Franklin College

Franklin College has a negative ROI score of -64, suggesting that the median graduate earnings ten years after entry do not sufficiently cover the cost of attendance and debt incurred. Further investigation into specific program outcomes is recommended.

The median debt for graduates at Franklin College is $27,000.

Franklin College's graduation rate of 61.8% is around the average for small private institutions, but could be improved.

Department of Education data indicates median earnings of $55,376 ten years after entry, but specific career paths and outcomes by major are not detailed here.

Franklin College has an Affordability Score of 55, which is moderate. However, the high tuition of $38,710 and a negative ROI score suggest potential long-term financial challenges for graduates.

Franklin College has a moderately selective admission rate of approximately 69.8%, meaning that nearly 70% of applicants are accepted. This suggests that while Franklin College is not considered highly competitive to get into, it still requires applicants to meet certain academic standards. To increase your chances of admission, focus on maintaining a strong GPA, particularly in core academic subjects like English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are often considered, so aim for scores that are at or above the average for admitted students. Crafting a compelling personal essay can also help showcase your personality, goals, and why you are a good fit for Franklin College. Engaging in extracurricular activities demonstrates well-roundedness and commitment. Finally, ensure all application materials are submitted by the deadlines, and consider visiting the campus or attending virtual information sessions to show your interest.

Evaluating whether Franklin College is 'worth the money' requires a careful cost-benefit analysis. The annual tuition is $38,710, and the median debt for graduates is $27,000. However, the median earnings 10 years after graduation are reported at $55,376, resulting in a negative ROI score of -64. This indicates that, on average, graduates are not seeing a significant financial return on their investment within the first decade. To break even or see a positive return, graduates would need to earn substantially more than this median, or the cost of attendance would need to be significantly reduced through scholarships and grants. A $27,000 debt, repaid over 10 years at a 6% interest rate, would result in monthly payments of approximately $290. This means a significant portion of the median salary would go towards debt repayment. While Franklin College offers a personalized experience, the financial data suggests it may be overpriced for the average student unless substantial financial aid is secured or the student pursues a high-earning career path.

While 'best' majors are subjective and depend on individual career goals, certain programs at Franklin College tend to align well with regional economic demands and offer promising career prospects. Majors within the health sciences, such as Nursing or Pre-Professional Health Sciences, are often strong choices given the significant healthcare industry presence in Indiana, particularly around Indianapolis. Business administration, with specializations in areas like marketing or finance, can also lead to opportunities in the robust financial and corporate sectors of the nearby city. Education majors are consistently in demand across Indiana's school districts. For students interested in creative fields, programs like Graphic Design or Communications can lead to roles in marketing and media. It's crucial for students to research specific program outcomes, faculty expertise, and internship opportunities within each major. Consulting with career services and faculty advisors is highly recommended to identify the most suitable and potentially lucrative paths.

Student life at Franklin College is characterized by its small size, fostering a close-knit and engaged community. With around 900 students, the campus environment is intimate, allowing for strong relationships between students, faculty, and staff. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education with a focus on holistic development. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, ranging from academic societies and cultural groups to intramural sports and volunteer initiatives. The Greek life system, while present, is typically smaller in scale compared to larger universities. Campus events, such as guest lectures, performances, and social gatherings, are common and provide opportunities for students to connect. Given its location, students often balance campus activities with exploring the nearby city of Indianapolis for entertainment and dining. The overall atmosphere is often described as friendly, supportive, and conducive to focused academic pursuits, with ample opportunities for involvement.

Franklin College is committed to making education accessible and offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. Merit-based scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement, such as GPA and standardized test scores, while need-based grants are determined by a student's financial circumstances as assessed through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile. The college also offers specific scholarships tied to athletic participation, artistic talent, or specific academic programs. Federal aid, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, is also available to eligible students. To understand the full scope of aid available, prospective students should complete the FAFSA as early as possible and contact the Franklin College Office of Financial Aid directly to discuss their individual situation and explore all potential funding sources. It's crucial to note that while aid is available, the net price after aid should be carefully considered against potential post-graduation earnings.

The median salary expected after graduating from Franklin College, based on 10-year data, is $55,376. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on the student's chosen major and career path. For instance, graduates entering high-demand fields like nursing or certain business specializations (e.g., finance) within the Indianapolis metropolitan area might expect starting salaries in the $60,000-$75,000 range, potentially exceeding the 10-year median relatively quickly. Conversely, graduates in fields with less direct industry demand or those pursuing careers in lower-paying sectors might see starting salaries closer to $40,000-$50,000. It is essential to research specific salary expectations for your intended major by looking at industry reports, using salary comparison websites, and speaking with Franklin College's career services. Factors like internships, networking, and additional certifications can also influence earning potential. The provided median earnings suggest a moderate return, but individual outcomes can differ substantially.

Franklin College provides on-campus housing options designed to support the student experience. The college typically requires first-year students to live on campus, fostering a sense of community and integration. Housing options generally include traditional residence halls with shared rooms and common living areas, as well as some suite-style options. Each hall usually has resident assistants (RAs) to provide support and community building. Dorm rooms are typically furnished with basic necessities like a bed, desk, and closet space for each student. Common areas often include lounges for studying and socializing, laundry facilities, and sometimes kitchens or study rooms. While specific amenities can vary by building, the focus is on providing a safe, comfortable, and functional living environment that encourages student interaction and academic success. Students can typically choose their housing preferences, and the college works to accommodate these requests based on availability.

Franklin College, as a liberal arts institution, offers opportunities for undergraduate research, though perhaps not on the same scale as large research universities. The emphasis is typically on faculty-mentored research, allowing students to work closely with professors on projects within their specific disciplines. This hands-on approach can be highly beneficial, providing students with valuable research skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deeper understanding of their field. Students may have opportunities to present their research at campus symposia or even at regional or national academic conferences. While Franklin College may not have extensive research facilities or large-scale grant funding dedicated solely to undergraduate research, the personalized nature of the education means that motivated students can find meaningful research experiences. It's advisable for students interested in research to proactively connect with faculty members whose work aligns with their interests to explore potential opportunities.

Franklin College is often compared to other small, private liberal arts colleges in Indiana and the surrounding Midwest region. Its peers might include institutions like Butler University, DePauw University, Hanover College, and potentially some smaller regional universities. Compared to these, Franklin College's admission rate (69.8%) is generally higher than some of its more selective peers like DePauw or Wabash, suggesting it may be more accessible. The graduation rate (61.8%) is also on the lower end compared to some of these institutions, which often boast rates in the 70s or 80s. Financially, Franklin College's median earnings ($55,376) are competitive within this group but may lag behind institutions with stronger national recruiting or more robust alumni networks. Its primary advantage often lies in its location relative to Indianapolis, offering direct access to a major job market, and potentially a more affordable tuition or more generous financial aid packages than some of its more established, higher-ranked peers. However, its overall reputation and alumni network may be less extensive.

Employers in the Midwest, particularly within Indiana, generally hold a positive perception of graduates from Franklin College, especially those who have demonstrated strong work ethic and practical skills through internships and extracurriculars. As a smaller institution, Franklin College graduates are often recognized for their personalized attention from faculty and their ability to engage deeply with their studies. Employers value the well-rounded education provided by the liberal arts approach. However, the brand recognition of Franklin College is primarily regional. For national employers or those in highly competitive industries, a degree from Franklin might not carry the same weight as one from a larger, more widely known university. The key for Franklin graduates is to effectively articulate their skills, experiences, and the value of their education during the job search process. Strong internship experiences and networking through the alumni association are crucial for employers to recognize the quality and potential of a Franklin College graduate.