Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Suburban campus with easy access to city resources
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at RFUMS reflects its character as a professional school. The student body consists primarily of graduate and professional students, all focused on demanding programs that leave limited time for traditional college activities. Nobody's here for the parties. That said, the university supports various student organizations that help build community and provide outlets beyond academics. Professional associations connect students with their future fields, while wellness activities combat the stress that inevitably accompanies medical and health sciences education. The campus includes housing options for students who prefer to live nearby, though many choose apartments in North Chicago or surrounding communities. The area offers affordable options compared to Chicago proper, which helps given the loans many students accumulate during their training. Fitness facilities help students maintain physical health during demanding academic programs. Recognizing that healthcare providers should model healthy behaviors, the university emphasizes wellness as part of the educational environment. Chicago itself provides cultural and entertainment options when time permits. Weekend trips into the city offer access to world-class museums, restaurants, music venues, and sporting events. The Metra commuter rail makes the journey straightforward, though students often find their schedules leave less free time than they'd like.

Location & Surroundings

North Chicago sits along Lake Michigan's western shore, about 40 miles north of downtown Chicago. The city itself is modest, with a population around 30,000 and limited commercial development. Students find this keeps distractions minimal but also means looking elsewhere for entertainment and dining variety. The immediate surroundings include Naval Station Great Lakes, the Navy's largest training installation, which gives the area a military presence that shapes local character. Lake County stretches northward toward the Wisconsin border, with suburban communities offering additional shopping and dining options. Chicago provides the metropolitan amenities that North Chicago lacks. The commute by car or train takes about an hour, which means weekend visits are reasonable but weeknight adventures less practical. Still, students appreciate knowing that world-class culture, cuisine, and entertainment sit within reach when they can escape their studies. Lake Michigan moderates temperatures somewhat, keeping summers slightly cooler and winters slightly warmer than inland locations. Still, this is the upper Midwest, and winters bring cold, snow, and gray skies that can challenge students from warmer regions. Spring and fall offer comfortable weather for exploring the lakeshore and nearby forest preserves. Cost of living runs lower than Chicago proper, which helps stretch student budgets and loan dollars. Rent, in particular, costs significantly less than comparable housing in the city. Groceries and everyday expenses align roughly with national averages.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Professional health sciences education at RFUMS requires significant financial investment. Tuition varies by program, with medical school representing the highest cost and some health professions programs requiring less. All students should expect to borrow substantially unless family resources can cover expenses. Financial aid comes primarily through federal loans for graduate and professional students. Some scholarship opportunities exist, particularly for students who commit to practicing in underserved areas after graduation. The financial aid office can help students understand options and plan for debt management. Career outcomes for RFUMS graduates generally justify the investment. Physicians, pharmacists, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals command salaries that allow loan repayment while maintaining comfortable lifestyles. Demand for healthcare workers continues to grow as the population ages and medical capabilities expand. The Chicago area provides a strong job market for healthcare graduates, with major hospital systems, clinics, and healthcare companies offering opportunities. Students often complete rotations at facilities where they later seek employment, building relationships that lead to job offers. Residency match rates for medical students serve as important indicators, and RFUMS graduates match into residency programs across the country in various specialties. The university supports students through the matching process with advising, interview preparation, and strategic application guidance.

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