Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, United States • Founded 1870 • World Rank #1196
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1870, the Loyola University Chicago is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Chicago (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Illinois.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Loyola University Chicago (LUC) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Catholic religion. Loyola University Chicago (LUC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 154-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
LUC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
For visits or applications to Loyola University Chicago, location and primary contact details are below. Open days are typically announced via social channels — follow them to receive event notifications.
Academic Details
The numbers below cover the academic side of Loyola University Chicago. Academic calendar conventions vary — semester, trimester, or quarter systems each carry different teaching rhythms.
Academic Structures
Loyola University Chicago's teaching architecture in the units below. New faculties (formed in the last decade) signal where the institution is investing for the future.
Unit 12 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- Graduate School
- Graduate School of Business
- Institute of Pastoral Studies
- Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing
- School of Business Administration
- School of Communication
- School of Continuing and Professional Studies
- School of Education
- School of Law
- School of Social Work
- Stritch School of Medicine
Programs Offered
Browse Loyola University Chicago's programmes by level, or filter by name to find a specific course. The grouping helps when you have a target qualification tier but want to compare specific programme content.
239 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 82 programmes
Showing 10 of 82.
Master's Degree 74 programmes
Showing 10 of 74.
Doctorate 31 programmes
Showing 10 of 31.
Professional Doctorate 2 programmes
Associate's Degree 3 programmes
Certificate 12 programmes
Showing 10 of 12.
Postgraduate Certificate 35 programmes
Showing 10 of 35.
How to apply to Loyola University Chicago
A short guide to applying to Loyola University Chicago — five steps covering the path from programme selection to confirmation of receipt.
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Research programmes at Loyola University Chicago
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Loyola University Chicago runs 239 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
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Review admissions criteria
Before applying to Loyola University Chicago, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Loyola University Chicago's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
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4
Lodge your application
Lodge your application through the official website (www.luc.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
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Confirm receipt and track progress
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at +1 (773) 274 3000. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Loyola University Chicago
A short Q&A covering Loyola University Chicago's essentials — founding, location, scale, ranking, and academic structure.
When did Loyola University Chicago open?
Loyola University Chicago traces its founding to 1870 (approximately 156 years ago).
What city is Loyola University Chicago in?
Loyola University Chicago operates from Chicago, United States.
Is Loyola University Chicago a public or private institution?
Loyola University Chicago operates as a private institution.
How big is Loyola University Chicago's student body?
Loyola University Chicago serves approximately 15,000-19,999 students.
How is Loyola University Chicago ranked?
Loyola University Chicago is ranked #1196 globally and #177 in United States.
What is Loyola University Chicago's religious tradition?
Loyola University Chicago is associated with Christian-Catholic.
How many faculties does Loyola University Chicago have?
Loyola University Chicago is organised into 12 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises Loyola University Chicago?
Yes, Loyola University Chicago is recognised by Higher Learning Commission.
What is Loyola University Chicago's official website?
You can find Loyola University Chicago online at www.luc.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Below are the highest-ranked universities in the United States — natural comparison points for Loyola University Chicago. Top institutions in the United States typically have the strongest international recognition and graduate-school placement.
Members of International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU)
Cross-credit recognition between International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU) members reduces friction for students moving between universities. Loyola University Chicago's membership often eases credit transfer to the institutions below.
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Catholic
Religious-text study options and theology programmes appear consistently at Christian-Catholic universities. Loyola University Chicago and the peers below often share similar degree offerings in religious studies.
Faculties at nearby universities
Industry placements and co-op programmes around Loyola University Chicago draw on the same regional employer base. The nearby universities listed below often compete for similar internship slots.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Education & Teaching is taught at multiple universities across the United States — these alternatives to Loyola University Chicago are worth weighing. Each programme reflects different academic traditions, industry connections, and research priorities.
Universities Compared with Loyola University Chicago
When students choose Loyola University Chicago, they typically weigh it against institutions of similar standing. These universities sit at a comparable level — useful comparisons before committing to a final choice, especially when programme content is similar across the options.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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