University of Chicago
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 11(↑1) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Quarter
Religious Affiliation: Not applicable
School Chief: Paul Alivisatos (President)
Website: www.uchicago.edu/; Phone: 7737021234
Location: 5801 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637
University of Chicago Important Facts
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at the University of Chicago
Over the past decade, the University of Chicago has seen a significant increase in tuition fees. For both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, tuition has risen from approximately $46,386 in 2014 to $65,619 in 2024, which represents an increase of about 41%. This relentless rise in costs has raised concerns among prospective students and families regarding the financial burden of higher education. The expansion of tuition correlates with not only the demand for higher education but also the escalating operational costs that institutions face.
Graduation rates highlight another critical aspect of students' academic journeys at the University of Chicago. The on-time graduation rate has consistently hovered around 86-90%, reaching nearly 91% in recent years. This significant figure indicates that students are not only attending but are also succeeding in completing their degrees within the expected time frame. High graduation rates are commonly associated with strong academic support, engaged faculty, and a rigorous curriculum, alleviating some worries about educational investment.
The student retention rate also remains impressively high, fluctuating between 98% to 99% over the past decade. A high retention rate suggests that students are satisfied with their educational experience and are more likely to continue their studies at the institution. This satisfaction can be attributed to various factors, including academic resources, extracurricular opportunities, campus culture, and support systems.
As tuition continues to climb, it is essential for universities like the University of Chicago to ensure affordable access to education while maintaining high graduation and retention rates. Balancing these metrics will not only help sustain the university's reputation for excellence, but also ensure that it remains an attractive choice for future students amidst a landscape of rising educational costs.
University of Chicago Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduate Program Trends at the University of Chicago
The data regarding the graduation statistics from the University of Chicago highlights several noteworthy trends in academic disciplines. Notably, the social sciences and particularly sociology appear to dominate the master's degree category, with 477 graduates, of whom 228 are international students. This indicates strong global interest and engagement with social research methodologies, allowing for diverse perspectives in addressing pressing societal issues.
In contrast, fields such as biology and the humanities show significantly different dynamics. For instance, the biology program reported 121 bachelor's degree graduates; however, it has no master's or doctorate graduates. This discrepancy might reflect a specialized job market for undergraduates in biological sciences or a higher transition rate into industry rather than continuing advanced studies.
Interestingly, legal studies present a unique case with 213 doctorate graduates, yet no bachelor’s or master’s degrees were conferred. This could indicate a structure where candidates often pursue direct doctoral paths, a scenario that might align with broader trends in the legal field towards professionalism and specialization at higher educational levels.
Moreover, despite the absence of graduates in fields like public administration and foreign languages, there exists potential for strategic expansion in these areas to meet evolving societal and professional needs. This absence could serve as a call for the institution to assess and potentially broaden its offerings, thereby responding proactively to the demands of both local and international students seeking advanced education in these disciplines.
Overall, the data suggests a vibrant academic environment at the University of Chicago, but also emphasizes a need for continual assessment and adaptation to meet emerging educational trends and challenges.
University of Chicago Ranking and Admission
Commentary on University of Chicago Admissions Trends
The admissions data from the University of Chicago demonstrates a fascinating trajectory over the years, particularly notable for its shift in both rankings and acceptance rates. As of 2025, the university is ranked 11th, which marks a decline from the 6th position it held from 2020 to 2023. This downward trend in ranking may reflect a highly competitive academic landscape, as institutions vie for top spots in national rankings. Simultaneously, acceptance rates have experienced a dramatic decrease, showcasing the university's growing selectivity. For instance, the overall acceptance rate has dropped substantially from approximately 28.1% in 2010 to about 5.7% in 2024. The trend suggests that the University of Chicago is attracting an increasing number of applicants, creating a more competitive environment. The substantial number of denial cases, peaking at over 36,782 in 2024, reflects the high-stakes nature of admissions at elite institutions. Moreover, it is interesting to observe the gender disparity in acceptance rates, with male applicants typically receiving a slightly higher acceptance rate compared to female applicants. The enrollment numbers have, however, steadily grown, indicating that despite the increasing competition, the university is committed to accommodating a larger student body. In summary, the University of Chicago illustrates the evolving dynamics of higher education admissions, where elite rankings can influence applicant behavior and institutional policies. The adjustment in strategy, as evidenced by the acceptance rates and rankings, is reflective of broader trends in higher education, affirming the value and prestige associated with a University of Chicago degree.
