DePaul University

ABOUT UNIVERSITY

DePaul University is a private Catholic research university located in Chicago. Founded in 1898 by the Congregation of the Mission, it is named after Saint Vincent de Paul, a 17th-century priest known for his commitment to serving the poor. Reflecting its founding mission, DePaul emphasizes access to education, particularly for first-generation and underserved students. By 1998, it became the largest Catholic university in North America by enrollment. Today, it enrolls around 14,500 undergraduate and 7,900 graduate and law students from diverse cultural, religious, and international backgrounds, representing over 118 countries. The university operates across two main campuses, Lincoln Park and the Loop, and is classified among “R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity.” A significant portion of students commute or live off campus, contributing to its urban character.DePaul’s athletic teams, known as the DePaul Blue Demons, compete in the Big East Conference. Its men’s basketball team has achieved notable success, including 18 NCAA tournament appearances and two Final Fours, while the softball team has consistently performed well, securing multiple conference titles. Historically, the university began as St. Vincent’s College and quickly expanded, admitting women in 1911 and becoming one of the first Catholic institutions to offer co-education. It established key academic units such as the School of Music, College of Commerce, and College of Law. Despite financial challenges during the Great Depression, DePaul continued to grow, gaining accreditation in 1926 and expanding its academic offerings. Its legacy reflects a blend of academic development, inclusivity, and commitment to service, rooted in its Vincentian heritage.