Saint Francis University

The reported ROI score of -65 suggests that, on average, graduates may not recoup their investment in terms of increased earnings compared to their debt and tuition costs within a typical timeframe.

The median earnings 10 years after entry are $62,101, which provides a benchmark for potential post-graduation income.

With an admission rate of 76.8%, Saint Francis University is not highly selective, indicating it is accessible to a wide range of academic profiles.

As a small institution with 1,557 students, Saint Francis University likely offers a close-knit campus environment.

Prospective students should carefully consider the high tuition ($44,000) against the median earnings and ROI score to determine if the value proposition is suitable for their individual circumstances.

Saint Francis University has an acceptance rate of approximately 76.8%, classifying it as a moderately selective institution. This means that while admission is not guaranteed, a significant portion of applicants are typically accepted. To increase your chances of admission, 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 it's advisable to check the most current requirements. Crafting a compelling personal essay that highlights your unique experiences, goals, and reasons for choosing Saint Francis University can also make a difference. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who can speak to your academic abilities and character are beneficial. Engaging in extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership, commitment, and diverse interests can further strengthen your application. The university values well-rounded individuals who will contribute to its campus community.

Evaluating the financial worth of Saint Francis University requires a close look at its cost versus potential return. With tuition at $44,000 annually, the total cost for a four-year degree can approach $176,000 before room, board, and other fees. The median 10-year earnings for graduates are reported at $62,101, which is a respectable income but may not provide a rapid return on such a substantial investment. The median debt of $27,000 is a moderate figure, but when combined with the high tuition, it contributes to a negative ROI score of -65. This suggests that, on average, graduates may take a considerable amount of time to recoup their educational expenses. The payoff timeline for the $27,000 debt, assuming a significant portion of the $62,101 salary is allocated to repayment, could be around 5-7 years, not including interest. While SFU offers a strong sense of community and specific program strengths, particularly in health sciences, prospective students must weigh this against the financial implications. It is crucial to explore all available financial aid, scholarships, and grants. For students who can secure significant aid or are entering high-earning professions directly from SFU, the value proposition improves. However, based on general financial metrics, it appears to be an expensive option with a potentially slow financial return.

Saint Francis University is particularly recognized for its strong programs in the health sciences, making majors within this area often the most recommended. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is highly regarded, preparing graduates for a robust job market in healthcare. Similarly, the Physician Assistant (PA) program is a flagship offering, consistently placing graduates into competitive roles. Other strong health-related majors include Health Sciences, Pre-Physical Therapy, and Pre-Occupational Therapy, which serve as excellent foundations for graduate studies in these fields. Beyond health sciences, the School of Business offers solid programs in Accounting and Management, which can lead to stable career paths in regional businesses and firms. The Education department also places graduates effectively within local and state school districts. For students interested in a more traditional liberal arts education, majors like English and Psychology provide a broad foundation, though career outcomes may be more varied and often require further graduate study or specialized training. Ultimately, the 'best' major depends on individual career aspirations, but programs with direct career pathways and strong graduate placement, like nursing and physician assistant studies, stand out.

Student life at Saint Francis University is characterized by its close-knit community atmosphere, deeply influenced by its Franciscan values. As a smaller university, SFU fosters a sense of belonging and encourages active participation in campus activities. The university offers a variety of student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, intramural sports, and service-oriented groups that align with its Franciscan heritage. Campus Ministry plays a significant role, offering opportunities for spiritual growth and community service. Traditional events like homecoming, holiday celebrations, and spring festivals are key social highlights. Given its location in Loretto, PA, outdoor activities in the surrounding Laurel Highlands are popular among students. While the social scene is not as extensive or diverse as at a large urban university, it is vibrant within its community. Students often find entertainment through campus-organized events, local venues, and by forming strong bonds with peers. The emphasis is on a supportive, engaged, and values-driven student experience, where personal development and community involvement are highly encouraged.

Saint Francis University is committed to making education accessible and offers a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of attendance. For the 2023-2024 academic year, a significant percentage of full-time undergraduate students received financial aid. Approximately 99% of students received some form of aid, with about 97% receiving grant or scholarship aid. The average financial aid package for first-time, full-time students was around $27,000, which included institutional aid, federal grants, and state grants. Federal student loans are also a significant component for many students. The university offers various scholarships, including academic scholarships, athletic scholarships, and specific departmental scholarships, which are often merit-based. It is crucial for prospective students to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and any additional institutional aid applications by the specified deadlines. SFU also participates in federal and state aid programs. While the average aid package is substantial, it's important for families to understand that the remaining balance after aid can still be significant, necessitating careful budgeting and potentially private loans or payment plans.