University of Chicago Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Analysis of Admissions Data at the University of Chicago
The admissions data from the University of Chicago over the years provides a fascinating look at trends in standardized testing performance and application patterns. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has experienced a significant decline, dropping from 87% in 2007 to just 46% in 2024. This trend may reflect broader shifts in college admissions policies, where many institutions are moving toward test-optional formats.
When we examine the scores themselves, there is a notable consistency in the performance of admitted students, even amidst these changing submission rates. The SAT reading and math scores have generally maintained a range between 690 and 800 for the 25th to 75th percentiles, indicating that the university continues to attract high-achieving candidates. Particularly in recent years, the scores from 2020 through 2023 reveal a competitive range that suggests a continued emphasis on academic excellence.
Furthermore, as the submission rate decreases, it raises questions about how the university evaluates candidates beyond standardized test scores. With the increasing focus on holistic admissions processes, it will be interesting to see how factors like extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations are prioritized in the future.
Overall, these trends illustrate how the University of Chicago is adapting to the evolving landscape of college admissions, while still maintaining high standards for academic achievement among its accepted students. As test-optional policies become more prevalent, the university may set a precedent for others in the field concerning advanced evaluation methods that highlight diverse student strengths.
University of Chicago Students Diversity
Diversity and Gender Balance at the University of Chicago in 2024
The student demographic data from the University of Chicago for 2024 reveals a vibrant and diverse student body. A total of 16,541 students are enrolled, comprising a substantial number of undergraduate newbies, returning undergraduate students, transfer students, and graduate students. This diversity is echoed not only in the overall population but also in its gender distribution.
The undergraduate newcomers total 1,625, with a male representation of approximately 54.4% and females at 45.6%. These figures are complemented by the undergraduate returning students, where males account for 53.1% of the 5,791 total and females for 46.9%. Transfer students show a slightly higher male ratio at 55.6%. Meanwhile, the graduate student body is notably large, consisting of 10,696 individuals with a gender split of 54.7% male and 45.3% female.
The data also indicates the existence of significant racial and ethnic diversity, although specifics are not detailed in the available statistics. The emphasis on inclusivity resonates with current trends in higher education, where institutions strive to create environments welcoming to all backgrounds.
The balanced gender representation is a positive marker, reflecting ongoing efforts to promote equality in academic spaces. However, the university will need to continually assess and address the unique needs of all student groups, especially underrepresented minorities and international students. Overall, the University of Chicago demonstrates a commitment to a diverse student population, essential for fostering a rich academic and social environment.
University of Chicago Students Age Distribution
Insights on Age Composition at the University of Chicago
The age composition of students at the University of Chicago for the year 2024 reveals intriguing demographics that reflect broader trends in higher education. Most notably, the undergraduate population aged 18-21 constitutes a significant portion of the student body, with over 75% of all undergraduates falling within this age range. This aligns with national trends, where younger students are increasingly opting for traditional 18-22 college experiences, likely influenced by social and economic factors pushing younger high school graduates directly into higher education.
Moreover, the data highlights a substantial presence of graduate students aged 25-29, who make up nearly 50% of the total graduate population. This demographic trend could signify the growing attractiveness of advanced degrees, as more individuals seek to enhance their qualifications in a competitive job market. The substantial enrollment in graduate programs reflects increasing educational pursuits among professionals, as they respond to the evolving demands of various industries.
Interestingly, the number of older students, specifically those aged 30 and above, remains relatively low compared to younger cohorts. This may suggest a reluctance among older individuals to return for another degree or the challenges they face in balancing work, family, and education. However, as lifelong learning becomes more prominent, institutions like the University of Chicago may need to explore more flexible options to accommodate returning students of varied ages.
Overall, these insights capture the University of Chicago's youthful spirit while showcasing the institution's significance in serving a diverse and evolving student population. The patterns observed in age distribution are emblematic of broader societal shifts, making them worthy of further analysis and consideration.
University of Chicago International Students Trends
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Chicago
The data from the University of Chicago reveals significant trends in international student enrollment over the last two decades. In the undergraduate program, the proportion of international students has shown a steady increase, rising from 8.07% in 2005 to 16.75% in 2024. This growth is indicative of the university's enhanced global appeal and the increasing opportunities for cultural exchange that international students bring to campus.
