Aurora University
The Vibe Check
Aurora University offers a tight-knit, community-focused atmosphere where students are known by name, not just by ID number. The suburban campus feels like a supportive home base, fostering a hands-on learning environment where faculty genuinely invest in your success. It's a place where practical skills and personal growth are prioritized over ivory-tower theory.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The academic experience is career-oriented, with standout programs in health professions, business, and education that emphasize real-world application. Small class sizes ensure direct access to professors who bring professional experience into the classroom. While research opportunities exist, the focus is more on undergraduate engagement and experiential learning than on large-scale, graduate-level projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Aurora
Students enjoy the Fox River Trail for biking and running, and explore downtown Aurora's growing arts scene, including the Paramount Theatre and local restaurants. For larger entertainment options, the campus is a reasonable drive from Chicago's world-class attractions. On-campus life is active with numerous student clubs, Division III NCAA sports, and community events.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($58,709):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with its own campus safety department providing 24/7 patrols and emergency response services. The surrounding Aurora area has typical suburban safety considerations, so students are advised to practice standard urban-awareness habits when off-campus.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong, career-focused programs in high-demand fields like nursing and accounting
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for many students
- ✓ Small class sizes foster a supportive, personalized learning environment
- ✓ Suburban location offers a quiet study environment with access to Chicago via a short drive
Cons
- ✗ The 59% graduation rate is below the national average, suggesting some students may struggle to finish
- ✗ Campus nightlife and off-campus entertainment are limited compared to a larger city
- ✗ As a smaller university, the range of research facilities and specialized majors may be narrower
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Aurora University is particularly known for its strong and practical programs in Health Professions (especially Nursing), Business & Marketing, and Education. It has a reputation for providing a hands-on, career-oriented education with a focus on serving the community, reflected in its motto 'Your Degree with a Purpose.'
No, Aurora University is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 85.14%. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1072, and the university looks for students with a solid academic foundation, though a strong personal essay and extracurricular involvement are also important parts of the application.
Campus life is community-oriented and engaging, with a focus on student involvement through over 50 clubs and organizations and 22 Division III sports teams. The suburban setting provides a classic college campus feel, with residence halls and student centers serving as social hubs, while the proximity to the Fox River and downtown Aurora offers additional recreational opportunities.
For many students, Aurora University represents a solid financial value. With an average net price of under $19,000 and strong outcomes in fields like healthcare and business, the return on investment is competitive. The 10-year median earnings of $58,709 indicate that graduates are earning a solid wage that can justify the cost of the degree over time.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 4,458
- In-State Tuition $28,220
- Zip Code 60506
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $18,992 and a high Pell Grant rate, Aurora is a financially accessible option for many families, especially compared to private universities in major metro areas. The 10-year median earnings of $58,709 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like nursing and business. The fixed tuition rate also provides financial predictability throughout your four years.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.