University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne

Based on the provided data, the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne has a negative ROI score (-62), indicating that graduates' median earnings ten years after entry may not sufficiently cover the median debt incurred. Prospective students should carefully consider this financial aspect.

The graduation rate at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne is 58.2%.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne has a high admission rate of 96.0%, suggesting it is not highly selective.

Ten years after entry, the median earnings for graduates of the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne are $55,362.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne has an Affordability Score of 55, which is moderate. However, the ROI score of -62 suggests that the long-term financial return may not justify the cost for many students.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne has a highly accessible admission rate of 96.0%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This suggests that the university aims to provide educational opportunities to a broad range of students. While specific GPA or standardized test score requirements are not always rigidly defined for such high acceptance rates, successful applicants typically demonstrate a solid high school academic record, including a curriculum that prepares them for college-level work. To increase your chances of admission, ensure you submit all required materials by the deadlines, which usually include an application form, high school transcripts, and potentially letters of recommendation or an essay, depending on program specifics. For students who may not meet traditional academic benchmarks, USF's open admission policy often allows for consideration of other factors, such as life experience or a demonstrated commitment to learning. It's advisable to contact the admissions office directly to understand any specific program prerequisites and to discuss your individual academic profile.

Assessing the financial worth of the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne requires a careful look at its cost versus potential earnings. With an annual tuition of $36,460 and a median 10-year earning potential of $55,362, the financial return is not immediately apparent. The median debt of $25,976 adds to the financial burden. If we consider the total cost of a four-year degree (approximately $145,840 in tuition alone), recouping this investment through the median salary would take a considerable amount of time, likely over a decade after accounting for living expenses and loan interest. The ROI score of -62 further underscores this concern. However, the value can be significantly higher for students pursuing specific, in-demand programs like nursing or allied health, where starting salaries can exceed the overall median, and regional demand is strong. For these students, the debt payoff timeline might be more favorable. If USF provides a unique educational experience or career pathway that aligns perfectly with your goals and leads to above-median earnings, it could be a worthwhile investment. Otherwise, prospective students should be cautious and thoroughly research program-specific outcomes.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne excels in programs that align with strong regional employment needs, particularly in healthcare and education. Its School of Health Sciences is highly regarded, with majors such as Nursing, Radiologic Technology, and Health Services Administration consistently producing graduates in high demand by local hospitals like Parkview Health and Lutheran Health Network. The School of Education also offers robust programs, preparing students for careers in K-12 education within Fort Wayne Community Schools and other regional districts. For those interested in business, the School of Business offers programs like Accounting and Management, which can lead to employment with local companies such as Do it Best Corp. or Steel Dynamics Inc. Students considering USF should investigate programs with clear career pathways and strong placement rates within Indiana and the surrounding Midwest. Majors that leverage the university's established relationships with regional employers are likely to offer the best career prospects and a more favorable return on investment.

Student life at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne is characterized by a close-knit, community-oriented atmosphere, typical of a smaller private institution. With an enrollment of around 1,567 students, the campus fosters a sense of belonging and encourages active participation. USF offers a range of extracurricular activities, including NCAA Division II athletics, with popular sports like basketball and football, providing opportunities for both athletes and fans. Student clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests, from academic societies and cultural groups to spiritual and service-oriented initiatives. The university emphasizes its Franciscan values, promoting a supportive and respectful environment. While Fort Wayne is not a major college town, the campus provides a hub for social interaction, with events, student government, and campus ministry activities offering avenues for engagement. For students seeking a vibrant, large-city college experience, USF might feel quieter, but for those who appreciate a more personal campus environment and strong community ties, it offers a fulfilling student life.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne provides a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of tuition, which is $36,460 for all students. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. This aid typically includes federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, and student loans. Merit-based scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement, while need-based aid is determined by a student's financial circumstances as assessed through the FAFSA. USF also offers specific scholarships tied to academic programs, athletic participation, or community involvement. While the exact percentage of students receiving aid and the average aid package are not detailed here, prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. It is also recommended to contact the USF Financial Aid Office directly to discuss personalized aid packages, explore all available scholarship opportunities, and understand the net price after aid is applied, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost.

