University of Evansville

Based on the provided data, the University of Evansville has a negative ROI score (-70), indicating that the median earnings of graduates do not sufficiently offset the cost of attendance and debt incurred.

The University of Evansville has a graduation rate of 67.7%.

The University of Evansville has an admission rate of 77.6%, suggesting it is not highly selective.

The median earnings for University of Evansville alumni 10 years after entry are $53,770.

The University of Evansville has an affordability score of 35, which is relatively low, and a negative ROI, suggesting affordability is a concern when considering the financial outcomes.

The University of Evansville has a moderately selective admission rate of approximately 77.6%. This means that out of every 100 students who apply, about 78 are offered admission. While not highly competitive, it's not a guaranteed admission for everyone. To increase your chances, focus on presenting a strong academic profile. This includes maintaining a solid GPA, particularly in core subjects like English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered, though policies can vary, so check the latest requirements. Crafting a compelling personal essay that showcases your personality, goals, and why UE is a good fit for you is crucial. Extracurricular involvement, such as participation in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or leadership roles, demonstrates a well-rounded application. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who know you well can also significantly bolster your application. Early application, either through Early Decision or Early Action, can sometimes provide an advantage. Overall, while UE is accessible, a thoughtful and complete application is key to a successful admission.

The University of Evansville's value proposition is nuanced. With an annual tuition of $44,172 and a median 10-year earning potential of $53,770, the immediate financial return appears modest. The median student debt of $24,606 adds to this consideration. If a graduate earns the median salary and allocates 15% of their income to debt repayment, it could take around 4-5 years to clear the debt, assuming no interest. This timeline is longer than for some institutions with higher earning potentials. However, UE's value isn't solely measured in immediate dollars. Its private, nonprofit status often translates to smaller class sizes, more personalized faculty attention, and robust internship opportunities, particularly in fields like nursing, engineering, and business. These experiences can lead to strong career placement and salary growth beyond the median. For students who are proactive in utilizing career services, securing high-value internships, and choosing majors with strong market demand, UE can be a worthwhile investment. For those prioritizing a purely financial ROI above all else, or who might not fully engage with the university's resources, the cost might seem high relative to the median outcomes. It's a good investment for the engaged student, but requires strategic planning.

The University of Evansville offers several strong majors that align well with regional employment needs and demonstrate strong graduate outcomes. The College of Engineering and Computer Science is highly regarded, with programs like Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering often leading to solid career placements in manufacturing and technology sectors. The College of Health Sciences is another standout, particularly its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which consistently places graduates in high-demand healthcare roles within Evansville's robust medical community and beyond. Programs within the School of Business, such as Finance and Marketing, also provide a good foundation for careers in regional banking and corporate environments. For students interested in the arts and humanities, the Theatre program is nationally recognized and offers excellent networking opportunities. The key to identifying the 'best' major is to align personal interests with fields that have strong job prospects and where UE has a reputation for quality instruction and practical experience, often facilitated by its internship programs.

Student life at the University of Evansville is characterized by a close-knit, campus-centric community typical of a small private university. With an enrollment of around 1,500 students, UE fosters an environment where students can easily connect with peers and faculty. The campus is located within the city of Evansville, offering students access to urban amenities while maintaining a distinct campus feel. Social life often revolves around campus events, clubs, and organizations. UE boasts over 100 student organizations, covering a wide range of interests from academic clubs and cultural groups to intramural sports and volunteer initiatives. The university has a strong emphasis on community service and leadership development. While not a major party school, there are opportunities for social gatherings, concerts, and sporting events, particularly its NCAA Division I athletics. The smaller size encourages participation and makes it easier for students to find their niche and build lasting relationships. The proximity to Evansville's downtown area also provides off-campus entertainment and dining options.

The University of Evansville provides a significant amount of financial aid to its students, reflecting its commitment to making education accessible. A high percentage of students, typically around 98-99%, receive some form of financial assistance. This aid comes in various forms, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, federal loans, and work-study programs. Merit scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement (GPA, test scores) at the time of admission, and can range from partial tuition waivers to substantial awards. Need-based aid is determined by the student's and family's financial circumstances, assessed through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and sometimes the CSS Profile. Federal aid includes Pell Grants for low-income students and federal student loans. UE also offers specific scholarships tied to particular programs or demographics. While the sticker price for tuition is high ($44,172), the average net price after grants and scholarships is considerably lower, making it more affordable for many students. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA early and explore all scholarship opportunities offered by the university and external sources.

