About College of DuPage
Most students pay far less than the $4,320 sticker price. Families earning under $30,000 typically pay just $3,576 after aid, while those earning $30,000-$48,000 pay $3,776. This represents strong value given that graduates earn a median of $46,909 ten years after starting. The typical debt load of $10,410 translates to manageable $110 monthly payments. With a 92.7% employment rate, students consistently find work after completing their programs.
The Chaparrals compete in 21 varsity sports with 349 total athletes, creating a traditional college atmosphere unusual for community colleges. The 21:1 student-faculty ratio means larger classes than at private colleges, but faculty focus on practical skills employers want. The diverse student body is 42.71% white, 28.48% Hispanic, and 10.96% Asian, reflecting the changing demographics of suburban Chicago.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 21:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 22.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 24.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $46,909
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $25,967 |
Campus Life
As a community college, there are no residence halls, so students commute from surrounding suburbs or live at home. The 21:1 student-faculty ratio means larger lecture classes, but professors know this is often students' first college experience and adjust accordingly. Weekends revolve around the extensive athletics program, which fields 21 varsity sports and draws local support. The Chaparrals compete in everything from soccer to golf, giving the campus a more traditional college atmosphere than many community colleges. Many students work part-time jobs while taking classes, reflecting the practical approach that has defined this institution since 1967.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1967
Campus Safety (2023)
6 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Burglary | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 14°–31°F
- July Avg
- 61°–84°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 40.2"
- Annual Snowfall
- 24.3"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 47.4%
- Women
- 52.6%
- White
- 42.7%
- Black
- 8.1%
- Hispanic
- 28.5%
- Asian
- 11.0%
- In-State Students
- 97.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 20.5%
Location
- Address
- Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137-6599
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $46,909
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $52,118
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $33,000
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 42.0%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $110/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $10,410
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at College of DuPage?
College of DuPage follows the open enrollment policy typical of community colleges, meaning virtually all applicants who meet basic requirements are admitted. With 15,185 students enrolled, the college serves as an accessible entry point for higher education in the western Chicago suburbs. Students can begin their college journey here regardless of high school GPA or test scores.
How much does College of DuPage cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $6,182 annually, making this one of Illinois' most affordable college options. In-state tuition runs $4,320 while out-of-state students pay $12,510. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay just $3,576 net price, demonstrating the college's commitment to accessibility.
What academic programs is College of DuPage known for?
The college operates with a 21:1 student-faculty ratio across its comprehensive program offerings. Founded in 1967, College of DuPage has built a reputation for strong transfer preparation and career training programs. Students benefit from smaller class sizes compared to four-year universities while accessing quality instruction in suburban Glen Ellyn.
What employment outcomes do College of DuPage graduates achieve?
Graduates enjoy a 92.7% employment rate, reflecting the college's focus on job-ready skills. Median earnings reach $39,600 one year after graduation and climb to $46,909 after ten years. The typical graduate carries just $10,410 in debt with monthly loan payments of $110, making the financial investment highly manageable.
Where is College of DuPage located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Glen Ellyn, a large suburb west of Chicago, serving primarily local students with 97.52% coming from Illinois. Student demographics reflect the diverse Chicagoland area with 42.71% white, 28.48% Hispanic, and 10.96% Asian students. The college fields 21 varsity sports teams known as the Chaparrals, engaging 349 student athletes.
How does College of DuPage compare to other community colleges for completion?
The college posts a 24.20% six-year graduation rate, which reflects the reality that many community college students attend part-time or transfer before completing degrees. Only 20.48% of students receive federal financial aid, indicating that many can afford the low tuition without borrowing. The college serves as both a transfer pathway and terminal degree destination for working adults.
