1867
Chicago, IL

About Chicago State University

Originally established as a school to train students for teaching, today Chicago State offers a range of academic programs, in the arts and sciences, business, education, and other areas. Faculty and staff instill values of academic integrity and personal achievement. They promote innovative thinking and a desire for lifelong learning. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are also emphasized as students prepare for leadership roles in the community and beyond.

Chicago State hosts online courses and degree programs for professionals who desire to further their education but appreciate the convenience of virtual classrooms. Complete distance learning graduate programs in education or enroll in an individual course. This is an ideal option for independent learners who have a computer with internet access.

Accreditation & Licensing

Chicago State University is accredited by:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Type:

4-year, Public

Highest Level Offered:

Doctor's degree

Religious Affiliation:

Not applicable

Enrollment:

Undergraduate: 1,832 ; Graduate: 1,022

Percent of Fully Online Students:

Undergraduate: 20% ; Graduate: 24%

Graduation Rate:

15%

Transfer Rate:

37%

Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:

$42,778

Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):

$30,625

Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:

81%

Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:

$16,207

Yellow Ribbon Program:

Yes

Credit for Military Training:

Yes

Online Programs offered by Chicago State University

Check Program Availability

All Programs

Education

Best Buy degree
Master of Science in Education / Physical Education
Popular degreeBest Buy degree
Master of Science in Library & Information Science
Master of Science in Technology & Performance Improvement Studies
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Archives & Records Management
GetEducated Team Takes
Tony’s Take

Chicago State University can be a solid choice, especially if cost matters most. Tuition is affordable, and the school is accessible for many students. Evening and weekend classes also make it easier for working adults to stay on track.

In class, students often get a good learning experience. Class sizes are small to moderate, so it is easier to get attention. Professors are knowledgeable and responsive, and tutoring in many subjects gives useful academic help.

The best fit is for students who want lower cost and direct faculty support. School services outside class can feel uneven at times, so clear planning helps. For many students, the mix of affordability and classroom support is a strong plus.

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Reviewed By GetEducated
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago State University

Is Chicago State University accredited?

Yes. Chicago State University is institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

How many online programs does Chicago State University offer?

Chicago State University offers 4 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.

What degree levels does Chicago State University offer?

Chicago State University is focused on master's-level programs.

How should students contact admissions at Chicago State University?

Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.

Is Chicago State University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?

Roughly speaking, Chicago State University falls into GetEducated’s $$ tuition tier, which points to a mid tuition range.

How quickly can I enroll at Chicago State University?

Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.

What should transfer students ask Chicago State University first?

The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.

What GPA do most Chicago State University programs require?

Most listed programs require a minimum GPA of 2.8.

Is Chicago State University military friendly?

Chicago State University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.

How can students request information from Chicago State University through GetEducated?

Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.

What documents are most commonly required for Chicago State University applications?

Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose/Intent, and Occupational License. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.

Does Chicago State University accept life experience credit?

Chicago State University accepts life experience credit, but qualifying can be harder than expected and fees may still apply. Check Transfer Options to confirm what applies to your program.

Are Chicago State University programs fully online or mixed?

Chicago State University includes 100% Online and Mostly Online options, so students should check the format of their specific program before applying.

Do any Chicago State University programs have specialized accreditation?

Program-specific accreditors include American Library Association (ALA).

Are any admission tests required for Chicago State University programs?

One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.

Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Chicago State University?

Some programs show different in-state and out-of-state tuition totals, so check your specific program cost.

Do any Chicago State University programs have state authorization limitations?

State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.

How often can students start at Chicago State University?

Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Chicago State University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.

How should working adults compare Chicago State University programs?

Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.

What should students compare before choosing a Chicago State University program?

Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.

Featured Ranking Reports

Chicago State University is featured in 2 of our ranking reports!

GetEducated continually compiles custom ranking reports to give you a complete snapshot of schools, degrees, tuition, and a detailed report on thousands of job categories throughout the entire education industry.

We provide these comprehensive ranking reports to you, for free. Click on any report below to learn more about how we ranked this school.

Geographic and Educational Overview

Google Map

Chicago State University is located in Illinois

Illinois at a Glance:

State flag of IL
Springfield
12,812,508
57,914 sq mi
12
85
48
$13,500.00

Top Majors in Illinois:

Top Incentives in Illinois:

Top Career Pathways in Illinois:

Financial Analysis
  • Entry Level: Financial Analyst ($65,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Analyst ($95,000)
  • Senior Level: Finance Director ($150,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Finance
  • Certifications: CFA, FRM
* Data is approximate and may be AI-enhanced