The salary expectations for University of Evansville graduates vary significantly by major and career path. The university reports a median 10-year earning potential of $53,770. However, this is an aggregate figure and doesn't reflect the earning potential of specific programs. Graduates from high-demand fields often see higher starting salaries. For instance, those completing the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program are typically well-positioned for competitive salaries in the healthcare sector, often starting in the $60,000-$70,000 range in the Evansville area, with potential for growth into specialized roles or management. Engineering graduates, particularly in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, can expect starting salaries in the $60,000-$75,000 range, depending on the employer and specific role. Business graduates' salaries can range more widely, from the mid-$40,000s to $60,000+, depending on specialization (e.g., finance roles often pay more than general marketing). Alumni in theatre or arts programs might have more variable income initially, often supplemented by freelance or project-based work. It's crucial for students to research specific salary data for their intended major and to actively pursue internships that can lead to higher-paying job offers.

The University of Evansville offers a range of on-campus housing options designed to accommodate its student population, primarily first-year students. The university emphasizes a residential experience, with most freshmen required to live on campus. Housing options include traditional residence halls, suite-style living, and apartment-style units. Traditional halls like Hughes Hall and Krannert Hall typically house students in double-occupancy rooms with shared common bathrooms on each floor. These halls often have communal lounges and study areas. For students seeking slightly more independence or a different living arrangement, suite-style options are available, where a small group of rooms share a common living area and bathroom. Apartment-style living, often available for upperclassmen, provides more privacy with individual bedrooms and shared kitchens and living spaces. All residence halls are furnished and include basic utilities, internet access, and laundry facilities. The university places a strong emphasis on safety, with resident assistants (RAs) available in each hall to provide support and enforce community standards. The overall atmosphere is geared towards fostering community and providing a convenient living and learning environment.

The University of Evansville provides undergraduate research opportunities, particularly within its STEM fields and some humanities disciplines. While not a large research university with extensive graduate programs, UE encourages faculty-mentored research projects, allowing undergraduate students to gain valuable experience. Students in programs like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering often have opportunities to work alongside professors on specific research initiatives. This can involve assisting with experiments, data analysis, literature reviews, and even presenting findings at academic conferences. The university supports these endeavors through various channels, including summer research programs and grants that can provide stipends or funding for research materials. For students interested in pursuing graduate studies, particularly PhD programs, engaging in undergraduate research at UE can be a significant advantage, demonstrating their capacity for advanced academic work. While the scale of research might be smaller than at larger institutions, the personalized, faculty-driven nature of research at UE offers a unique and impactful learning experience for motivated undergraduates.

The University of Evansville (UE) is often compared to other private, liberal arts-focused universities in the Midwest. Realistic peers include institutions like Butler University, DePauw University, and perhaps regional comprehensive universities with strong private identities. Compared to Butler and DePauw, UE generally has a lower sticker price for tuition, though net prices after aid can vary significantly. UE's location in Evansville offers a different regional job market focus than Indianapolis-based Butler or Greencastle-based DePauw, potentially providing stronger local internship and job pipelines within Southwestern Indiana. However, Butler and DePauw often boast larger alumni networks and higher national visibility, which can translate to broader career opportunities. UE's admission rate is slightly higher than DePauw's, suggesting it may be marginally less selective. In terms of program strengths, UE's nursing and engineering programs are often highlighted, potentially offering more specialized technical training than some broader liberal arts programs at its peers. Overall, UE offers a comparable private university experience but with a distinct regional focus and potentially a more accessible entry point than some of its more selective peers.

Employers generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of Evansville, particularly within the Midwest and in specific fields where UE has established strengths. Local and regional employers in Evansville and the surrounding tri-state area have a strong familiarity with UE graduates and often actively recruit from the campus. They value the practical experience gained through UE's emphasis on internships and co-op programs. Fields like nursing, physical therapy, engineering, and business are areas where UE alumni are well-represented and respected. Employers often note that UE graduates are well-prepared, possess strong work ethics, and are adaptable. For programs with national recognition, such as its Theatre program, the reputation extends further. While UE may not have the same level of widespread brand recognition as larger, more prominent universities nationally, its reputation among employers in its core geographic and programmatic areas is solid. The university's career services actively work to build and maintain relationships with employers, ensuring that graduates are visible and considered for relevant job opportunities.