Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

Madison, NJ 07940 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 75/100 | ROI Score: -62 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $38,004 | Out-of-State: $38,004

Acceptance Rate: 95.2% | Graduation Rate: 69.7% | Retention Rate: 78.2%

Median Earnings (10yr): $57,273 | Median Debt: $25,000

Student Body Size: 1,990 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 36.4% | Federal Loan Rate: 54.6%

Average Faculty Salary: $9,429/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus is $38,004 per year, which is 4% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $38,004/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $152,016 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus:

Families earning $0–$30,000: $12,624/year
Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $14,383/year
Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $21,154/year
Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $29,052/year
Families earning $110,000+: $34,331/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $25,380/year, paying just 33% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus has an acceptance rate of 95.2%, placing it in the Open Admission (85%+) category. This means roughly 523 students apply each year.

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus accepts the majority of applicants, making it an accessible option for students across a range of academic backgrounds.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

69.7% of students at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus complete their degree, 12% above the national average. This is a solid graduation rate.

First-year retention rate: 78.2% (3% below the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus earn a median salary of $57,273 ten years after enrollment, 40% above the national average. This represents a $22,273/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $668,190 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $25,000, 16% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $271/month, with a total repayment of $32,520 (including $7,520 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.44x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus pays for itself in approximately 7 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

36.4% of students at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 10% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.

54.6% of students take federal loans, 16% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $9,429/month, 8% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus enrolls 1,990 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 69/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 47%, Hispanic 27%, Black 12%, Asian 5%.

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus: Strong Academic Performance and Affordability

FDU-Florham: Bridging the Gap Between Campus Life and a Thriving Career in the Northeast
Is Your FDU-Florham Degree Worth the Investment? Analyzing Post-Graduation Success
Beyond the Classroom: Experiencing College Life and Launching Your Career at FDU-Florham

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

Academics: D+
Value: F
Outcomes: B
Affordability: C+

College Analysis

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus is a Private Nonprofit institution in Madison, NJ with approximately 1,990 students. Academics: Strong graduation rate of 69.72% with a median earning of $57,273 after 10 years. Value: Affordable tuition for in-state and out-of-state students, but high median debt of $25,000. Outcomes: Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are above the national average for similar institutions.

The Verdict: Is Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus Worth It?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $38,004 and a median 10-year earnings of $57,273, the immediate return on investment appears modest, especially when considering the median debt of $25,000. The ROI score of -62 further underscores this concern, suggesting that, on average, graduates take a considerable amount of time to recoup their educational investment. The earnings are not significantly higher than the national average for college graduates, and the cost of attendance is substantial. While the median debt is manageable, the earnings ceiling might not justify the sticker price for all programs. However, the value can be significantly enhanced by strong career services, internship opportunities in the lucrative New Jersey/NYC corridor, and the potential for higher earnings in specific, high-demand fields not fully captured by the median. For students who can secure substantial financial aid or scholarships, or who are targeting careers with higher earning potential, FDU-Florham could be a reasonable choice. For others, the cost may outweigh the immediate financial benefits, making it a potentially overpriced option without significant aid. A clear recommendation is difficult without knowing individual financial aid packages and career aspirations, but prospective students should carefully weigh the cost against potential earnings and explore all scholarship opportunities.

Return on Investment

While the degree is worth the cost given the strong career outcomes, the high median debt is a concern.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus: $25,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $284/month. Total repaid: $34,080 ($9,080 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.9 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $34,080.

Strengths

Strong focus on career readiness and alumni support.
Affordable tuition for in-state and out-of-state students.

Weaknesses

Higher median debt compared to some peer institutions.
Limited specialized programs.

Academic Profile

Retention Rate: 78.2%.

The Florham Campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a robust academic experience, particularly strong in its business, sciences, and arts programs. The Silberman College of Business is a flagship, known for its practical, career-focused approach and strong internship placements, often leveraging the proximity to New York City's financial hub. The School of Natural Sciences offers programs like Biology and Chemistry with opportunities for undergraduate research, a key differentiator for students looking to gain hands-on experience. The Becton College of Arts and Sciences provides a broad liberal arts foundation, with popular majors including Psychology, English, and Political Science. Given the private, non-profit nature and a student body of under 2,000, the student-faculty ratio is likely favorable, fostering closer relationships with professors. While specific faculty salary data isn't provided, the emphasis on undergraduate teaching and mentorship is a hallmark of such institutions. The Honors Program offers enriched academic experiences, smaller class sizes, and dedicated advising for high-achieving students. FDU's commitment to global education is evident through its study abroad programs, allowing students to gain international perspectives. Academic support is readily available through tutoring services, writing centers, and academic advising, ensuring students have the resources to succeed.