In contrast, the graduate program has experienced an even more striking trend, with the percentage of international students soaring from 23.89% in 2005 to an impressive 40.66% by 2024. This dramatic increase underscores the university's reputation as a leading institution for graduate studies, drawing a larger number of students from various countries who seek quality education and research opportunities.
These rising percentages also align with broader trends in higher education, where universities worldwide are intensifying their efforts to attract international talent amidst a growing competition for academic excellence. Furthermore, the ongoing impact of geopolitical factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting immigration policies, continues to shape international student dynamics.
As universities adapt to these shifts, strategies promoting diversity and inclusion become essential, enhancing the academic environment. Ultimately, these trends reflect the University of Chicago's commitment to fostering a diverse and globally-minded academic community, preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world.
University of Chicago Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Chicago:
Northwestern University - Ranked 6th in the 2025 US News rankings, Northwestern is a prestigious comprehensive university known for its strong emphasis on research and a wide variety of programs across various disciplines.
University of Notre Dame - This renowned university ranks 18th in the nation. It is a private Catholic research university recognized for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
Purdue University-Main Campus - Ranking 46th, Purdue is known for its engineering and technology programs, offering a plethora of comprehensive academic opportunities.
Illinois Institute of Technology - Ranked 105th, this institute specializes in engineering, technology, and architecture, preparing students for careers in various high-demand industries.
Loyola University Chicago - With a ranking of 132, Loyola is known for its commitment to social justice and a liberal arts education.
University of Illinois Chicago - Ranking 80th, this public university offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its research initiatives and community involvement.
These institutions contribute to a vibrant educational landscape in the Chicago area, each offering unique programs and opportunities for students.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of Chicago
The crime statistics at the University of Chicago from 2013 to 2023 indicate a fluctuating trend in criminal activity on campus. The average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked at 8.16 in 2019, while the lowest point was in 2021, with just 3.50 incidents per 1,000 students. This significant decline in 2021 could be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus policies or a shift in student presence due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Particularly concerning is the trend of gun-related arrests, which remains a critical issue on campuses across the United States. In 2023, there were eight reported incidents of gun-related arrests, showcasing a potentially alarming revival of such criminal activities. This increase speaks volumes about the ongoing challenges universities face in maintaining safety on campuses, especially in a larger societal context marked by rising gun violence.
Additionally, drug-related and alcohol-related arrests continue to pose substantial concerns, reflecting broader social issues both on and off campus. The rise in total crime in recent years indicates that community engagement, education, and intervention programs might be necessary to curb these rates effectively.
Overall, while certain years show improvement in crime metrics, the increasing complexities of societal issues suggest that continual vigilance and proactive measures will be essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of students at the University of Chicago.
For further details on calculating crime rates, please visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Reference
- University of Chicago Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
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University of Chicago Important Facts Trends
University of Chicago degrees/majors
University of Chicago major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 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 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Social Sciences, General. | $53,788 | |||
Research Methodology and Quantitative Methods. | $53,788 | |||
Anthropology, General. | - | |||
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $92,075 | |||
Geography. | - | |||
International Relations and Affairs. | $66,182 | |||
Political Science and Government, General. | $56,022 | |||
Sociology, General. | - | |||
Social Sciences, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $194,606 | |||
Management Science. | $190,915 | |||
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | $190,915 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | - | |||
Computer Programming, Other. | $105,265 | |||
Information Science/Studies. | - | |||
Computer Science. | $117,578-$135,918 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | $100,421 | |||
Computational and Applied Mathematics. | - | |||
Financial Mathematics. | - | |||
Statistics, General. | $82,681-$115,925 | |||
Mathematical Statistics and Probability. | $82,681-$115,925 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,275 | |||
Biomedical Sciences, General. | $35,275 | |||
Biophysics. | - | |||
Molecular Biochemistry. | - | |||
Anatomy. | - | |||
Developmental Biology and Embryology. | - | |||
Microbiology, General. | - | |||
Immunology. | - | |||
