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U.S. News #382 Public, 4-year

Chicago State University

Chicago, Illinois · www.csu.edu

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U.S. News National 2027

#382

Acceptance rate

43.3%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$12,757

$24,307 with room and board

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

1,501

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

10.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 28.4%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Chicago State University (CSU) is a public university located in Chicago, Illinois. Established in 1867, CSU has a rich history of providing quality education and fostering diversity. The university is known for its commitment to serving a diverse student population, with a focus on supporting underrepresented groups in higher education. CSU emphasizes the importance of community engagement, which is reflected in its mission to empower students through academic excellence, cultural awareness, and civic responsibility. The university's motto, "The Future is Ours," encapsulates its commitment to preparing students for successful careers and active citizenship.

CSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including Business, Education, Health Sciences, and Arts and Sciences. The faculty at CSU consists of highly qualified professionals dedicated to teaching and mentoring students, ensuring a supportive learning environment. In addition to academic programs, Chicago State University provides a vibrant campus life with various student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs. The CSU Cougars compete in the NCAA Division I, offering students opportunities to engage in sports and promote school spirit. With its strategic location in Chicago, students have access to a bustling urban environment that enhances their educational experience through internships, networking, and cultural opportunities. Overall, Chicago State University is a dynamic institution that prioritizes student success and community involvement.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Chicago State University

Chicago State University has experienced notable fluctuations in several critical metrics over the years, particularly in tuition fees, student enrollment, retention rates, and graduation rates.

First, the tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students rose from $9,032 in 2014 to $12,754 in 2024, marking a significant increase of approximately 41% over a decade. This trend is concerning, especially considering that many families are already burdened by rising education costs. Correspondingly, out-of-state tuition also saw a substantial increase, reaching $12,754 in 2024, which may deter prospective students from attending.

Student enrollment has experienced a dramatic decline, with the number of undergraduate students dropping from 4,340 in 2014 to just 1,450 in 2023. Such a decrease of nearly 67% raises alarms about the university's attractiveness and its ability to retain students. This trend could be linked to the rising tuition costs and a lack of resources or support systems for students, further reflected in the declining retention rate, which fell to 40.6% in 2022 before slightly rebounding to 55.1% in 2023. Retention is critical as it indicates the university's effectiveness in supporting its students throughout their education.

On a more positive note, graduation rates have shown a gradual improvement. The on-time graduation rate increased from 3.0% in 2013 to 8.5% in 2023, suggesting that those who do persist are increasingly likely to complete their degrees. However, the overall rates remain low, indicating that significant challenges still exist in ensuring that students complete their education in a timely manner.

In summary, while there are encouraging signs in graduation rates, the broader outlook for Chicago State University is troubling, with rising tuition costs, declining enrollment numbers, and fluctuating retention rates posing considerable challenges for the institution and its prospective students. The university must address these issues to enhance its educational environment and attract a more stable student body.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Chicago, about 9 mi
Nearest international airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 9 mi
Chicago, Illinois
Also known as
CSU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Zaldwaynaka "Z" Scott (President)
Phone
7739952000
City
Chicago, Illinois
Address
9501 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL 60628-1598

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
31.2%
Women
50.3%

In 2020: men 59.5%, women 65.3%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#382Ranked #382 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Chicago State University

The admissions data from Chicago State University over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader changes in higher education and societal dynamics. The male admission rate started at approximately 60% in 2009 and has seen a steep decline, dropping to around 41.88% by 2023. Conversely, the female admission rate has shown a slightly more stable trend, starting at about 60.93% and fluctuating to around 52.22% in recent years. This disparity in acceptance rates raises questions about the evolving demographics of applicants and the university's responses to them.
Enrollment numbers have generally decreased over the years, with a peak of 651 new students in 2010, followed by a downward trend to just 173 in 2023. This decline in enrollment could be indicative of a range of factors, including the university's ranking, which is often a critical consideration for prospective students. The substantial number of denied applications, peaking at 4,637 in 2016, highlights the competitive nature of admissions, despite the university's overall ranking not reflecting a top-tier institution.
Moreover, the growing number of deferred admissions from 1,052 in 2009 to 3,419 in 2023 suggests a shift in how students approach their college decisions, possibly influenced by the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and its impact on education. Overall, the data reflects complex trends that merit further investigation into the factors influencing both the applicant pool and the university's strategic decisions in admissions.

