Roosevelt University, established in 1945, is a private institution located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. Named after President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, the university was founded on principles of inclusivity and social justice, aiming to provide quality higher education to diverse populations. It has two campuses: the main campus in Chicago, nestled in the bustling downtown area known as the Loop, and a suburban campus in Schaumburg. Over the years, Roosevelt has grown from a single building to a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
One of the defining features of Roosevelt University is its commitment to social justice and community engagement. It was one of the first universities in the United States to admit students regardless of race, religion, or gender, and this inclusive ethos continues to permeate its culture. The university is known for its vibrant and diverse student body, which creates a dynamic and enriching learning environment. Additionally, Roosevelt's prime location in Chicago offers students unparalleled access to cultural, professional, and academic opportunities in one of the nation’s largest cities.
Academically, Roosevelt University provides rigorous programs across its six colleges, including the Chicago College of Performing Arts, Heller College of Business, and College of Arts and Sciences. It is particularly renowned for its performing arts programs, especially in music and theatre, where students benefit from proximity to Chicago’s rich arts scene. The university also boasts strong programs in psychology, education, and hospitality management. With small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personalized learning, Roosevelt emphasizes experiential learning and critical thinking.
Despite its strengths, Roosevelt University faces certain challenges. Financial difficulties have been a concern, impacting resources and facilities, with recent years seeing efforts to stabilize the university's budget through strategic partnerships and restructuring. The suburban Schaumburg campus has also seen declining enrollment, which has led to a reduction in course offerings and student services there. While the Chicago campus enjoys the vibrancy and resources of an urban setting, some students find the cost of living in downtown Chicago to be high. Nevertheless, the university continues to work on enhancing its facilities and expanding its academic offerings to address these issues.