Genetics, General. | - | |||
Molecular Genetics. | - | |||
Human/Medical Genetics. | - | |||
Oncology and Cancer Biology. | - | |||
Bioinformatics. | $99,193 | |||
Ecology. | - | |||
Evolutionary Biology. | - | |||
Neuroscience. | $37,246 | |||
Neurobiology and Anatomy. | $37,246 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Physical Sciences, General. | - | |||
Astronomy. | - | |||
Chemistry, General. | - | |||
Chemistry, Other. | - | |||
Geophysics and Seismology. | - | |||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Law. | $199,603 | |||
Advanced Legal Research/Studies, General. | - | |||
Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Systems Science and Theory. | - | |||
Medieval and Renaissance Studies. | - | |||
Science, Technology and Society. | - | |||
Behavioral Sciences. | - | |||
Nutrition Sciences. | - | |||
Cognitive Science, General. | - | |||
Data Analytics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Public Policy Analysis, General. | $60,057-$79,721 | |||
International Policy Analysis. | $60,057-$79,721 | |||
Social Work. | $52,551 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Experimental Psychology. | $31,986 | |||
Counseling Psychology. | $39,808 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $26,094 | |||
General Studies. | $26,094 | |||
Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $26,094 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | $46,616 | |||
History and Philosophy of Science and Technology. | $46,616 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Medicine. | $70,564 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. | - | |||
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature, General. | $44,397 | |||
Creative Writing. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | |||
Directing and Theatrical Production. | - | |||
Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |||
Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | |||
Music, General. | - | |||
Visual and Performing Arts, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Theology/Theological Studies. | $34,557-$57,413 | |||
Divinity/Ministry. | $34,557-$57,413 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Philosophy. | - | |||
Jewish/Judaic Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Environmental Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
African Studies. | $38,008 | |||
Latin American Studies. | $38,008 | |||
Near and Middle Eastern Studies. | $38,008 | |||
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Elementary Education and Teaching. | $65,351 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Securities Services Administration/Management. | $100,258 |
University of Chicago Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
World University Ranking
Grad Ranking (2025)
- Law School# 3(→)-
- Constitutional Law# 2(↑1)
- Contracts Law# 2(↓1)
- Business/Corporate Law# 4(↓3)
- International Law# 9(→)
- Tax Law# 10(↓3)
- Criminal Law# 12(↓5)
- Intellectual Property Law# 36(→)
- Clinical Training# 46(↓12)
- Environmental Law# 53(↑18)
- Health Care Law# 60(↑7)
- Trial Advocacy# 90(↑36)
- Legal Writing# 124(↓6)
- Dispute Resolution# -(↓70)
- Business School# 3(↓2)+
- Public Affairs# 9(↓1)+
- Medical School (Research)# 18(↑2)
- Medical School (Primary Care)# 61(↓31)
- Fine Arts# 42(↓9)
- Health Specialty+
- Science+
- Engineering School+
- Social Sciences and Humanities+
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
University of Chicago Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 161 | 161 |
Football | 89 | - |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 39 | 32 |
Soccer | 30 | 32 |
Baseball | 45 | - |
Tennis | 19 | 16 |
Basketball | 18 | 14 |
Wrestling | 32 | - |
Lacrosse | - | 25 |
Softball | - | 17 |
Volleyball | - | 17 |
NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 129 | 120 |
Football | 95 | - |
Swimming and Diving (combined) | 39 | 36 |
Soccer | 27 | 27 |
Baseball | 36 | - |
Tennis | 15 | 16 |
Wrestling | 31 | - |
Basketball | 13 | 16 |
Lacrosse | - | 29 |
Softball | - | 19 |
Volleyball | - | 18 |
NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field, Outdoor | 45 | 46 |
Baseball | 39 | - |
Tennis | 16 | 16 |
Lacrosse | - | 29 |
Softball | - | 21 |
The University of Chicago, established in 1890, is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to interdisciplinary education. Situated in the vibrant and diverse neighborhoods of Hyde Park, Chicago, the university boasts a picturesque campus that combines historic architecture with modern facilities. One of the school's most notable features is its emphasis on critical thinking and intellectual curiosity, encapsulated in its famous motto, “Let knowledge grow from more to more; but more of reverence in us dwell.” This aspiration is reflected in its challenging curriculum across various disciplines, including economics, political science, and humanities, where students are encouraged to engage in analytical discussions and original research.
The University of Chicago is also known for its distinguished faculty, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields and have received prestigious awards, including Nobel Prizes. The institution fosters a rich cultural environment, offering students numerous extracurricular activities, including arts, music, and athletics. The campus hosts a plethora of events and lectures featuring influential thinkers and leaders, further enriching the student experience. Moreover, UChicago's commitment to preparing graduates for successful careers is evident in its strong alumni network and high employment rates across diverse industries. Notable alumni include former President Barack Obama and economist Milton Friedman, exemplifying the university's tradition of nurturing leaders who make impactful contributions to society.