2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in the Chicago Area

• Evanston, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,471 reviews

Junior: Northwestern University is a great college for students hoping to find a wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Northwestern offers a wide range of courses on many different topics and because of the number of courses required to complete most majors (12-16), students in the College of Arts and Sciences are able to explore classes outside their majors at their leisure. The Quarter System can feel intimidating at first because of how fast-paced the courses can be but it also allows students to take more classes each year than a semester system which means students get to learn even more! Campus is also beautiful, located right next to Lake Michigan, so students are able to spend time outside of class at the beach and walking on the Lakefill.... Read 1,471 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $29,999

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,287 reviews

Senior: At UChicago, I found the ideal blend of rigorous academics, preprofessional resources, and an extensive alumni network, which has paved the way for my dream job in private equity investment post graduation. The academic program here is intellectually stimulating, challenging me to think critically and hone analytical skills. Collaborations with Booth Business School and the Harris School of Public Policy (YES! you can take classes at these schools during college!) have been instrumental, offering practical courses and diverse perspectives. The university's preprofessional support at Career Advancement Office has been outstanding, guiding me through internships and career development. The alumni network, filled with successful professionals, has provided invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities. The University of Chicago has been the perfect launchpad for my education and career development, and I never regret taking the offer during RD a few years back.... Read 1,287 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $33,727

• SAT range 1510-1580

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,669 reviews

Sophomore: Getting registered can be one of the most frustrating and stressful parts of returning to school. As a non-traditional student, I have had experiences at other schools that made me weary of returning. DePaul’s registration and acceptance process was a breeze! Every person that I have encountered at DePaul University has been extremely helpful and supportive. Attending DePaul University has been the best college experience that I have ever had. The staff are knowledgeable and are genuinely interested in helping the student achieve their goals. Overall my experience has been no less than awesome!... Read 3,669 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $31,872

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,005 reviews

Junior: But what can I say everything at Roosevelt University seems to be everything I've been looking for I was a prior student at Robert Morris University graduated with my associates and felt like I had everything figured out. After doing some soul searching and finding the experiences I needed in my life to continue with college I came across Roosevelt University and read everything about what they offer and what they stand for and I felt like it was the place to be. This may be the first review but I would write another one once I'm done with my classes and my degree. As for now I say go Roosevelt University!... Read 1,005 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $23,964

• SAT range 860-1120

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,089 reviews

Freshman: I really love how valued as a student I feel here. The esteemed faculty and other students continue to make me feel at home and reaffirm my choice to enroll here at Loyola. The one-on-one instruction that is provided here is unlike any other. Additionally, the opportunities offered are endless! The straight connection to the city of Chicago is immensely helpful for not only internships but the overall college experience. Loyola provides its students with the facilities to travel within the city safely and passes for the train. Loyola's emphasis on diversity inclusion is another feature that I value greatly and makes me proud to be a part of this establishment.... Read 3,089 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $29,371

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Naperville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  908 reviews

Junior: Great experience so far. I enjoy the connection I have With the professors. The campus is easy to navigate. My experience right now is better than my previous college. I don’t mind taking 4 courses. I wish it was closer to home but I don’t mind traveling to school. I haven’t tried the campus food or delis yet cause my classes are in the evening. It’s also easy to reach out to ask any sort of questions. There’s a campus safety center, and the campus is actually beautiful. I planned on graduating 2025 and I believe my experience will definitely be way better. Something I’d change is the process of actually applying and register to classes were very complicated. If there was a better system for things like that, I’d definitely would like that for everyone else’s experience. The complicated process actually discourage me to even continue with the process. Other than that, everything is good so far and I’m enjoying my attendance at this school!... Read 908 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $26,207

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  3,517 reviews

Freshman: The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is an amazing university for easing into the college life. You're not just thrown into all of the many college responsibilities at once, and they provide many resources for incoming and returning students to be successful during their four years at UIC. Even though a lot of students that attend this university are commuters, like myself, UIC provides a space for us to do work and it still feels like a community. They always have events taking place on campus and sometimes in other places around Chicago. The people here are nice for the most part and they ensure that no one has to deal with sexual misconduct, harassment, peer pressure, hazing, or anything else along those lines. UIC also has astounding programs that help keep students on track, express themselves and their identity through sexuality and or culture, and help sharpen skills in things that students are interested in. The campus is very diverse with all walks of life. Come join UIC!... Read 3,517 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,725

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,766 reviews

Sophomore: I love the diversity, acceptance and creativity found everywhere at Columbia! My innovative major-Contemporary, Jazz and Popular-music allows me to combine jazz studies, performance, production and composition while playing in a wide range of showcase ensembles and independent bands. My instructors all work in their fields and provide hands-on opportunities. As a freshman I was able to work in the field -- rearranging new music for a musical theater project with a composer out of LA-- and get paid due to an internship with a professor. We have wonderful guest artists and composers on campus for workshops and more every semester.A lot of amazing opportunities exist if you are open to them due to the thriving city of Chicago and strong connections/programs in LA. It is a school for artists and creatives from around the world that deserves better rankings on Niche, rankings more in keeping with the kudos it gets from Hollywood Reporter for its music and film programs!... Read 2,766 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $25,262