The expected salary for graduates of Saint Francis University varies significantly by major and career path. The overall median earnings for alumni 10 years after graduation are reported at $62,101. However, this figure is an average and does not reflect the earning potential of specific programs. Graduates from the highly-regarded health science programs, such as Nursing and Physician Assistant studies, tend to command higher starting salaries and experience faster salary growth. For instance, entry-level registered nurses in Pennsylvania might expect starting salaries in the $55,000-$70,000 range, with significant potential for increase with experience and specialization. Physician Assistants often start in the $80,000-$100,000 range, depending on specialty and location. Graduates from the School of Business, particularly in Accounting, can expect starting salaries in the $50,000-$65,000 range, with opportunities for advancement into higher-paying roles in public accounting or corporate finance. Majors in the liberal arts or education may have lower starting salaries, often in the $40,000-$55,000 range, with salary growth dependent on further education or career progression. It is essential for prospective students to research the specific earning potential associated with their intended major and to consider the impact of location and further graduate studies on their long-term salary expectations.

Saint Francis University provides a range of on-campus housing options designed to support student life and academic success. First-year students are typically required to live on campus, fostering a strong sense of community from the outset. The university offers traditional residence halls, which provide standard dormitory-style living with shared rooms and common bathrooms. These halls are often organized by class year or gender. For upperclassmen, there are also suite-style options and apartment-style living available, offering more independence and amenities such as private bathrooms and common living areas within the suite. Specific residence halls include Schwab Hall, which often houses first-year students, and Maria Hall, another popular choice for underclassmen. Apartment-style living is available in areas like the Padua Apartments. All residence halls are equipped with basic furnishings, and students have access to common areas for studying and socializing. The university provides residential life staff (Resident Assistants) in each hall to offer support, organize activities, and ensure a safe living environment. Campus safety is a priority, with security measures in place throughout the residential areas.

Saint Francis University offers undergraduate research opportunities, particularly within its strong science and health science departments. While it may not have the extensive research infrastructure of a large R1 university, SFU provides a valuable environment for students to engage in meaningful research under faculty guidance. Students in programs like Biology, Chemistry, Health Sciences, and Pre-Med often have opportunities to participate in faculty-led research projects. These projects can range from laboratory-based investigations to clinical research or community health studies. The smaller class sizes and faculty-student ratio facilitate closer mentorship, allowing undergraduates to take on more significant roles in research than might be possible at larger institutions. The university encourages students to present their findings at local, regional, and sometimes national conferences. While SFU's primary focus is on undergraduate education and preparing students for professional practice or graduate school, the research opportunities available are designed to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and provide a competitive edge for graduate school applications or entry into research-oriented careers.

Saint Francis University (SFU) can be compared to other private, smaller liberal arts and comprehensive universities in Pennsylvania, such as Gannon University, Seton Hill University, Carlow University, and King's College. These institutions often share a similar mission focused on personalized education and community values. SFU's key advantage lies in its particularly strong and well-established health science programs, especially Physician Assistant and Nursing, which often have higher placement rates and stronger regional recognition than comparable programs at some peer institutions. Its rural location in Loretto offers a distinct, close-knit campus environment and a lower cost of living compared to schools located in more urban settings. However, SFU faces disadvantages in terms of broader geographic reach for alumni employment; graduates from peer institutions in larger cities like Pittsburgh or Wilkes-Barre might have more immediate access to a wider range of industries and employers. SFU also has a smaller overall student body and potentially fewer academic programs and extracurricular offerings compared to some of its larger peer universities. While tuition costs are often comparable among these private institutions, the ROI can differ significantly based on program strength and graduate earnings, where SFU shows mixed results.

Employers who recruit from Saint Francis University generally hold a positive view of its graduates, particularly those from its well-regarded programs. The university's emphasis on Franciscan values, which translate into a strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment, is often noted by employers. Graduates from the health sciences, such as nursing and physician assistant programs, are highly sought after by regional healthcare systems like UPMC and Conemaugh Health System, indicating strong employer confidence in the quality of training. Similarly, accounting firms and businesses in central Pennsylvania often value SFU business graduates for their practical skills and preparedness. The smaller size of the university allows for more personalized career services support, which can help in matching students with suitable internship and job opportunities. While SFU may not have the widespread name recognition of larger, more prominent universities, its reputation within Pennsylvania, especially in healthcare and business sectors, is solid. Employers appreciate the well-rounded education and the practical skills SFU graduates bring to the workforce, often finding them to be dedicated and capable employees.