We are cutting-edge scientists, patient-focused nurses, and Golden Apple award-winning educators.
We are Regents.
Rockford University offers more than an education. RU is where you find belonging, opportunities, personal growth, and so much more.
Rockford University at a glance
1,200
13 10:1
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Your career matters. We’re here to support you on your journey toward a successful future.
Career Readiness
We help you prepare for your future. Career planning services include: creating resumes and cover letters, mock interviews, job and internship strategies, and exploring major and minor options.
Gain work experience and build your resume as a student! There are many job opportunities on-campus and off-campus in the Rockford Region.
RU hosts a region-wide Career Fair with over 50 employer booths for students to network and find internships. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet employers.
Prepare for an internship or job by fitting yourself with a new professional outfit and learning etiquette in professional settings. Your success is our goal!
Rockford University is where student athletes thrive in the classroom and in the game.
We compete at the NCAA Division III level and are a charter member of the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference. Rockford currently sponsors 13 NCAA intercollegiate teams and 2 intercollegiate club sports. On average, one-third of our students participate in at least one sport.
Fans cheer on Regents in our recently renovated Seaver Center, Sam Greeley Football Field, and brand new turf Baseball and Softball fields. All students have access to Seaver’s modern fitness center, where they can use weight training and cardio fitness equipment.
We are one of the first colleges in the area to offer a competitive Esports team, established in 2019. Regent’s Esports currently competes in 4 competitive games: Valorant, Overwatch 2, Rocket League, and Rainbow 6 Siege. Our new Esports Arena is located in the heart of the Burpee Student Center. The Arena features two dedicated streaming desktops, 16 gaming stations powered by MSI, and top tier gaming peripherals.
New! Women’s Flag Football
RU is proud to be the first university in Illinois to add Women’s Flag Football. It’s not an NCAA sport yet, but we are thrilled to be on the forefront of a sport that is growing rapidly in popularity. Women’s Flag Football is now an Olympic Sport, and will be played at the Summer 2028 Olympic Games.
International Student Opportunities
Our Community Friends program matches families in the Rockford community with international students, giving them the opportunity to have authentic cultural experiences. Experience the midwest from the eyes of those who live here. More
Community Friends Program
Situated minutes from downtown Rockford and just over an hour from multiple major cities, students have access to visit many interesting and unique attractions. Campus is always active with multicultural events: International Food and Arts Festival, Saudi National Day, and Lunar New Year, to name a few.
International Student Admission Requirements
Evidence of English language proficiency as demonstrated by one of the following:
Global Experience Study Abroad
Our culture-rich campus offers an international curriculum, diverse student body, and international partnerships with universities around the world. The Student Opportunity Fund allows for supportive funding for students to take part in unique learning opportunities.
We offer study abroad exchange programs in the U.K., Sweden, Spain, and Japan as well as short-term programs in countries such as France, Italy, and Chile.
Previous Study Abroad Trips
Ecuador 2022
Greece 2023
Dominican Republic 2024
Cuba 2024
Office of Global Affairs provides:
• Study abroad guidance for U.S. and International students
• U.S. immigration regulation guidance
• Academic advising and support for International Students
• Translation and interpretation referrals
Majors
Accounting*
Art, Studio*
• 2-Dimensional Art
• 3-Dimensional Art
• Graphic Design*
Art History*
Biochemistry
Biology*
• Biomedical Sciences
• Conservation and Wildlife
Business
Administration*
Chemistry*
Computer Science*
• Cybersecurity *
• Game Development
• Information Systems*
• Web Development*
Criminal Justice*
Data Analytics
Digital Marketing
Early Childhood
Education
Economics*
Elementary
Education
English*
Financial Economics
Healthcare
Administration
History*
Human Development*
• Child/Adolescent
Development *
• Aging Studies*
• Lifespan*
Humanities
International Studies*
Kinesiology*
• Exercise Science*
• Sport Management *
• Physical Education
Teacher
Marketing* Mathematics*
• General
• Computational
• Data Science
Middle Grades
Education
Nursing
Political Science*
• American Studies
• Constitutional Studies
• Legal Studies
• Political Ideas
*Indicates a minor can also be achieved in this program
• Politics & Culture
• War & Peace
Psychology*
Science & Mathematics
Social Science
Sociology
Spanish
Special Education*
Supply Chain
Management
Theatre Arts*
Theatre
• Acting/Directing
• Design and Production*
• Musical Theatre Performance
Theatre Management
Minors
Ancient and Medieval
Studies Bilingual
Education Coaching
Dance
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Entrepreneurship
Forensics
Gender Studies
Health
Looking for Graduate Programs? See page 13 for more information
Minors Cont.
