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Columbia College Chicago and Dominican University are both private nonprofit institutions — Columbia College Chicago in Chicago, IL and Dominican University 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: 90.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,561
Tuition: $38,978/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 55.3%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a private campus in River Forest, IL with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Columbia College Chicago | Dominican University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 89.5% | 90.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 880–1100 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | Not reported | 16–26 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 5,368 | 2,561 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $34,088/year | $38,978/year |
| Average net price after aid | $26,598 | $11,745 |
| Graduation rate | 51.5% | 55.3% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $42,195 | $60,327 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 15.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Chicago, IL | River Forest, IL |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Communication, English | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (89.5% vs 90.3%). Dominican University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($11,745 vs $26,598). Dominican University reports the higher graduation rate (55.3% vs 51.5%). 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 Dominican University
Columbia College Chicago has an acceptance rate of 89.5%; Dominican University is around 90.3%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Columbia College Chicago tuition is $34,088/year. Dominican University is $38,978/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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