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Columbia College Chicago and Concordia University-Chicago are both private nonprofit institutions — Columbia College Chicago in Chicago, IL and Concordia University-Chicago in River Forest, IL. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Chicago, IL · Private
Acceptance rate: 89.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,368
Tuition: $34,088/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 51.5%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Communication, English
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Chicago, IL with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Communication.
River Forest, IL · Private
Acceptance rate: 92.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,323
Tuition: $37,488/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 36.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a private campus in River Forest, IL with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
| Factor | Columbia College Chicago | Concordia University-Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 89.5% | 92.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 5,368 | 1,323 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $34,088/year | $37,488/year |
| Average net price after aid | $26,598 | $18,436 |
| Graduation rate | 51.5% | 36.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $42,195 | $54,089 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 15.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Chicago, IL | River Forest, IL |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Communication, English | Business and marketing, Education, Health professions |
Columbia College Chicago is more selective (89.5% vs 92.8% acceptance rate). Concordia University-Chicago has a lower average net price after grant aid ($18,436 vs $26,598). Columbia College Chicago reports the higher graduation rate (51.5% vs 36.5%). Columbia College Chicago is the larger undergraduate campus (5,368 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Columbia College Chicago and Concordia University-Chicago
Columbia College Chicago has an acceptance rate of 89.5%; Concordia University-Chicago is around 92.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Columbia College Chicago tuition is $34,088/year. Concordia University-Chicago is $37,488/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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