Chicago State University

What is the history of Chicago State University?

Chicago State University (CSU) began in 1867 as the Cook County Normal School, established to train teachers. It later became Chicago Teachers College, then Chicago State College, before taking its current name in 1971.

The university's teacher-training origins remain visible in its education programs, but its academic scope has expanded to include business, health professions, the sciences, humanities, and graduate study. CSU moved to its present South Side campus in the early 1970s. That history matters to applicants: this is a public university with a long connection to Chicago and a broader mission than its original teacher-preparation role.

What are the faculties and departments at Chicago State University?

Chicago State University organizes its academic programs across colleges that include Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Health Sciences and Pharmacy. Its offerings span bachelor's and graduate study, with professional programs subject to their own admission and progression rules.

Representative fields include biology, computer science, criminal justice, psychology, business administration, teacher education, nursing, and pharmacy. A prospective student should check the current academic catalog for the exact degree title and available concentration: admission to CSU does not necessarily mean admission to a selective clinical, teacher-licensure, or professional program. Program requirements can also determine when a transfer student may begin major coursework.

What is the location of Chicago State University?

Chicago State University's main campus is at 9501 South King Drive on Chicago's South Side. It is an urban campus, and commuting is a significant part of the student experience.

The campus has access to Chicago Transit Authority service and regional road connections; students planning a commute should check the route and travel time for their actual class schedule, particularly for evening courses. Chicago Midway International Airport is the nearer of the city's two major airports. CSU's location also puts students in a large metropolitan job market, although access to a particular internship or workplace depends on transportation, scheduling, and employer requirements.

What is the mission and vision of Chicago State University?

Chicago State University describes its mission in terms of accessible higher education, academic and professional preparation, research, and service to Chicago and beyond. Its public-university identity and history of educating teachers are important context for those stated priorities.

Mission and vision statements describe institutional aims, not measured outcomes. Applicants can test how those aims apply to them by looking at the curriculum in their intended major, the availability of required courses, student support services, and the graduation outcomes discussed below. CSU is a public institution rather than a religiously affiliated university.