US News & World Report, Chicago Magazine and Niche recognitions highlight DUAA’s impact in helping Chicago students get a head start in college

DeVry University Advantage Academy (DUAA) has earned three top distinctions from U.S. News & World Report, Chicago Magazine and Niche, underscoring the academy’s academic excellence and student success among high schools in Chicago and Illinois. The recognitions mark another milestone year for DUAA, as its students continue to demonstrate what is possible through early access to college-level education.

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At Advantage Academy, high school students are immersed in a professional learning environment where they develop skills through challenging, engaging and relevant educational experiences.

“These recognitions speak to the quality of a DeVry University Advantage Academy education and the achievements of the learners in the program,” said Elise Awwad, president and CEO of DeVry University. “For more than 20 years, DUAA has given students in Chicago Public Schools the opportunity to earn an associate degree at no cost while completing high school. That combination of academic excellence and educational access reflects the best of DeVry’s mission, opening doors to college and giving these students a head start on their future.”

• U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools: DUAA ranked No. 9 among Chicago Public Schools in the 2026-27 Best High Schools rankings, continuing its recognition among the city’s top public high schools.
• Chicago Magazine Best Chicago Public High Schools: DUAA ranked No. 11 among the city's public high schools for 2024-25, adding another local recognition for the academy and its students.
• 2027 Niche Best Schools: DUAA ranked No. 12 among Niche’s 2027 Standout High Schools in Illinois, a leading platform connecting students and families with colleges and schools.

Founded in 2004, DeVry University Advantage Academy is a dual-enrollment program for qualified 11^th and 12^th grade students that is offered at no cost and that welcomes students from 48 high schools across the Chicago Public School system. Advantage Academy students earn their high school diplomas and associate degrees at the same time.

At Advantage Academy, high school students are immersed in a professional learning environment where they develop skills through challenging, engaging and relevant educational experiences. They cultivate strong learning habits that shape their college experience, gaining an early advantage by allowing them to earn an associate degree and to develop essential academic skills while still in high school.

DUAA Chicago boasts a 100% graduation rate, with 90% of students continuing their education at a four-year college or university.

“Programs like DUAA do more than accelerate education; they help students see what is possible for themselves,” said Brian Niro, assistant dean of teaching and learning at DeVry University. “Our students are taking on challenging college-level work while still in high school and building the skills and confidence to take their next step. These rankings celebrate their accomplishments as well as the educators who support and believe in them every day.”

The recognitions build on more than two decades of collaboration with Chicago Public Schools to expand access to early college opportunities and help students transition into postsecondary education prepared for success.

For more information, visit DeVry University Advantage Academy

About DeVry University

DeVry University strives to close society’s opportunity gap and address emerging talent needs by preparing learners to thrive in careers shaped by continuous technological change. Founded in 1931, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs onsite and online in Business, Healthcare and Technology. DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC, www.hlcommission.org/). The university’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation. To learn more, visit devry.edu

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