The median earnings for graduates of the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne after 10 years is reported as $55,362. However, this figure represents an average and actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, individual performance, and the specific industry and location of employment. For instance, graduates from high-demand programs like Nursing or Radiologic Technology, particularly those who secure positions within major regional healthcare systems such as Parkview Health or Lutheran Health Network, may expect starting salaries well above this median, potentially in the $60,000-$75,000 range or higher, with career progression leading to even greater earnings. Conversely, graduates in fields with less direct regional demand or in lower-paying sectors might find their earnings closer to or even below the reported median. It is crucial for prospective students to research the specific earning potential for their intended major, looking at data for similar roles in the Fort Wayne area and beyond, to set realistic salary expectations.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne offers on-campus housing options designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for its students. The primary residential halls include Bishop Luers Hall and St. Francis Hall, which typically house undergraduate students. These dormitories are generally set up as traditional residence halls, featuring double-occupancy rooms with shared common areas, bathrooms, and lounges. The rooms are furnished with basic necessities like beds, desks, and closets. Common spaces often include study areas, recreational lounges, and laundry facilities. USF emphasizes creating a supportive community within its residence halls, often with Resident Assistants (RAs) available to assist students and foster a positive living environment. While specific amenities can vary, the focus is on providing a safe and conducive atmosphere for academic success and social development. Students seeking a more independent living situation may find off-campus housing options in the surrounding Fort Wayne area as they progress through their studies.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne, as a smaller private institution, offers research opportunities that are often more accessible and integrated into the undergraduate experience compared to large research universities. While it may not have the extensive research infrastructure of major R1 institutions, USF encourages student involvement in faculty-led research projects, particularly within its strong science and health science departments. Students in programs like Biology, Chemistry, and Health Sciences may have opportunities to assist professors with ongoing research, collect data, and even present findings at academic conferences. The university's focus on undergraduate education means that research is often geared towards providing hands-on learning experiences rather than groundbreaking, large-scale discoveries. Students interested in research should proactively engage with faculty members in their field of interest to inquire about available opportunities and potential research assistant positions. This hands-on approach can be highly beneficial for students planning to pursue graduate studies.

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne (USF) is a private, nonprofit institution in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with an enrollment of about 1,567 students and an acceptance rate of 96%. It competes with other regional private colleges and universities in Indiana and nearby states that offer similar program focuses and serve a comparable student demographic. Realistic peers include institutions like Indiana Institute of Technology (Fort Wayne), Trine University (Angola, IN), and Valparaiso University (Valparaiso, IN). USF's advantages over some peers might include its specific strengths in healthcare and education programs, which are highly relevant to the Fort Wayne job market, and potentially a lower cost of living in its immediate vicinity compared to cities where other peers are located. However, disadvantages could include a lower median graduate earning potential compared to some more established or specialized institutions, and a less prominent national brand recognition, which might affect job prospects in highly competitive, out-of-state markets. Its graduation rate of 58.2% is also lower than some competitors, which could be a point of concern for prospective students regarding program completion support.

Employers in the Northeast Indiana region generally hold a positive view of graduates from the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne, particularly in fields where USF has established strong programs and built lasting relationships with local industries. Healthcare employers, such as Parkview Health and Lutheran Health Network, frequently hire USF nursing and allied health graduates, valuing their practical training and readiness for clinical settings. Similarly, local school districts and educational institutions often recruit USF education graduates due to the university's focus on teacher preparation. For business and technology roles, companies like Do it Best Corp. and Steel Dynamics Inc. may consider USF graduates, especially those who have demonstrated strong academic performance and relevant internship experience. The university's smaller size and regional focus mean its brand recognition is strongest within Indiana and surrounding Midwestern states. While a USF degree might not carry the same national weight as one from a large, flagship university, employers who are familiar with the institution tend to respect the quality of education and the practical skills its graduates possess, especially in its core program areas.