Friends University

The provided ROI score of -62 and median earnings relative to debt suggest that a degree from Friends University may not be a strong financial investment for many graduates.

The graduation rate at Friends University is 52.4%, which is below the national average.

The tuition is $34,192, and while median debt is $25,000, the median 10-year earnings of $52,113 present a challenging financial outlook.

Friends University offers a small campus environment with a diverse student body, but the academic outcomes and financial returns warrant careful consideration.

Friends University has an affordability score of 55, indicating moderate affordability, but the overall financial return on investment is a significant concern.

Friends University has an acceptance rate of 55.2%, classifying it as a moderately selective institution. This means that while a significant portion of applicants are admitted, meeting the general admission requirements does not guarantee entry. To increase your chances, focus on presenting a strong academic profile. This includes maintaining a good GPA, particularly in core subjects like English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. While specific GPA or standardized test score cutoffs are not always publicly disclosed, aiming for a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is generally advisable. If Friends University is test-optional, strong grades can compensate for lower test scores, or vice versa. Ensure your application essays are well-written and demonstrate your personality, goals, and why you are a good fit for Friends University's values. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who know you well can also significantly bolster your application. Early application might also be beneficial, though it's not explicitly stated if they offer early decision or early action programs with different admission standards. Overall, while not highly competitive, a thoughtful and well-prepared application is key to a successful admission outcome.

Evaluating the financial worth of Friends University requires a close look at its cost versus potential return. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $34,192 annually, the total cost for a four-year degree can easily exceed $130,000, not including living expenses. The median 10-year earnings for graduates are reported at $52,113, which is relatively modest and does not significantly outpace the cost of attendance. The median debt of $25,000 adds to the financial burden. Based on these figures, the ROI Score of -62 suggests a negative return on investment in the short to medium term. This means that, on average, graduates may not recoup their educational expenses through increased earnings within a typical timeframe. For example, if a graduate earns $52,113 annually and dedicates $10,000 per year to debt repayment and recouping educational costs, it would take over 10 years just to break even on the initial investment, not accounting for interest or the opportunity cost of not investing that money elsewhere. Therefore, Friends University is not a clear financial win for the average student. Its value is more likely found in specific programs, career services support, or for students who receive substantial financial aid or scholarships, which can significantly alter the cost-benefit analysis.

Friends University's strengths often lie in programs that align with the regional economy and its faculty expertise. Given Wichita's status as the 'Air Capital of the World,' majors within the College of Business and the College of Sciences, particularly those related to engineering management, business administration with a focus on supply chain or operations, and potentially computer science or data analytics, are likely to offer strong career prospects. The robust healthcare sector in Wichita makes nursing and allied health programs highly relevant and in demand. Friends University's College of Education also likely produces well-prepared teachers who are sought after in local school districts. For students interested in the arts, the university has a history of strong programs in music and theatre, which can lead to careers in performance, education, or arts administration. To identify the 'best' majors, prospective students should research specific program outcomes, faculty credentials, internship opportunities, and alumni success stories within each department. Majors that lead to high-demand professions like nursing, or those that feed directly into Wichita's major industries (aerospace, healthcare), are generally considered strong choices.

Student life at Friends University is characterized by its close-knit community and a focus on holistic development, reflecting its Quaker heritage. With a relatively small student population of around 1,048, the campus fosters a personal and engaging atmosphere. Students can expect smaller class sizes, allowing for more direct interaction with professors and peers. The university offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student government, various clubs and organizations catering to academic interests, spiritual life, and hobbies, as well as intramural sports. The athletic teams, known as the Falcons, compete in the NAIA, providing opportunities for student-athletes. Campus events, chapels, and service projects are common, encouraging spiritual growth and community involvement. While Wichita itself offers off-campus entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences, the on-campus social scene is likely more subdued compared to larger universities, emphasizing community building and shared experiences. The university also has a strong emphasis on its Christian values, which permeates many aspects of campus life, including spiritual formation opportunities and community service initiatives. Overall, student life at Friends University is geared towards a supportive, engaged, and community-oriented experience.

