Aurora University: A Complete Guide to Academics, Admissions, and Campus Life
Choosing the right university is a pivotal decision. Aurora University (AU) , located in the western suburbs of Chicago, has been a respected institution for over a century. Known for its student-centric approach and affordable tuition, AU offers a unique blend of small-class intimacy and big-resource opportunities. Get an Aurora University degree online.
This article provides a deep dive into everything you need to know about Aurora University, including academics, admission requirements, cost, and student life.
An Overview of Aurora University
Founded in 1893, Aurora University is a private, nonprofit university with its main campus in Aurora, Illinois, and additional locations in Woodstock and at Orchard Road in Oswego. Originally known as the Mendota Seminary, the school has evolved into a comprehensive university serving over 6,000 students annually.
AU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers more than 50 undergraduate majors, master’s degrees, and doctoral programs. The university prides itself on its inclusive community and high graduation rates compared to similar regional institutions. How can I order an Aurora University diploma?
Academic Programs and Schools
Aurora University is organized into several distinct colleges, each catering to specific career paths:
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College of Arts & Sciences: The traditional liberal arts core, offering majors in Biology, Psychology, Criminal Justice, English, and History.
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George Williams College of Education: Highly regarded for its teacher preparation programs and social work degrees (BSW and MSW).
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College of Business: Offers AACSB-accredited business programs (a mark of excellence held by only 5% of the world’s business schools). Popular majors include Marketing, Management, and Healthcare Administration.
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College of Health and Human Performance: Includes Nursing, Athletic Training, Public Health, and Exercise Science.
Notable Features:
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Small Class Sizes: The student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1, ensuring personalized attention.
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Accelerated Options: AU offers evening and online programs designed for working adults returning to complete their degrees.
Admissions Requirements
Getting into Aurora University is considered moderately competitive. Here is what prospective students need to apply:
First-Year Students
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Application Form: Common Application or AU’s free online application.
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High School GPA: The average incoming GPA ranges from 3.0 to 3.5. Students with lower GPAs may be conditionally admitted.
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Test Scores: AU has a test-optional policy. SAT/ACT scores are not required for admission or merit scholarships, though students may submit them if they wish.
Transfer Students
Aurora University is very transfer-friendly. The school accepts credits from regionally accredited institutions (with a grade of “C” or better) and boasts a seamless transfer pathway from the College of DuPage and other Illinois community colleges.
Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
Cost is a major factor for any college search. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the estimated costs are as follows:
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Tuition (Full-time undergraduate): Approximately 28,000−30,000 per year (before aid).
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Room and Board: Approximately 12,000−13,000.
The “Spartan Commitment”
Aurora University offers a unique financial promise called the Spartan Commitment. It guarantees that Illinois residents with a family income of $75,000 or less will pay zero tuition (fees and housing still apply) through a combination of grants, state aid, and AU scholarships.
Over 95% of full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. Students should file the FAFSA (school code: 001634) by the priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility.
Campus Life and The “Spartan” Experience
Aurora University students are known as Spartans. The campus culture balances rigorous academics with active engagement.
Athletics
AU competes in NCAA Division III as a member of the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) . The university fields 23 varsity sports, including football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling. The athletic facilities include the brand-new Spartan Athletic Park and the Thornton Gymnasium.
Student Organizations
With over 70 student-run clubs and organizations, there is something for everyone. Popular groups include the Student Government Association (SGA), the AU Chorale, the Echo (student newspaper), and various cultural and service fraternities/sororities.
Housing
First-year students are encouraged to live on campus to build community. Residence halls are divided into traditional rooms (shared hall bathrooms) and suite-style (private bathrooms shared by a small group). Living Learning Communities (LLCs) are available for specific majors like Nursing or Criminal Justice.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Success
Attending Aurora University is a strategic career move. The institution focuses heavily on experiential learning.
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Internships: Due to its proximity to Chicago (only 40 miles west), AU students have access to internships at Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, and government agencies.
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Graduate Placement: The university reports that 95% of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or serving in the military within six months of graduation.
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Alumni Network: AU has a strong foothold in the Illinois education and healthcare sectors. Many local superintendents, principals, and hospital administrators are AU alumni.
Why Choose Aurora University?
If you are looking for an affordable private university with a focus on getting you a job upon graduation, Aurora University is an excellent choice. Here is a quick recap of the pros:
✅ Cost: The “Spartan Commitment” makes tuition free for low-income Illinois residents.
✅ Class Size: Personalized attention from professors (no 500-person lecture halls).
✅ Location: Close to Chicago (jobs/entertainment) but in a safe, suburban setting.
✅ Flexibility: Strong online and evening programs for working adults.