Financial Aid Guide for Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

Pell Grant recipients: 36.4%. Students taking federal loans: 54.6%.

Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus offers a comprehensive financial aid program designed to make its private education accessible. Merit-based scholarships are a significant component, awarded automatically based on academic achievement (GPA and, when considered, test scores). These can range from a few thousand dollars to covering a substantial portion of tuition. Need-based aid, determined by the FAFSA and CSS Profile, is also crucial. Many students receive a combination of federal grants (like Pell Grants, if eligible), state grants, and FDU institutional grants. Work-study opportunities are available, providing students with on-campus jobs to help fund their education. Typical aid packages for students from middle-income families might include $15,000-$25,000 in grants and scholarships, with the remaining balance covered by federal loans and potentially family contributions. For lower-income students, the grant and scholarship portion could be significantly higher, potentially covering up to 80-90% of tuition. Scholarship tips include applying early, highlighting extracurricular achievements and leadership roles in essays, and seeking external scholarships. Negotiating aid at FDU is possible, especially if you have competing offers from similar institutions, but it's most effective when you can demonstrate a clear financial need or a strong academic profile that might have been undervalued.

Hidden Costs at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

Room and board costs can add an estimated $15,000 - $18,000 per academic year.
A comprehensive meal plan is mandatory for most residential students, typically costing between $4,000 - $5,500 annually.
Textbooks and course materials can easily amount to $1,000 - $1,500 per year.
Mandatory student fees, covering services and activities, often total around $1,500 - $2,000 annually.
Transportation costs, especially for students commuting or traveling home, can range from $500 - $2,000+ depending on distance and frequency.
Parking permits for students living on or commuting to campus can cost $200 - $500 per year.
Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can add $2,000 - $4,000 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus graduates enter a diverse job market, with many finding opportunities within the bustling economic landscape of New Jersey and the greater New York metropolitan area. While specific major employer recruitment data for the Florham campus alone is not publicly detailed, FDU as a whole sees alumni placed in sectors like finance, healthcare, technology, and education. Major companies that have historically hired FDU graduates include Prudential Financial, ADP, EY (Ernst & Young), and Hackensack Meridian Health. The industries where alumni cluster often reflect the strengths of the region, with significant representation in pharmaceuticals (given NJ's strong presence in this sector), financial services, and healthcare administration. Graduate school placement rates are generally solid, with students pursuing advanced degrees in law, business, and specialized health sciences. Notable alumni include figures like former NFL player and coach Joe Theismann and various business leaders. FDU's career services are generally well-regarded, offering resume workshops, interview preparation, and career fairs. The Florham campus, with its proximity to corporate centers, facilitates internship pipelines. Students often leverage these internships with companies in the surrounding areas, such as those in Morristown, Parsippany, and even venturing into New York City. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong tendency for graduates to remain within the Northeast corridor, particularly in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, though opportunities exist nationwide.

Campus Life & Culture at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

The student body at FDU's Florham Campus is diverse, drawing students from across New Jersey, the broader tri-state area, and internationally, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. Students who thrive here are often engaged, seeking a balance between academic pursuits and a vibrant social life, and appreciate a supportive community environment.

Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus in Madison, NJ, offers a vibrant campus life set against the backdrop of a historic estate. The 'vibe' here is often described as engaged and community-oriented, with students appreciating the blend of academic rigor and social opportunities. The campus itself is a major draw, featuring beautiful gardens, historic buildings like the Mansion, and modern facilities, creating a picturesque environment for daily life. Student organizations are plentiful, covering a wide range of interests from academic clubs and cultural groups to service organizations and gaming communities. The Student Government Association plays a significant role in campus life, advocating for student needs and funding many campus events. Social life often revolves around campus-organized activities, weekend events, and student club gatherings. While Greek life exists, it's not the dominant force on campus, allowing for a more diverse social scene. Housing is guaranteed for freshmen and available for upperclassmen, with various residence halls offering different living experiences, from traditional dorms to suite-style living. The dining halls provide a range of options, and students often utilize the campus cafes and the student union for casual meals and socializing. Athletics are a part of the FDU experience, with Division III teams competing in various NCAA sports, fostering school spirit and providing opportunities for student-athletes. The Florham Campus encourages a sense of belonging, with many students finding their niche through shared interests and a supportive peer network.

