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Welcome to
Elmhurst University
Here, you’ll find a welcoming community, a top liberal arts university experience and boundless opportunities.
Get your application started online today. It’s secure and easy!
Study What
You Love
Get ready for an outstanding education at the intersection of the liberal arts and professional life.
Undergraduate Programs
Learn in small classes taught by faculty who believe in you. From business and nursing to jazz studies and studio art, our 70-plus majors open the doors to opportunity.
Graduate Programs
Our graduate programs are practical, flexible and tailored to meet the needs of employers. Choose from options in health care, business, education and technology.
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Elmhurst’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares you to manage complexity and lead change in health care.
Degree Completion Programs
Complete your bachelor’s degree in evening classes or online. Designed for working adults, our degree completion programs put you on the fast track to success.
Certificate Programs
Gain an edge in the job market with a certificate in fields like data science, nursing and cybersecurity. Our graduate and undergraduate certificate programs are designed for working professionals.
Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy
Designed for young adults with differing abilities, ELSA offers a four-year academic experience with a focus on strategies for independent living.
Welcome to Your New Home
Get involved, make lifelong friends and explore what matters to you. Our community will embrace and support you.
Upcoming Events
‘Town vs. Gown’ Vintage Baseball Game
Sunday, August 30 at 2:00 p.m.
Jazz Faculty Concert
Thursday, September 3 at 11:40 a.m.
Meet the Pros: Music Business
Thursday, September 10 at 11:30 a.m.
Student Profiles
Elmhurst students have the drive to Go Far and receive the knowledge to Do Well. Read their stories.
Home Away from Home
For Ryan Gatto ’28, leaving his hometown of Houston, Texas, to attend college more than 1,000 miles away felt like a leap of faith. But after connecting with the men’s lacrosse coaching staff and visiting campus with his parents, he had a feeling that Elmhurst University would be a good fit for his interests and aspirations.
Finding Direction
James Stiso ’26 didn’t arrive at Elmhurst University with a clear vision of his future career—but he discovered one by trying things, taking risks and leaning into opportunities.
A Heart for Service
At Elmhurst University, Jackelyn Lopez Barrera ’26 has found purpose, community and a path forward. A nursing major and U.S. Army veteran, Lopez Barrera brings discipline, resilience and a deep-rooted passion for caring for others into every classroom, clinical and campus experience.
Hitting All the Right Notes
When Aldre Delos Santos ’28 first visited Elmhurst University as a Mundelein High School student participating in the University’s celebrated Jazz Festival, he was struck by something he couldn’t quite name. It wasn’t just the music—it was the level of craft and intentionality behind it. “Just being able to see the high level of musicianship of the Jazz Band was very inspiring—and that’s one of the main reasons I chose Elmhurst,” he says.
A New Chapter
When Victoria Calderon ’28 first visited Elmhurst University, she wasn’t planning to enroll just yet. A surprise campus visit with her mom during her senior year of high school introduced her to a place that felt welcoming—but smaller than she expected. After she started her college journey at Morton College in Cicero, however, Elmhurst remained on her radar.
Elmhurst Insights
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Elmhurst University has given me a strong academic foundation. As a marketing major, my professors are supportive, approachable and bring real-world insight into the classroom. Balancing school with my role in marketing has strengthened my confidence and time management while preparing me for my future career. I’ve also felt a genuine sense of community and encouragement that makes Elmhurst feel like home. I’m proud to be part of the Elmhurst community.
Kaylee Kucmierz ’26 – Marketing
As an ELSA student, I’m really glad I came to Elmhurst University. I like being involved with the sports community. I am a student manager for the basketball and football teams. Everyone has been very friendly to me. It’s been a really positive experience! I like all my classes; the professors are all really nice and it’s been enjoyable. I like engaging with all the different clubs and activities on campus and making new friends.
Kevin Pflderer ’27 – ELSA
As a first-generation student, I did not know what to expect coming to college. But throughout these last four years, Elmhurst has become my home away from home. The community here is so welcoming, and I have grown so much through the friendships and connections I have made. I am not scared of life after graduation because the professors and coursework have prepared me for the real world. I will always be proud to call myself a Bluejay!
Ella León ’26 – Theatre Arts Education
Elmhurst has given me so many opportunities to grow both academically and personally. Through clubs and campus organizations, I’ve been able to take on leadership roles, connect with amazing people and become more involved in the community around me. What makes Elmhurst truly special to me is the close-knit environment; the professors genuinely care about their students, and the friendships and connections I’ve built here have made campus feel like a place where I truly belong.
Husna Zakria ’27 – Biology
I love the creative freedom of Elmhurst, everyone is willing to collaborate with anyone, it’s the best place to explore my creativity and I have the best opportunities to get inspired for the next chapter of my life.
Mateo Mesa ’26 – Music Theory and Composition
Elmhurst has been a defining space in my journey. It is where I have been challenged, refined and shaped into a stronger version of myself. The opportunities this institution provides have opened doors for me to grow and develop into someone who can make a real impact. Being a change agent here is not just a title. It is a responsibility to impact every space I enter with purpose and integrity. I have learned it is not about how you start, but the discipline, resilience and growth you show in how you finish.
Davionne Jakes ’27 – Digital Media
From my very first interaction on campus, I knew Elmhurst was different. With the guidance of my admissions counselor, I got involved right away and those early steps opened doors I did not expect. Elmhurst has given me the confidence to strengthen my leadership, form meaningful friendships, and continue finding my voice. I’m excited to keep growing and see what else I get to experience here!
Lizzeth Alvarez ’29 – Education