Pk-12 Education
(Physical Education, World Language)
Latin American,
Caribbean, & Iberian Studies
Linguistics and Translation
Music
Peace & Conflict
Philosophy
Physical Education
Physics
Religious Studies
Secondary Education
Pre-professional Programs
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Law
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physician
Assistant
Pre-Veterinary
Medicine
Online Majors
See page 12 for more information.
Rockford University sits on the forefront of new majors and degree concentrations. Check out the newest majors at Rockford.
A concentration of Computer Science that allows you to dive deep into an ever important career path, keeping data and information secure.
There’s never been a better time to consider a career in Data Analytics.
Jobs are expected to grow 25% over the next decade– that’s 3x the national average!
Our Mathematics–Data Science concentration prepares you to take on complex data challenges and make data-driven decisions that drive business success. Become indispensable to your organization with a degree in Data Science.
Prepare for a career in Digital Marketing with our well-rounded education. From the fundamentals to advanced strategies, you’ll gain a deep understanding of various areas such as social media strategy, search engine optimization, email marketing, analytics, and more.
Jobs in Healthcare Administration are growing at a rate of 32%. A degree in Healthcare Administration can help you land a job that is fulfilling and one you are passionate about!
Research shows us there are six supply chain job openings for every qualified candidate! Our program has been built with expertise from a multi-billion-dollar company and you’ll learn exactly what you need to excel in this exciting field.
The Computer Science Game Development track offers a curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in the dynamic and fast-paced video game industry. This program combines the technical skills of game development with the creative aspects of game design, providing a balanced education that covers both the programming and artistic sides of game creation.
Master of Business Administration
The MBA program offers 4 in-demand concentrations: Organizational Leadership, Finance, Healthcare Administration, and Project Management.
Fit the MBA program into your busy schedule with 6 different class start dates throughout the year, and graduate in 1-2 years.
Master of Education
The M.Ed. program is designed for licensed teachers who want to enhance their career with a master’s degree and subsequent teaching endorsements.
Most teachers complete their M.Ed. program in 2 years or less.
Teaching Endorsement
Master of Arts in Teaching
Considering a career change to teaching? This program includes all the necessary coursework for initial teacher licensure, while also earning a master’s degree.
With 16 teaching tracks to choose from, you can become the teacher you aspire to be. Most students complete the program in just 2 years.
• Accounting Studies
• Human Services
• Management Studies
RU Online Majors Format Affordable Investment
• 100% Online Classes
• Asynchronous (study when it’s convenient for you!)
• Access to campus support services and facilities
• $485 per credit hour.
• Financial Aid is available to those who apply and qualify: FAFSA 001748
• Utilize your employee or military tuition benefits.
Admission Requirements
• High School Diploma or GED
• Cumulative 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Licensed teachers can pursue subsequent teaching endorsements without a master’s degree. Subsequent endorsements include: Early Childhood, Elementary, ESL, Bilingual, Reading Teacher, and Special Education LBS1.
Teachers can complete an endorsement in 1 year.
M.Ed. $540 per credit hour
MAT $540 per credit hour 2024-2025 Graduate Tuition Affordable Investment
• Financial Aid is available to those who apply and qualify: FAFSA 001748
• RU Alumni Grant (MBA)
• Non-profit Employee Grant (MBA)
• Scholarships & grants from other organizations
• Veteran tuition benefits
• Employer tuition benefits
• Payment plans available
Transfer Students
Cumulative 2.3 GPA on 4.0 scale
Minimum 12 credits earned at 100 level or higher
Worried about your GPA or test scores? Don’t be! We’re test optional, and applicants below the standard GPA requirement are considered on an individual basis.
1 2 3 All applicants are required to submit official transcripts.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Financial Aid is available to those who apply and qualify: FAFSA 001748
Horizon Grant
Tuition is reduced to just $5,000 per year for Illinois residents who are MAP and PELL eligible.
Merit Scholarships
Scholarships based on your GPA range up to $19,000.
the QR code or visit rockford.edu/apply
Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
All admitted students who visit campus are awarded a $1,000 Visit Scholarship.
Phi Theta Kappa Award
This scholarship is worth up to $16,000, and is available to transfer students are who Phi Theta Kappa members.
questions? Contact the Office of Admission admissions@rockford.edu 815-226-4050 Fill out the FAFSA at studentaid.gov Rockford University code: 001748 Official Transcript Delivery Methods Mail Rockford University Office of Admission 5050 E State Street Rockford, IL 61108 admissions@rockford.edu Email Visit Scholarship
Competitive Scholarships
Eligible applicants can participate in a scholastic competition. Winners receive scholarships ranging from 75% to 100% of tuition.
Start your application today! rockford.edu/apply
Whether you are a first-time college student, transfer student, RU Online student, or graduate student, applying to Rockford University is easy. We’re all about making the admission process as smooth as possible for you.
Monday-Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Saturday By Appointment
rockford.edu/visit