• SAT range —

• Valparaiso, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,135 reviews

Junior: Valparaiso University is a small school in Valparaiso, Indiana who's boasts are its rich history with the Lutheran church, its nationally ranked college of engineering, college of nursing, and meteorology program. When it comes to academics, Valpo has tried its best to support me in both my successes and struggles. While the structural portion of the civil engineering courses seems to be subpar currently, all other classes have been advantageous for my degree. The College of engineering has helpful professors and helping hands offered by other students because of its small size. Socially, Valpo may be a little more difficult to navigate because there is a low student population. But, Valpo does try to offer everything it can to suit your wants and needs. As a christian, I was struggling to find a group. But I found the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a worship service called Celebrate! in which I now participate weekly in both. Valpo has served me well.... Read 1,135 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $21,997

• SAT range 1070-1280

• River Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  500 reviews

Graduate Student: My experience at Concordia University Chicago has been incredible! From dedicated faculty to a vibrant campus community, it's been a journey of growth and learning. The small class sizes, diverse opportunities, and career support have all contributed to a fulfilling college experience.... Read 500 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $18,817

• SAT range 990-1180

• Aurora, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  840 reviews

Freshman: My experience with Aurora University has been great. I'm earning my bachelor's degree in psychology online at Aurora University. Their staff is very supportive and helpful with questions you may have, financial aid, your courses, and many other things. My counselors are very friendly, the staff at their bookstore is friendly, and overall their staff is amiable and I haven't had an issue with anyone. I can't wait to continue my 4-year journey with this university!... Read 840 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $17,410

• SAT range 960-1130

• Romeoville, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  944 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Lewis University so far has been truly amazing. I found the University to be very welcoming, safe, and inclusive. Lewis University truly abide by its La Sallian mission and truly support student all student and makes available all the resources needed for success. Even though overall I would consider Lewis University amazing, some things that I would like to see change are more university-funded activities for students to engage in and to make better use of certain open green spaces.... Read 944 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $18,312

• SAT range 1050-1240

• Elmhurst, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,075 reviews

Sophomore: Elmhurst University is the best in state college I could've chose! My experience at the university is/was absolutely amazing. The small student body provided me more chances to form close bonds with instructors and fellow students, resulting in a more tailored and interesting learning environment. With a plethora of extracurricular activities, groups, and events to participate in, this sense of community goes beyond the classroom and guarantees you enjoy the "college experience" that I truly do like. The school offers lots of options for research projects, study abroad programs, and internships, so you can broaden your horizons and get experience while pursuing your degree. The campus is a great place to live, learn, and develop because it is lovely and well-equipped with amenities. However, I feel as if they could expand its scholarship and financial assistance programs. It could enable Elmhurst University to serve a wider student body at a lower cost of education.... Read 1,075 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $24,018

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Gary, IN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.28 out of 5  734 reviews

Junior: Indiana University Northwest is a great place to pursue higher education. As a college student, I have had a wonderful experience here. The class sizes are small, which allows for more personalized attention from professors. This has helped me establish a better understanding of concepts and succeed in my courses. The university is also affordable, with financial aid and scholarship options available for eligible students. The campus is diverse, and students come from different backgrounds, which has been an enriching experience. The university has a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs and organizations that cater to different interests. This has provided me with opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and build my social network. The only downside to IUN is its location in Gary, which carries a reputation for high crime rates. However, the university has taken measures to ensure the safety of its students, and I have never felt unsafe on campus.... Read 734 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $5,625

• SAT range 940-1140

• River Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  746 reviews

Senior: I like that the professors engage the whole class to participate and make sure the students aren't awkward and not talking to each other. I previously went to UIC and when we did group work we would not talk to each other and the professors would not do anything. At Dominican University they allow you to grow and expand your wings! What I would like to see change is allowing scholarships for European immigrant families, I come from a European family and it is a struggle to afford such expensive tuition. Especially when you are taking 22 credit hours and are 4 credit hours at an overload which is 5 thousand dollars extra and they give you no help. European families also struggle yet universities do not see that because many workers have told me that since I am White there is nothing they can do :(... Read 746 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $18,476

• SAT range 910-1160

• Chicago, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  710 reviews

Senior: North Park is incredibly gifted at preparing students for practical knowledge needed in healthcare, and stem-related jobs. The small class structure allows for students to develop a plan with faculty for their future, and brings more opportunities such as research to more of the student body than many larger schools where it is more competitive for those positions. Overall, a wonderful experience at NPU, and would recommend the school for someone who cares solely about developing academically, and having a close-knit student body.... Read 710 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $20,260

• SAT range 890-1140

• University Park, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  399 reviews

Freshman: After going to open house at Governors State I've decided to make this my college of choice. The student to teacher loyalty is something that I'm getting to know, even those who take online courses are treated so fairly. Their faculty is very accommodating and the campus is very modern. Since starting summer school there I've had a blast and I can't wait to begin my journey there this fall. Go Jaguars!... Read 399 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 52%

• Net price $9,943

• SAT range 830-1060

• Lake Forest, IL•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  483 reviews

Senior: I had a great experience at LFC! The location is very local at first, but I grew to love it and take advantage of how gorgeous Lake Forest is. You kind of have to see with a Gilmore girls kind of lenses to truly appreciate it. And of course being near Chicago was also a lot of fun - trying new dinner spots and especially having the chance to have an internship a short train ride away. Definitely would recommend getting an apartment for later years (junior and senior) after making your friends - if you haven’t met your people by sophomore year, keep holding out on campus to ensure you are able to meet new people before graduating. I never attended the campus events other than HOCO, I just went to parties on campus or to the bars near by when I wanted to socialize. And the career center is incredible, we have many connections to great companies. Classes are great and small, but like any school there are the good and bad professors.... Read 483 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $25,126

• SAT range —