Roosevelt University: one of the top affordable private colleges in Chicago

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One Chicago University. Two Vibrant Campuses.

Whether in the heart of downtown Chicago’s dynamic commercial and cultural district, or nestled within the city’s northwest suburban economic center, Roosevelt University’s Chicago and Schaumburg campuses are actively connected to their communities.

Chicago cityscape at sunset from Buckingham fountain

Come Visit Campus

Come visit us at Roosevelt University’s downtown Chicago campus—where your classroom is in the middle of the city. Explore our 32-story Wabash Building, meet real students on a guided tour, and take in some seriously epic skyline views. While you're here, chat with an admissions counselor, learn about our programs, and see how we keep social justice at the core of what we do. Plus, you're steps away from food, art, music, and everything else that makes Chicago iconic.

Schedule your visit
Instructor standing in front of chalkboard and a teaching assistant sitting facing the class with a laptop.

Attend A Graduate Info Session

With more than 40 master's degree programs, Roosevelt has the program to take you where you want to go in your career. Join an upcoming information session to connect with our admission staff and learn more.

Sign-up for a Graduate Info Session
Welcome back students for Fall 2018 Semester!

Transfer to Roosevelt

Learn how easy it is to transfer to Roosevelt. See how your credits transfer, explore majors and apply today!

Learn more about the transfer process

Four Years Tuition-Free

At Roosevelt, we offer a transformational private education in a world-class city while prioritizing affordability. With low tuition and a commitment to opportunity and access to education, we stand out in the Midwest. Through the Roosevelt Pledge, Illinois residents with a family income under $50,000 can attend tuition-free for four years. This is our pledge to you. 

To be considered for the Roosevelt Pledge students must submit the FAFSA by March 15.

Learn about the pledge

Experience Life at One of the Best Chicago Colleges

Guy speaking through a megaphone in the middle of rally

Get Involved

So, you want to be a participant, not just a spectator? We’ve got you covered. Get involved, serve others and meet people who share your passions.

Browse our student orgs
Lakers Cheer at the Goodman Center

Home to Chicago's ONLY NCAA Division II program!

With 35 men’s and women’s athletic teams, programs and clubs to cheer for, you’ll be a Laker in no time.

Go Green and White
A Roosevelt student sits on a bed in a Wabash Building dorm room

Rooms with a View

Live, learn and vibe in the Wabash Building. Wake up to insane city views, hit up class, grab food, work out, and chill with friends—all in one place. Plus, downtown Chicago is literally right outside. This isn’t just a dorm. It’s your new home.

Living on Campus

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS & MAJORS

Roosevelt can help you find your passion. Seeking an undergraduate degree? Your doctorate? Something in between? Explore our comprehensive academic choices, outstanding faculty and nearly limitless degree program options.

explore programs

Here you can be you. And Belong.

In the classroom, it’s diverse, tolerant, and academically rigorous. Outside the classroom, there’s so much to do. Whether you’re into sports, the arts, or student organizations, you can be a spectator, participant, or both. Or explore one of the best cities in the world.

Check out the campus communities that make the big city small.

Learn more About our History, Mission & Vision
The Support You Need to Succeed.

When universities take your tuition, they should take responsibility for helping you succeed. We do.

We’ll help you choose the right classes. Navigate financial aid and housing questions. Connect you to tutoring and mentors so you can grow academically. With confidence.

See how we support student safety, growth and success.

learn more about our support services

Meet our Lakers

Sebastian Rodriguez

The Athlete

Sebastian Rodriguez, BA '25

Exercise, Nutrition & Health Science Student
Gurnee, IL
Samantha Martinez

The Activist

Samantha Martinez, BA '18

Co-Founder of the Gage Park Latinx Council
Chicago, IL
Franziska Miles

The Business Leader

Franziska Miles, BBA '22

MBA Candidate
Chicago, IL
Roosevelt in the News
Portrait photo of Rashad Reed
Roosevelt Health Science Administration Alumni Brings Passion for Community Engagement

“I want my professional career to uplift those underserved communities in Chicago first and foremost," he says. "And Roosevelt was the obvious choice for my goals.”

Video still image of Student Organization spotlight of ISA (Indian Student Association)
Food and Friendship: How the Indian Student Association Builds Community

The group welcomes Roosevelt's thriving international student population to develop new connections and make Chicago their home.

Political Science professor David Faris on stage sitting on stage engaged in a discussion with vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, Malcom Kenyetta
Roosevelt’s American Dream Reconsidered Conference Facilitates Vibrant Campus Discussion

Titled “Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s American Dream,” this year’s conference celebrated the University’s 80th anniversary by focusing on the institution’s namesakes.

College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences Alumna Rubbie Thigpen Publishes Collection of Poetry Titled "22 Grand"

"Rubbie Thigpen’s new book invites readers to reflect on the unbreakable bonds of family and the spiritual legacy that connects generations."

Thigpen received her master's degree in Educational Supervision and Administration.


 

Heller College of Business Alumnus Scott Gray Shares Predictions for 2026 IT Landscape in Article for VMBlog

"As we look toward 2026, the IT landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. The forces of digital transformation, persistent security threats, and economic pressures are compelling organizations to build more resilient, efficient, and intelligent infrastructure. For IT leaders, navigating these changes requires a clear vision and a practical strategy."

Gray received his MS in International Business from Roosevelt University.

Psychology Doctoral Candidate Joabe Barbosa Sets Out to Break CTA L Stop Visit Guinness World Record

"That record entailed visiting all 146 CTA train stations in less than 9 hours and 15 minutes, from the North Shore to Midway to the Loop to O’Hare and all points in between, via trains, buses and running more than 4 miles between stops. The record would require the trio to get off the train and take a selfie at every “L” stop."

"We think Chicago is one of the best places in the whole world, and we want more people to come here and understand how easy it is to get around,” he said. “It’s about showing people that you can go to Little India on the North Side, Little Village on the Southwest Side and anywhere in between on the CTA."

Barbosa is a Psychology doctoral candidate and one of the 2025 Commencement speakers.