Campus Highlights

The historic Florham Mansion, a stunning centerpiece of the campus, offering a unique architectural backdrop.
Beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens, providing a picturesque and serene environment for study and recreation.
Strong emphasis on career services and internship placement, leveraging proximity to NYC and NJ business centers.
A diverse range of student clubs and organizations catering to varied interests, fostering a strong sense of community.
The 'FDU Experience' which emphasizes global citizenship and practical application of knowledge.
Division III athletics program offering opportunities for student-athletes to compete and represent the university.
A close-knit campus community due to its size, facilitating strong student-faculty relationships.

Location & Regional Advantages

The Florham Campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University is strategically situated in Madison, New Jersey, offering graduates significant geographic advantages. The local job market is robust, benefiting from New Jersey's status as a hub for pharmaceuticals, finance, and technology. Proximity to major industry centers like Morristown, Parsippany, and the broader New York City metropolitan area provides unparalleled access to internships and entry-level positions. This location means graduates are well-positioned to tap into a vast network of companies, from Fortune 500 corporations to innovative startups. The cost of living in Madison and surrounding Morris County is relatively high, reflecting its affluent suburban character and desirable amenities. However, this is often offset by the higher earning potential available in the region. Quality of life is excellent, with access to cultural attractions, diverse dining, and recreational opportunities. The area is known for its safety and well-maintained communities. Weather is typical of the Mid-Atlantic, with four distinct seasons. The strong economic base and dense corporate presence in Northern New Jersey significantly enhance career opportunities post-graduation, making it easier for FDU-Florham alumni to find employment in their chosen fields without needing to relocate far from campus.

How to Get Into Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus has a high admission rate (95.2%), indicating it is generally accessible to a broad range of students. While Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) are available, the significant advantage might be less about selectivity and more about securing your spot and financial aid early. The admissions office values a well-rounded applicant, looking beyond just grades. Strong high school coursework, demonstrated leadership in extracurriculars, and a genuine interest in FDU's programs are key. While SAT/ACT scores are not listed as required, if submitted, a solid score would certainly strengthen an application. Focus on essays that showcase your personality, resilience, and how you'll contribute to the FDU community. Mentioning specific programs or faculty that excite you demonstrates research and interest. Given the open admission rate, demonstrating 'fit' and a clear academic purpose is more important than hitting a specific GPA or test score threshold. Aim to submit your application well before the priority deadlines, ideally by late fall or early winter, to maximize scholarship consideration.

How Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Drew University, Saint Peter's University, Seton Hall University, Monmouth University

Advantages

Stronger proximity to major corporate hubs in Northern New Jersey and the NYC metro area.
Potentially more diverse internship opportunities due to its location.
A slightly larger alumni network within the immediate region.

Disadvantages

Lower graduation rate compared to some peers.
Median earnings are not exceptionally high relative to the cost of attendance.
The ROI score is notably negative.

Best For

Students seeking highly specialized programs may find limited options.
Those prioritizing low debt may need to consider alternative institutions with even lower median debt.

Avoid If

Students looking for extensive on-campus resources and large-scale facilities may find FDU-Florham less appealing.
Those with financial constraints may want to explore more affordable options with similar outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

How much does it cost to attend Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus?

In-state tuition at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus is $38,004 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $38,004 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $25,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus has an acceptance rate of 95.2%.

What is the graduation rate at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus has a graduation rate of 69.7%.

How much do Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus graduates earn?

The median earnings for Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus graduates 10 years after enrollment is $57,273. With median debt of $25,000, graduates earn roughly 2.3x their debt level annually.

How big is Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus has approximately 1,990 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Madison, NJ and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus worth the cost?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus has an ROI score of -62 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $38,004 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $57,273, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus located?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus is located in Madison, NJ. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,990 students.

How much student debt do Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus graduates have?

The median student debt for Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus graduates is $25,000. With median earnings of $57,273 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 44%.

Is Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus a good college?

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus has a graduation rate of 69.7% and median post-graduation earnings of $57,273. High admission rate of 95.19% with a diverse student body.

How does Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus compare to similar colleges?

Small campus size fostering a close-knit community. Compared to peer institutions, FDU-Florham offers a strong academic and career-focused environment at a competitive cost, though with higher debt.

What career prospects do Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus graduates have?

Graduates are well-positioned for career advancement with strong earning potential and a supportive alumni network.

What should prospective students know about Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus?

The university holds a strategic position in the New Jersey higher education market, offering a blend of affordability and quality education.

What makes Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus stand out?

Strong focus on career outcomes with median earnings above national average.

What are the pros and cons of attending Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus?

Affordable tuition with a relatively low affordability score.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.