DePaul University Ranking Profile

Founded in 1898, DePaul University stands as the largest private university in Illinois and one of the most respected institutions of higher learning in the United States. With its urban campus situated in the heart of Chicago, DePaul combines the best of a comprehensive academic environment with the advantages of being located in one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the country. As an institution rooted in the Vincentian tradition, DePaul places a strong emphasis on service, inclusivity, and community, which are integral to the university's mission.

Historical Background and Institutional Values

DePaul University was established by the Vincentian Fathers, a religious order founded in the 17th century by St. Vincent de Paul. With the aim of providing higher education to the underserved, DePaul was built upon a foundation of accessibility and social justice. Throughout its history, DePaul has remained committed to providing an affordable, quality education, particularly for first-generation college students and those from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

As the largest private university in Illinois, DePaul boasts a strong legacy of serving the community. It has maintained its identity as an institution that fosters an environment where students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to succeed and become responsible citizens. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its curricula, student life, and the support systems that ensure all students can thrive.

Academic Structure

DePaul University offers a comprehensive array of academic programs across its 10 colleges and schools, catering to students interested in a wide variety of disciplines. With a faculty known for its scholarly achievements and commitment to teaching, DePaul provides students with an enriching academic experience designed to prepare them for leadership roles in their respective fields.

College of Law

One of DePaul University’s most prominent and highly regarded programs is its College of Law. The College of Law has earned numerous accolades, particularly for its commitment to diversity and excellence in specialized fields. The law school is recognized as one of the top law schools for Hispanic students, ranking 12th in the nation for total enrollment of Hispanic law students, according to The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education (2009). The health law and intellectual property programs are also highly ranked, with both coming in 13th in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. Furthermore, the law school offers a part-time program that has gained national recognition, ranking 21st in U.S. News & World Report (2010). This diversity of legal programs makes DePaul’s College of Law an appealing choice for law students seeking a well-rounded, specialized legal education.

Entrepreneurship Programs

DePaul is also known for its strong focus on entrepreneurship, a field in which the university excels. Its undergraduate and graduate programs in entrepreneurship are consistently ranked among the top in the nation. Entrepreneur Magazine ranked DePaul’s undergraduate program 8th and its graduate program 9th in the country in 2009. This distinction speaks to the university’s dedication to fostering innovation and providing students with the practical skills needed to succeed in the competitive world of business.

DePaul’s Center for Creativity and Innovation has also been lauded for its work in nurturing future entrepreneurs. The center was named one of the top 10 university entrepreneurial hot spots by Fortune Small Business in 2006, further solidifying the university’s reputation as a leader in fostering new business ideas and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Other Notable Programs

In addition to law and entrepreneurship, DePaul offers a wide range of programs that are highly regarded in their respective fields. The MBA program has been ranked among the top 3 business schools in Chicago by Crain's Chicago Business (2006). DePaul also stands out for its efforts to award advanced degrees to Latino and Hispanic students, consistently ranking among the top institutions in the nation for minority degree production, as recognized by The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education and Diverse Issues in Higher Education.

Accreditations and Recognition

DePaul University’s academic programs are accredited by a number of prestigious national and international organizations. The university’s College of Law, for instance, is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring that its programs meet rigorous standards of legal education. Furthermore, its business programs hold accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a mark of excellence that is awarded to fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide.

The university’s commitment to providing a high-quality education is evident in the broad range of accreditations its programs hold. DePaul’s status as a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) reflects its commitment to research, scholarship, and academic excellence. These accreditations not only enhance the university’s reputation but also ensure that students receive an education that meets the highest standards in their chosen fields.

Diversity and Campus Life

DePaul University places a strong emphasis on creating a diverse, inclusive campus environment. In 2008, DePaul was ranked No. 10 in the nation in the "Diverse Student Population" category by The Princeton Review, a testament to its commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for students from all walks of life. The university offers a range of student organizations, cultural events, and support services designed to help students from diverse backgrounds thrive academically, socially, and professionally.

DePaul’s campus is known for its vibrant, urban setting. The university’s location in Chicago provides students with access to a wealth of opportunities in the city’s business, arts, technology, and public sectors. The urban campus, often described as one of the "Most Beautiful Campuses in an Urban Setting" by Kaplan Publishing, allows students to take advantage of the rich cultural, professional, and social opportunities that Chicago offers, all while enjoying the close-knit, supportive community found on campus.

Community Engagement and Global Outreach

As a university deeply committed to social justice and global awareness, DePaul is one of only seven colleges and universities worldwide to be granted Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status by the United Nations Department of Public Information. This prestigious recognition reflects the university’s commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development. DePaul students are encouraged to engage with the broader community, both locally and globally, through service-learning opportunities, internships, and study-abroad programs that allow them to apply their education in real-world settings.

Rankings and Achievements

DePaul University’s consistent ranking in various national and international lists highlights its strength as a premier educational institution. Among its numerous accolades, DePaul is ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s Tier 3 National Universities for 2010 and is also recognized for its strong part-time law program. In addition to its academic achievements, DePaul has been featured in several other rankings, including being named the #1 "Great College Town" by The Princeton Review (2008), which underscores the dynamic student experience provided by the university’s location in Chicago.

DePaul’s entrepreneurial spirit is also reflected in its recognition as a top destination for budding business owners. Its MBA program is highly rated in the competitive Chicago market, and the university’s focus on creativity and innovation continues to make it an appealing choice for students interested in business leadership and entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

DePaul University has earned its place as one of the top private institutions in the United States through its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and social justice. With strong programs in law, entrepreneurship, business, and a variety of other fields, DePaul provides its students with the skills, resources, and support necessary to succeed in today’s competitive global landscape. The university’s beautiful campus, located in one of the world’s most exciting cities, offers students an unparalleled opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally.

Whether pursuing a degree in business, law, education, or any number of other disciplines, students at DePaul benefit from a rigorous academic environment, a strong sense of community, and access to the vibrant professional opportunities that Chicago has to offer. For those seeking an education that combines academic excellence, social responsibility, and a global perspective, DePaul University is an outstanding choice.