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

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty2 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 not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of Chicago State University's Admission Data Trends

The admission data for Chicago State University from 2007 to 2023 reveals significant trends in standardized testing participation and performance. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting ACT scores has remained relatively high, peaking at 95% in 2010. This consistent submission suggests a strong reliance on ACT scores in the admission process, which could reflect the institution's commitment to evaluating students through standardized assessments.

Regarding SAT scores, there has been a notable increase in the number of applicants submitting their scores, particularly since 2018, where the participation jumped to 56%. This trend indicates a gradual shift in applicant preferences or possibly an increased emphasis on SAT scores in the admissions criteria. The data shows that the interquartile range for SAT and ACT scores has been relatively stable in recent years, suggesting that the university maintains consistent academic standards for incoming students.

Furthermore, the scores for both SAT and ACT have seen fluctuations, with the mid-range scores for SAT hovering around 420 to 510, indicating a moderate performance level among admitted students. The absence of reported scores for several years highlights potential changes in the admissions strategy or the challenges faced by applicants during those years, possibly influenced by external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overall, the data reflects Chicago State University's evolving landscape in admissions, emphasizing the importance of standardized testing while adapting to applicant dynamics and external challenges. This underscores the need for ongoing evaluation of admissions policies to ensure they align with educational goals and societal changes.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 4 in 10

10,638 applicants in 2025, 43.3% admitted

4,602 admitted 6,036 not admitted Yield 3.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's23910 international (4.2%)
Master's22867 international (29.4%)
Doctoral160 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
37
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
31
Psychology, General
29
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
21
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
19
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
17
Computer Science
13
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
12
Radio and Television
11
Sociology, General
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Computer Science · Master's62 (100% international)
  • Library and Information Science · Master's29 (0% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's18 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's14 (14% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's12 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Chicago State University

The graduation data from Chicago State University reveals several noteworthy trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the Computer Science program stands out with a significant number of master's degree graduates, specifically 39, all of whom are international students. This highlights the increasing global demand for expertise in technology-related fields, which aligns with national trends indicating a growing emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.

In the health-related programs, there is a remarkable presence of doctoral graduates, particularly in Pharmacy with 31 graduates. This is consistent with the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the context of the global pandemic, which has further underscored the importance of robust health systems and qualified practitioners.

Interestingly, the Psychology program shows a strong representation at the bachelor's level with 51 graduates, alongside 27 master's graduates, suggesting a healthy pipeline for future mental health professionals. This is especially relevant as mental health awareness has surged in recent years, prompting a greater need for trained psychologists and counselors.

Moreover, the data reveals that some fields, such as Business Administration, have a limited number of graduates, with only 12 master's graduates and 2 international students. This could indicate either a saturation of business graduates in the job market or a shift in student interest towards more specialized fields like healthcare and technology.

Overall, these insights reflect broader societal trends in education, highlighting the significance of health and technology sectors while also pointing to potential areas for growth in business and liberal arts education at Chicago State University.

