DePauw University vs DePaul University

DePauw University vs DePaul University

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

DePaul, being a research university, has a better global strength compared to DePauw, a liberal arts college. DePaul is ranked internationally and by discipline (Carnegie R2, with strength in Business, Communication, and Performing Arts). In QS/EduRank-style rankings, DePaul is generally ranked 901–950 internationally with subject-specific strength in Business and Communication. DePauw, being a liberal arts university, is not ranked internationally but nationally recognized, placed at approximately 45th in U.S. News National Liberal Arts Colleges 2025, and is repeatedly mentioned for undergraduate instruction (top 10 nationally).

General Information

DePaul is much larger, with a total enrollment of 21,348 versus DePauw's 1,900. DePaul has more than 300 undergraduate and graduate programs offered in 10 colleges, focusing on professional and creative education in its urban Chicago campuses. DePauw offers approximately 75 undergraduate majors in liberal arts, sciences, and music, with an emphasis on an individualized education in small classes (10:1 student-faculty ratio). DePauw's rural setting allows a close-knit campus atmosphere, whereas DePaul's urban location is part of Chicago's business and cultural centers.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

DePaul's acceptance rate is slightly higher at 73–75% than DePauw's 54%. Both are test-optional. DePauw's admitted student profile indicates SAT middle 50% of 1130–1350 and ACT of 26–31 with average GPA of 3.65–4.2. DePaul's admitted students have an average GPA of 3.8, SAT of approximately 1240, and ACT of approximately 28 (optional submission). DePauw's smaller applicant pool results in a higher enrollment rate (yield ~13%). DePauw focuses on holistic admissions with a leadership and extracurricular emphasis, whereas DePaul focuses on accessibility and readiness for professional programs.

Research Impact & Facilities

DePaul, a Doctoral University (High Research Activity) R2, specializes in Business, Communication, Computing, and Social Sciences with urban campus resources and Chicago partnerships. Professional studies are augmented by its library and research institutes. DePauw, a Baccalaureate Liberal Arts College, emphasizes undergraduate research in Economics, Humanities, and Sciences with smaller-scale facilities like the Hubbard Center. Though DePaul's research output is greater, DePauw focuses on individual research opportunities for undergraduate students.

Cost & Financial Aid

DePauw's under grad tuition costs around $60,310, with room/board approximately $15,790 (2025–26 academic year). DePaul is less expensive at around $45,000, with room/board approximately $18,000–19,000. DePauw offers aid to nearly 100% of students, with an average of $46,000+ in institutional grants, frequently fulfilling full demonstrated need. DePaul offers aid to roughly 90% of students, with average aid packages around $24,000–26,000. DePauw's higher aid compensates for its more expensive tuition, while DePaul's urban location raises living costs but provides greater program access.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

DePauw graduates receive slightly higher median wages ($70,500 compared to DePaul's $68,700 ten years after entry) and boast a higher graduation rate (82% compared to 70%). DePauw alumni do exceptionally well in Economics, Finance, Liberal Arts, and Law, as well as in graduate placements (approximately 70% pursue advanced degrees). DePaul alumni do well in Business, Communication, and Performing Arts, taking advantage of Chicago's business and creative sectors. DePauw’s alumni network of about 30,000 fosters close connections, while DePaul’s large network of 200,000+ supports diverse and expansive career paths.