Adler University

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Located in a major metropolitan area with excellent opportunities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Graduate school at Adler University differs from the typical undergraduate experience, with most students juggling coursework alongside jobs, families, and other responsibilities. The university recognizes these realities and structures its programs accordingly, offering evening and weekend classes that accommodate working professionals. Many students form study groups that meet between classes, building friendships that often continue well beyond graduation. The Chicago campus occupies a modern facility in the Loop, surrounded by the energy and opportunities of downtown Chicago. Between classes, students grab lunch at nearby eateries, study in campus common areas, or explore the cultural attractions steps away. The location provides easy access to clinical placement sites throughout the metropolitan area, from community mental health centers to hospitals and schools. Student organizations focus primarily on professional development and social justice initiatives, reflecting Adler's mission. Groups organize workshops, community service projects, and networking events that connect current students with practicing professionals. The annual Social Justice Summit brings together students, faculty, and community leaders to address pressing issues affecting mental health and community wellbeing. While the graduate school experience differs from residential undergraduate life, Adler students form close bonds through shared clinical experiences and collaborative projects.

Location & Surroundings

Chicago provides an ideal setting for Adler University's mission of training socially responsible mental health professionals. The city's neighborhoods represent the full spectrum of American urban life, from wealthy lakefront areas to communities struggling with poverty, violence, and limited resources. Students gain exposure to this diversity through their clinical placements, learning to work effectively with clients from all backgrounds. The downtown campus sits in the Loop, Chicago's central business district, easily accessible by the CTA train and bus lines that crisscross the city. Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and countless restaurants lie within walking distance. After evening classes, students can catch a late dinner or unwind at one of the many venues nearby. For those driving, the campus offers parking options, though most students find public transit more convenient. Beyond downtown, Chicago offers neighborhoods with distinct personalities, from the arts scene in Pilsen to the historic architecture of Hyde Park. Students often live in various parts of the city, commuting to campus for classes and traveling to placements scattered throughout the metropolitan area. The Vancouver campus provides similar urban advantages for students in the Pacific Northwest, with access to Canada's thriving mental health sector and the natural beauty of British Columbia.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Graduate education at Adler University represents a significant investment, with tuition costs varying by program and campus location. The university provides financial aid information sessions and individual counseling to help prospective students understand their options. Federal student loans are available for eligible students, and some employers offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing graduate degrees in relevant fields. Adler offers limited institutional scholarships, including awards recognizing academic achievement and commitment to social justice. Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal aid and research external scholarships available for psychology and counseling students. Many students work part-time during their studies, with some positions on campus or at clinical sites providing both income and relevant experience. Career outcomes for Adler graduates reflect the practical nature of the programs. Psy.D. graduates pursue licensure as clinical psychologists, working in hospitals, private practice, community mental health centers, and academic settings. Master's degree holders become licensed counselors, therapists, and specialists in their chosen areas. The university's alumni network provides mentorship and job leads, while the career services office assists with resume preparation, job searches, and professional development. Adler's emphasis on practical training means graduates typically enter the workforce ready to practice, having accumulated significant supervised clinical hours during their programs.

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