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

Educationhas 83 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Bilingual and Multilingual Education.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Computer and information sciencehas 75 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.-
Businesshas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$56,549
Health professionshas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator.-
Pharmacy.$84,045
Public Health, General.-
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$72,607
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$78,845
Psychology has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$43,537
Counseling Psychology.-
Liberal arts has 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$41,615
General Studies.$41,615
Libraryhas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Library and Information Science.-
Homeland security has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$44,754
Biologyhas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
History has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Social sciencehas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Public administrationhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.$63,234
Communication has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Radio and Television.$36,016
Visual and Performing artshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
English has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Geography and Environmental Studies.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

2,238 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 31:69 · Freshman retention 57.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,501)

Black
1,073 · 71.5%
Unknown
187 · 12.5%
Hispanic
136 · 9.1%
International
43 · 2.9%
White
37 · 2.5%
Asian
16 · 1.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Chicago State University in 2023

In 2023, Chicago State University showcases a diverse student body, reflecting broader trends in higher education demographics. The undergraduate new students, comprising 173 individuals, exhibit a notable gender distribution with 39.9% male and 60.1% female. This trend of a higher female enrollment is consistent with national averages, where women have outnumbered men in college enrollments for several years.

The undergraduate continuing students present an even more pronounced gender disparity, with only 31.3% male students compared to 68.7% female students among the 1,018 individuals. Such an imbalance raises questions about retention rates and the experiences of male students in an increasingly female-dominated academic environment.

Undergraduate transfer students mirror this pattern with 31.2% male and 68.8% female representation among 173 students. Graduate students also reflect a similar trend, with 31.7% male and 68.3% female among 867 students.

The data regarding racial composition is crucial for understanding the university's commitment to diversity. However, detailed statistics on the ethnic breakdown of the student body are not fully available. The presence of various ethnic groups, including White, Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, African, and international students, is essential for fostering an inclusive environment and enriching the academic discourse on campus.

Overall, the 2023 student demographic data from Chicago State University underscores significant trends in gender representation and the need for continued focus on diversity and inclusion within academic institutions. As the university navigates these dynamics, it is vital to support all students in their educational journeys, ensuring equitable access and resources for success.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Chicago State University

The student age composition at Chicago State University reveals significant insights into the demographic trends of the university's population. The data shows a strong presence of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age group, which comprises approximately 20.5% of the total male and female students combined. This indicates that the university is attracting a substantial number of fresh high school graduates.

The age group of 22-24 years also shows a notable presence, accounting for about 13.5% of the total student body. This cohort likely includes students transitioning from undergraduate to graduate programs, which is reflected in the number of graduate students in this age range.

Interestingly, as we move into older age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in student numbers. The 25-29 age group has a significant enrollment, with about 13.5% of the total student body. This could suggest that many students are pursuing advanced degrees or returning to education later in life, a trend that has been observed nationally as more adults seek to enhance their skills in a competitive job market.

The presence of students aged 30 and above, while less than younger demographics, contributes to a diverse learning environment. This diversity can enrich classroom discussions and foster a more inclusive campus culture, as students from various life stages bring different perspectives and experiences.

Overall, the age distribution at Chicago State University illustrates a balanced mix of traditional and non-traditional students, reflecting broader trends in higher education where lifelong learning is becoming increasingly valued.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates2.9%

43 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.5%2017: 2.1%2018: 1.8%2019: 3.5%2020: 2.8%2021: 2.9%2022: 4.7%2023: 3.7%2024: 3.8%2025: 2.9%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students14.4%

106 in 2025 · 12.4% in 2016

0% 12.5% 25% 2016: 12.4%2017: 22.1%2018: 17.1%2019: 7.5%2020: 5.3%2021: 4.4%2022: 8.2%2023: 14.2%2024: 15.4%2025: 14.4%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Chicago State University

The data on international students at Chicago State University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. In the early 2000s, the representation of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs was notably low, with percentages below 1% for most years. However, a significant shift occurred around 2015, where there was a remarkable increase in the number of international undergraduates, rising to 3.91% that year, indicating a growing interest in the university among international students.

The graduate programs also saw substantial growth, particularly in 2017, where the percentage of international students jumped to 22.10%. This surge can be attributed to various factors, including the university's efforts to enhance its global outreach and recruitment strategies, as well as broader trends in the U.S. higher education system that have seen increasing numbers of international students seeking advanced degrees.

