UIC is a major urban public research university that provides a diverse array of programs and is committed to community engagement and research excellence.
-
Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 98th, IIT specializes in science, engineering, and technology programs. It fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning.
-
Loyola University Chicago - This Jesuit institution is ranked 142nd and offers a comprehensive liberal arts education with a focus on social justice and community service.
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DePaul University - Ranked 151st, DePaul is known for its commitment to providing a practical education in a vibrant urban setting, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Notre Dame - A prestigious Catholic university ranked 20th, Notre Dame is known for its strong academic programs, beautiful campus, and vibrant student life.
These institutions contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding The Chicago School at Chicago, each offering unique programs and opportunities for students.
Peer median 0.0 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at The Chicago School
The crime statistics from The Chicago School reveal a fluctuating trend in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students over the years. In 2013, the crime rate was notably low at 0.70, indicating a relatively safe environment for students. However, the following years showed a dramatic increase, particularly in 2014, where the rate soared to 21.39. This spike may warrant further investigation into the circumstances surrounding that year, such as changes in campus security policies or external factors contributing to this rise.
From 2015 to 2019, the crime rates exhibited a general decline, suggesting that the institution may have taken effective measures to enhance student safety. Nonetheless, the year 2020 saw a modest increase again, with a rate of 11.48. This period, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, might have influenced crime patterns due to restrictions and changes in student behavior.
The increase in 2023 to 20.06 raises concerns once more, hinting at the necessity for renewed vigilance and possibly a review of safety protocols on campus. The variety of reported offenses, including weapons arrests and drug-related incidents, underscores the complexity of maintaining a safe academic environment.
Overall, while there are years exhibiting significant declines, the recent uptick in crime rates highlights the ongoing challenges institutions face in ensuring student safety, necessitating continuous assessment and action. For further details on how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.