Governors State University (GSU) Academics and Unique Programs

Academics

Founded in 1969, Governors State University (GSU) is the only public university in Chicago’s south suburban area. GSU is an upper-division university that offers undergraduate courses at the junior and senior levels, which makes it a popular choice for students who have transferred from community colleges. The university also offers master’s and doctoral degree programs. The school is divided into four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, the College of Business and Public Administration, and the College of Health and Human Services.

Students can choose from many bachelor’s, graduate, and doctoral degree programs. The university also offers over 20 certificate programs. The most popular majors include: Business Administration and Management; Liberal Arts and Sciences; Criminal Justice; Elementary Education and Teaching; and Psychology.

All of the university’s programs have earned appropriate professional accreditation (if such accreditation exists), and are recognized by their respective professions. The university itself is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Eighty-five percent of the faculty members at this school hold a Ph.D. or the highest degree in their discipline, and most of the classes have fewer than 30 students.

The university also offers flexible class schedules with evening, weekends, online, and media courses.The online program is flexible and affordable. The online learning program is also fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools

Most Popular Fields of Study

Information Summary

Ranks 57th in Illinois and 1554th overall. See the entire top 2,000 colleges and universities list
Overall Score (about)	72.1
Total Cost On-Campus Attendance	$25,092
Admission Success rate	N/A
ACT / SAT 75%ile scores	20 / 1045
Student Ratio Students-to-Faculty	11 : 1
Retention (full-time / part-time)	53% / N/A
Enrollment Total (all students)	4,857

Unique Programs

The Students in Service program is a part-time program offered in conjunction with AmeriCorps. The program is designed to encourage students to enroll as part-time AmeriCorps members and do meaningful community service work. SIS members make a difference in their communities, gain civic and workforce skills and earn an education award after completing their service.

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Admissions

Students who wish to apply must first complete an online or print application form. Undergraduate applications can be evaluated for admission once an official transcript demonstrating that the student has earned, or will soon earn, 60 semester hours of college level courses is submitted. Each applicant must also submit an official college transcript and any AP or other credit transcripts (where applicable). Certain programs also have additional requirements. Prospective students should contact the school for specific dates. It typically takes about two weeks to process and evaluate applications once a complete file has been received. There is a nonrefundable application fee.

Adult students, non-degree seeking students, transfer students, home-schooled students, and international students may need to use different procedures, so they should refer to the university’s website or contact the Office of Admission for more information about the admissions process and application requirements.

Financial Aid

Governors State offers the most affordable undergraduate tuition rate in the Chicago area. The majority of the students receive some form of state, federal, private or institutional financial assistance. Forms of aid that are available for students include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. The college also offers a limited number of scholarships and grants for students. Some are based on merit; others require applicants to demonstrate evidence of financial need. All students who wish to be considered for financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA should be submitted as soon as possible after January 1st each year. The priority deadline date for completing the FAFSA application is by early April. If selected for verification, students will also need to complete a Federal Verification Worksheet and/or submit additional documents.

Students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office for more information and assistance with completing the financial aid application process. Students should also note that financial aid applications must be renewed each year.

Student Financial Aid Details

Ranks 1009th for the average student loan amount.
Secrets to getting the best scholarships and financial aid in Illinois.

Students

GSU has a diverse student body. There are plenty of academic and social support services to help students make the transition to college. There are also numerous diverse clubs, organizations, and activities that include academic, professional, political, social, talent, athletic, student government, media, religious, service, multicultural, special interest, and honor groups. Popular organizations include the Alpha Eta honor society, the Art Forum, the Association of Latin American Students, the Black Student Union, the Communicators Network, the Human Resource Management Club, the Japanese Philosophy Art and Culture Club, the Presidents Club Council, and the Computer Science Club.

Some popular special events that are held at the university include Alcohol Awareness Week, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, Family Day, Lunch and Learn, Welcome Days, Salute to Grads, and the Governors State University Graduate Celebration with the Picnic by the Lake and Luau.

While the university does not offer on campus housing facilities, the university does provide students with housing information that should help students find affordable housing near the university. The Title V Cooperative Grant Latino Center for Excellence provides support services for Hispanic students. The Family Development Center (FDC) provides child care and support services for families. Academic Computing Services (ACS) provides computer facilities and support to the university’s students, faculty, and staff. Students have wide access to PCs and MACs with diverse software applications, scanners, and printers.

Student Enrollment Demographics

Athletics

Students can participate in a number of intramural sports. All students are encouraged to participate. Available athletic programs include men’s and women’s intramural basketball, handball, racquetball, soccer softball, table tennis, and women’s intramural volleyball.

Alumni

Alumni of GSU include:

Debbie Halvorson, former Senator from Illinois and member of the US House of Representatives
Melody A. O’Neal, founder, president and CEO of Melmedica Children’s Healthcare Inc.
Brian Middleton, popular Chicago radio DJ

Governors State University