DePaul University

About DePaul University

DePaul University stands as the largest Catholic university in the United States and one of Chicago's most dynamic institutions of higher education, serving approximately 14,283 students across two vibrant urban campuses in the heart of this world-class metropolitan area. Founded in 1898 by the Vincentian Fathers, DePaul draws its name from Saint Vincent de Paul and embodies his mission of service to marginalized communities through education, civic engagement, and social justice advocacy. As a private nonprofit institution with an acceptance rate of approximately 74%, DePaul welcomes a remarkably diverse student body representing over 100 countries and every state in the nation, creating a multicultural learning environment that reflects Chicago's cosmopolitan character. The university's Lincoln Park campus, situated in one of Chicago's most desirable neighborhoods, provides a traditional collegiate setting with historic buildings, tree-lined walkways, and intimate academic spaces, while the Loop campus in downtown Chicago places students at the epicenter of business, culture, and professional opportunity. DePaul's Vincentian values of respect, personalism, and commitment to the common good permeate every aspect of university life, inspiring students to pursue careers that combine professional excellence with ethical responsibility. The university has earned national recognition for its academic programs, particularly in business, communications, computing, and the performing arts.

DePaul University welcomes applications from students who demonstrate academic preparation, personal motivation, and genuine interest in the university's distinctive mission and urban character. With an acceptance rate of approximately 74%, DePaul maintains accessibility while still seeking students who will contribute meaningfully to the campus community and take full advantage of the opportunities available. The admissions process considers multiple factors including high school academic performance, with particular attention to course rigor and grade trends over time. Standardized test scores may be submitted but are not required, reflecting DePaul's recognition that students demonstrate readiness for college success in various ways. Application essays provide crucial opportunities for prospective students to share their stories, perspectives, and aspirations in their own voices, helping admissions counselors understand the individual behind the application. Letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or other mentors offer valuable external perspective on applicants' academic abilities and personal qualities. DePaul considers demonstrated interest through campus visits, virtual events, and communication with admissions representatives, recognizing that engaged applicants often become successful students. The university offers Early Action for students who want earlier notification without binding commitment, as well as Regular Decision for those who need additional time to complete their applications. Transfer students find DePaul particularly welcoming, with articulation agreements with community colleges facilitating smooth transitions. International students benefit from dedicated support services that assist with visa processes, English language development, and cultural adjustment.

DePaul University offers an extraordinary breadth of academic programs through ten colleges and schools, providing over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for success in virtually every professional field imaginable. The Driehaus College of Business enjoys AACSB accreditation and national recognition for programs in finance, accounting, marketing, and entrepreneurship, benefiting from Chicago's position as a global financial center. The College of Communication produces award-winning journalists, filmmakers, and public relations professionals who leverage the city's robust media industry for internships and career opportunities. The School of Computing and Digital Media prepares students for technology careers through programs in computer science, game development, animation, and user experience design. DePaul's College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences maintains the university's commitment to humanistic inquiry, offering rigorous programs in psychology, political science, history, and international studies. The renowned Theatre School, among the oldest in the nation, has produced Academy Award winners, Tony Award recipients, and countless successful performers. Class sizes remain remarkably manageable despite the university's size, with the average class enrolling fewer than 25 students and many upper-level seminars limited to 15. Faculty members combine scholarly expertise with professional experience, many maintaining active careers in Chicago's business, legal, medical, and artistic communities while teaching and mentoring students. The university's quarter system allows students to explore diverse subjects while progressing efficiently toward degree completion.

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

Student life at DePaul University offers the best of both worlds: the resources and opportunities of a major research university combined with the personal attention and community spirit of a smaller institution. The Lincoln Park campus buzzes with activity from early morning through late evening, with students gathering in the Ray Meyer Fitness Center, studying in the Richardson Library's welcoming spaces, or grabbing coffee at one of numerous campus cafes. Over 350 student organizations cater to every conceivable interest, from cultural associations celebrating the university's incredible diversity to professional clubs that connect students with career networks. The Blue Demons compete in NCAA Division I athletics, with basketball games at Wintrust Arena generating tremendous school spirit and the women's basketball program having achieved particular success in recent years. Greek life, while present, represents just one of many pathways to social connection on this urban campus. The university's location enables students to experience Chicago's unparalleled cultural scene, from world-renowned museums and theaters to diverse neighborhoods offering authentic cuisines from around the globe. DePaul's commitment to community service manifests through the Steans Center for Community-based Service Learning, which connects students with nonprofit organizations throughout Chicago. Religious life remains vibrant for interested students through campus ministry programs, though participation is entirely optional and students of all faiths and none find welcoming community. The annual FEST celebration, DePaul activities fair, and numerous cultural events create ongoing opportunities for connection and celebration.

Location & Surroundings

DePaul University's Chicago location represents one of its most compelling advantages, providing students with unparalleled access to professional opportunities, cultural experiences, and urban adventure in America's third-largest city. The Lincoln Park campus occupies a stunning neighborhood adjacent to the famous Lincoln Park itself, offering students easy access to the zoo, conservatory, beach, and miles of lakefront trails along Lake Michigan's spectacular shore. This residential neighborhood features tree-lined streets, beautiful Victorian architecture, and a thriving commercial district with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues catering to student tastes and budgets. The Loop campus positions students in downtown Chicago, surrounded by corporate headquarters, law firms, financial institutions, and government offices that provide internship and employment opportunities unavailable in smaller metropolitan areas. Chicago's world-class public transportation system connects both campuses and provides access to every corner of this diverse metropolitan region, eliminating any need for private vehicles. Students can attend performances at the Lyric Opera, explore the Art Institute of Chicago, catch major league baseball, basketball, football, or hockey games, and experience neighborhoods from Pilsen to Wrigleyville, each offering distinct character and cultural traditions. The city's diverse population, representing virtually every ethnic and cultural group on earth, provides education beyond the classroom through daily encounters with different perspectives and traditions. Summer in Chicago offers festivals nearly every weekend, while winter brings holiday traditions, ice skating, and the resilient spirit that defines this remarkable city.

Costs & Career Outcomes

DePaul University strives to make private higher education accessible through comprehensive financial aid programs that help students from all economic backgrounds afford the transformative experience of urban education. Approximately 90% of undergraduate students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships recognizing academic achievement, need-based grants, work-study employment, and federal loan programs. The university's commitment to access reflects its Vincentian mission of serving students who might otherwise lack educational opportunities. Total annual costs compare favorably with peer private institutions, and the return on investment is enhanced by Chicago's robust internship and employment markets. The Career Center provides comprehensive services including career counseling, resume development, interview preparation, and connections to employer networks across Chicago's diverse economy. Students regularly secure internships at Fortune 500 companies, major law firms, healthcare systems, media organizations, and nonprofit agencies, building professional experience and networks before graduation. DePaul's alumni network exceeds 185,000 graduates worldwide, with particularly strong representation in Chicago's business, legal, and nonprofit communities. Graduates report strong employment outcomes, with most finding career-relevant positions within six months of graduation. The combination of academic preparation, professional experience through internships, and alumni connections creates powerful pathways to career success. Graduate school placement is equally strong, with DePaul alumni attending top law schools, medical schools, MBA programs, and doctoral programs nationwide. The university's urban location and professional networks continue benefiting graduates throughout their careers as they advance in their chosen fields.