Abysmal Graduation Rate Puts Chicago State Accrediation at Risk

By Kate Gardiner in News on Sep 25, 2009 6:20PM

The state of Illinois may want to put a hold on the magical $40 million it granted to Chicago State University last month for a new West Side campus. According to the Tribune,

"Chicago State University is at risk of losing its accreditation because of "remarkably poor" graduation and retention rates, as well as tumultuous leadership and finances, according to the region's accrediting agency.

"In a letter obtained by the Tribune, the Higher Learning Commission cites several "grave" concerns regarding the future of the South Side school that serves roughly 6,800 students. The most pressing problems derive from managing enrollment, but other issues include a reduction in student financial assistance that led to dropouts and delayed approval of budgets."

CSU's graduation rate - 12.8 percent over six years - makes the city's public high schools look downright wonderful (District-wide the CPS dropout rate is about 12 percent). In the meantime, the university - which does not have a complete board of directors and is dealing with issues concerning its new controversial president - is attempting to figure out how best to spend its grant.