Chicago State University
Chicago State University has an acceptance rate of 43.3%, an average net price of $7,273, and an overall rank of #1507 (Grade C+). About 14.9% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $57,842 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2027 rankings.
Chicago State University is a public university in Chicago, IL. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Liberal Arts and Sciences Studies and Humanities.
Day to day, students benefit from a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, and 57.3% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 147.1%, roughly 97.2 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore and career-focused learners aiming for high-impact outcomes.
Who is Chicago State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Chicago State University graduates 14.9% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 38.0% and keeps 57.3% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Chicago State University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Est. annual aid gap: $16,220 Cash cost of attendance minus average net price after aid.
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $13,358 |
| Books and Supplies | $3,400 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $12,810 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,500 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $23,493 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 65.4% of Chicago State University students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $7,266 to $8,093 depending on family income. Use Chicago State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $13,863/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $8,093/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $57,842
- 10-Year Median Earnings $48,395
- Average Years to Graduate 5.4 years
- Average Student Debt $29,308
- Debt-to-Earnings ~50.7%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 24.9%
- Employment Rate 89.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Chicago State University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
Chicago State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Chicago State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Chicago State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Chicago State University graduates report median earnings of $57,842 five years after graduation, 6% below the national median. The 147.1% ROI indicates solid long-term value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,384
- Full-Time Students 68.6%
- Part-Time Students 31.4%
- Retention Rate 57.3%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 14.9%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 38.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 9:1
How to Get Into Chicago State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Chicago State University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 43.3%, Chicago State University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Chicago State University accepts 43.3% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Chicago State University undergraduates. Psychology, General, Business Administration, Management and Operations, and Criminal Justice and Corrections draw the most students.
- Psychology, General 19.3%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 16.3%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 12.5%
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Hum 10.6%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 6.1%
- Biology, General 4.5%
See more majors
- Sociology 4.5%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 3.8%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $93,070
- 2. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $67,701
- 3. Criminal Justice and Corrections $63,685
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $62,901
- 5. Biology, General $59,545
- 6. Business Administration, Management and Operations $53,081
- 7. Psychology, General $47,120
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree) $138,252
- 2. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree) $78,061
- 3. Social Work (Master's Degree) $72,176
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $93,070—98% more than Psychology, General ($47,120). Graduate: Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration programs lead with $138,252 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
U.S. Department of Education data reports fully online programs for Chicago State University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 51 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 43 graduates)
- Computer Science (Master's Degree, 39 graduates)
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 33 graduates)
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree, 31 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
U.S. Department of Education data flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (26 programs)▼
- Psychology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Sociology
- Biology, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Computer Science
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Political Science and Government
- Music
- History
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physics
- Mathematics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Chemistry
- International/Globalization Studies
- Geography and Cartography
Online Master's Degrees (19 programs)▼
- Computer Science
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Special Education and Teaching
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Geography and Cartography
- History
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Mathematics
- Biology, General
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Management Information Systems and Services
- English Language and Literature, General
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (10 programs)▼
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Geography and Cartography
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Social Work
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Library Science and Administration
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Computer Science
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)▼
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,384
- Full-Time Students 68.6%
- Part-Time Students 31.4%
- Male Students 30.5%
- Female Students 69.5%
- Caucasian 2.7%
- Asian 1.1%
- Hispanic 9.8%
- Black 76.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 65.4%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Chicago State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Chicago State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Chicago State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Chicago State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Chicago State University has a diverse student body, with 2.7% identifying as White. Women make up 69.5% of undergraduates. 65.4% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Chicago State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Chicago State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Chicago State University serves as a highly accessible university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1507 overall with a 147.1% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $7,273 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $57,842 median earnings. The 14.9% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 57.3% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Chicago State University's Strengths
Ranked #1507 with a C+ grade, Chicago State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Chicago State University excel at providing affordable education ($7,273 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Chicago State University's 57.3% retention and 14.9% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($57,842 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Chicago State University's 147.1% ROI and $7,273 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 14.9% graduation rate sits 47.6 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 57.3% first-year retention is 19.5 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- 147.1% return on investment is 97.2 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $57,842 run about 6% lower than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $7,273 is roughly $12,608 lower than the national median of $19,881.
Helpfulness for Students
- 9:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 57.3% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 89.4% employment rate within three years sits 21.2 points above national outcomes.
- 78.4% of students borrow federal loans, outpacing typical campuses and raising repayment stakes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Chicago, IL, Chicago State University operates as a public university and receives a C+ from EDsmart. It appears at #1507 in EDsmart's rankings Category results include Completion (D+), Support (C+), Career Outcomes (B-), and Affordability (A).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2027 rankings methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 57.3% of first-year students return; 14.9% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 38.0%. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 147.1%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $7,273 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $23,493.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $16,220 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $29,308 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 65.4% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $57,842 five years after graduation. That sits about 6% below the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 89.4% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 147.1%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
43.3% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Chicago State University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Cite this profile
Add your access date when you publish.
APA (7th): EDsmart. (2026). Chicago State University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/chicago-state-university/
MLA (9th): “Chicago State University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/chicago-state-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “Chicago State University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/chicago-state-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicago State University's acceptance rate?
Chicago State University's acceptance rate is 43.3%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does Chicago State University cost?
At Chicago State University, the average net price after grants and scholarships is $7,273 per year. That covers tuition, books, and living costs, which total $23,493 a year before aid. Tuition and fees alone are $13,358. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Chicago State University's ranking?
Chicago State University ranks #1507 overall in EDsmart's 2027 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Chicago State University's graduation rate?
At Chicago State University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 14.9% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 38.0%, and first-year retention is 57.3%.
What are Chicago State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Chicago State University report median earnings of $57,842 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Chicago State University's student population?
Chicago State University enrolls about 1,384 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 9501 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL 60628-1598
- Website www.csu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$7.7M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate37.0%