In recent years, while the overall number of students has decreased, the proportion of international students remains relatively significant, especially in graduate programs, where it reached 14.19% in 2023. This indicates a potential resilience in the university's appeal to international students despite challenges such as the global pandemic, which affected international travel and enrollment.

Overall, the data suggests that Chicago State University is gradually becoming a more attractive option for international students, especially at the graduate level. This trend reflects broader changes in the landscape of U.S. higher education and underscores the importance of international diversity in enriching the academic environment. As universities continue to navigate the post-pandemic era, strategies to support and attract international students will be crucial for fostering a vibrant academic community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$24,307

Undergraduate tuition
$12,757
Room and board
$11,550
Graduate tuition
$16,162
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose -25% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$116M

Government grants and contracts
$69.6M60.0%
Tuition and fees
$12.5M10.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.7M4.1%
Gifts and private grants
$951K0.8%
Investment return
$573K0.5%
Other
$27.6M23.8%

Expenses$108M

Instruction
$53.2M49.3%
Institutional support
$21.4M19.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$15.0M13.9%
Scholarships
$10.6M9.8%
Academic support
$10.0M9.2%
Student services
$6.4M5.9%
Research
$2.4M2.2%
Public service
$1.5M1.4%
Other
-$12.4M-11.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$81,196peers $80,690
Professor
$99,334peers $98,841
Associate professor
$87,244peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$72,869peers $74,446
Lecturer
$58,921peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Division I Independents

Division I Independents: basketball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4860
Soccer3226
Basketball1914
Golf126
Tennis89
Volleyball-10
Other Sports-5
2024
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4248
Soccer3121
Basketball1213
Golf136
Tennis68
Volleyball-11
2023
NCAA Division I without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5964
Soccer3424
Basketball1715
Golf107
Tennis89
Volleyball-13

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Chicago State University:

  1. University of Chicago: Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News, the University of Chicago is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on research.

  2. Northwestern University: With a rank of 9, Northwestern University is renowned for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life, making it a leader in both education and research.

  3. University of Illinois Chicago: This university ranks 82nd and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, focusing on urban health, engineering, and business.

  4. DePaul University: Ranked 151st, DePaul is recognized for its commitment to providing a quality education with a strong focus on experiential learning and community service.

  5. Loyola University Chicago: With a rank of 142, Loyola University Chicago is known for its Jesuit values, strong liberal arts programs, and commitment to social justice.

  6. University of Notre Dame: This highly esteemed institution ranks 20th and is famous for its beautiful campus, strong athletics, and academic rigor.

These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and resources in the vicinity of Chicago State University.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Dating violence
4
Motor vehicle theft
3
Rape
2
Burglary
2
Weapons arrests
2
Liquor referrals
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Chicago State University

The crime data from Chicago State University over the years reveals some notable trends that underscore the fluctuating safety landscape on campus. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate per 1,000 students has experienced significant variations. Notably, 2017 marked a peak with a crime rate of 5.42, reflecting a concerning escalation in incidents that year. However, the trend seems to have improved sharply in subsequent years, culminating in 2021 with no reported crimes, a remarkable achievement that speaks to effective safety measures.

The types of crimes reported include serious offenses such as gun arrests and drug-related incidents, which often contribute to the overall perception of safety within academic institutions. The decline in crime rates, especially from 2018 onwards, may indicate successful implementation of prevention strategies, increased campus security, or improved community relations. It is essential for universities to continuously monitor and address these issues, as even a minor uptick in crime can significantly impact student well-being and enrollment.

In conclusion, while Chicago State University has seen fluctuations in crime rates, the recent downward trend is encouraging. Continued vigilance and proactive measures will be crucial in maintaining this positive trajectory. For further insights into crime rate calculations, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Chicago State University include Bola Tinubu (16th President of Nigeria), Mary Alice (Television, film and stage actress) and Jack Dongarra (Computer scientist; emeritus professor at University of Tennessee).

See all 24 notable alumni of Chicago State University →

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.