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Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"Dedicated to the enlightenment of the human spirit"

1945
Founded
Private university
Type
2,583
Total Students
2,605
Undergrad
1,410
Graduate
$161M
Endowment
(2021)
$20K
Tuition (In-State)
$20K
Tuition (Out-State)
$20K
Avg Net Price
94%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Graduation Rate
6-year
62%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Ali Malekzadeh

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Roosevelt University

Chicago's beacon of social justice, offering diverse education in a towering urban campus.

Roosevelt University stands as a testament to progress and inclusion, founded in 1945 on the radical principle of equal opportunity for all students, regardless of background. Named in honor of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, the university was established by Edward J. Sparling, who championed an admissions policy free of discrimination. This courageous origin story continues to shape Roosevelt's vibrant spirit, making it a truly unique institution dedicated to the enlightenment of the human spirit in the heart of Chicago.

From its humble beginnings without a library or campus, Roosevelt University quickly found its permanent home in Chicago's historic Auditorium Building in 1947. This commitment to breaking barriers extends to its impressive academic environment. The university's main campus in downtown Chicago, featuring the iconic Wabash building—the tallest educational building in Chicago—provides an unparalleled urban learning experience, complemented by a campus in Schaumburg, Illinois.

Academically, Roosevelt University offers a rich portfolio of programs across its diverse colleges. Students can pursue their passions in the renowned Chicago College of Performing Arts, delve into critical thinking in the College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences, explore scientific innovation in the College of Science, Health and Pharmacy, or build business acumen in the Walter E. Heller College of Business. The recent merger with Robert Morris University Illinois further expanded its offerings, creating the Robert Morris Experiential College and enriching the university's commitment to hands-on learning. With 4,015 students, Roosevelt University fosters a supportive and engaging community where diverse perspectives thrive.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1945 on anti-discriminatory principles, championing equality for all students.
  • Named in honor of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.
  • Home to the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business.
  • Features the Wabash building, the tallest educational building in Chicago and second tallest in the U.S.
  • Serves a diverse student body of 4,015 across its Chicago and Schaumburg campuses.
  • Motto: "Dedicated to the enlightenment of the human spirit."
  • Maintains an endowment of $0.2 billion to support its mission.

Timeline

1945
Founded as Thomas Jefferson College, soon renamed Roosevelt College.
1947
Acquired the historic Auditorium Building for one dollar, making it its permanent home.
1959
Rededicated to both Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt.
1996
Opened the Albert A. Robin Campus in Schaumburg, Illinois.
2020
Merged with Robert Morris University Illinois, expanding academic offerings.
🏛️
81 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Roosevelt University

🎭

Chicago College of Performing Arts

A renowned college for music, theater, and dance education.

📚

College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences

Offers diverse programs in fields like education, psychology, and literature.

🔬

College of Science, Health and Pharmacy

Focuses on scientific inquiry, health professions, and pharmaceutical studies.

💼

Walter E. Heller College of Business

Provides comprehensive business education in a dynamic urban environment.

🏫

Robert Morris Experiential College

Formed after the merger with Robert Morris University Illinois, emphasizing hands-on learning and practical skills.

Leadership

Ali Malekzadeh
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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