Friends University provides a variety of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of tuition and living expenses. This aid typically includes federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, and student loans. Institutional aid is a significant component, with many students receiving merit-based scholarships, academic scholarships, and need-based grants directly from the university. Specific scholarship programs may be tied to academic achievement, athletic participation, leadership potential, or specific fields of study. For example, students demonstrating strong academic performance might receive the Presidential Scholarship or Dean's Scholarship. Friends University also participates in federal financial aid programs, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, for eligible students who complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The university's financial aid office works with students to create personalized financial aid packages. While specific average aid amounts are not detailed here, prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA and contact the Friends University Financial Aid Office directly to understand their eligibility for grants, scholarships, and loans, as these can significantly reduce the net cost of attendance and improve the overall financial value of the degree.

The median salary expected after graduating from Friends University, based on the provided data, is $52,113 per year (10-year median earnings). However, this figure is an average and actual salaries can vary significantly depending on the student's major, academic performance, internship experiences, and the specific industry and location of employment. For instance, graduates from high-demand fields like nursing or those entering the aerospace industry in engineering or management roles in Wichita might expect starting salaries well above this median, potentially in the $60,000-$80,000 range or higher, especially with experience. Conversely, graduates in fields with lower market demand or those entering roles with less specialized training might earn closer to or even below the median. It's crucial for prospective students to research salary expectations for their intended major. For example, a business major might see a wide range depending on specialization (e.g., finance vs. general management), while a teacher's salary will be dictated by school district pay scales. The $52,113 median earnings figure suggests that while a degree from Friends University provides a pathway to employment, the financial returns are moderate, and career progression and further specialization will be key to increasing earning potential beyond this average.

Friends University offers on-campus housing options designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for its students. The university typically provides traditional dormitory-style living, with shared rooms and common living areas. Key residence halls often include facilities like lounges, study areas, and laundry rooms. While specific names of dorms and their amenities can change, the general atmosphere is intended to foster community and academic support. Students living on campus benefit from proximity to classes, dining facilities, and campus events. Room and board costs are factored into the overall cost of attendance. Friends University generally requires freshmen and sophomores to live on campus unless they meet specific exemption criteria, such as being married or living with parents in the immediate Wichita area. The housing is supervised by Resident Assistants (RAs) who help maintain community standards and provide support to residents. The goal of the on-campus housing is to create a safe, inclusive, and conducive environment for academic success and personal growth, encouraging students to build relationships and engage with campus life.

Friends University, as a smaller liberal arts institution, offers research opportunities primarily at the undergraduate level, often integrated into coursework and faculty-led projects rather than large-scale, independent graduate research facilities. Students in science disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, and psychology, frequently have opportunities to engage in research alongside faculty members. These opportunities might involve assisting professors with ongoing studies, conducting independent research projects for credit, or presenting findings at undergraduate research symposia. The university's commitment to a liberal arts education means that research skills, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning are emphasized across various disciplines. While Friends University may not have the extensive research infrastructure of a major R1 university, its size allows for more personalized faculty mentorship, which can be highly beneficial for undergraduates seeking research experience. Students interested in research can explore opportunities through departmental honors programs, specific research grants offered by the university, or by proactively approaching faculty whose research aligns with their interests. This hands-on approach can be valuable preparation for graduate school or research-oriented careers.

Friends University is a private, nonprofit university with a moderate admission rate and a focus on undergraduate education. When compared to similar institutions, it often stands alongside other regional private colleges in Kansas and surrounding states that offer a liberal arts or career-focused education. Its peers might include schools like Bethel College, Tabor College, and Newman University in Kansas, or potentially similar-sized private colleges in Missouri or Oklahoma. Friends University's key differentiator is its location in Wichita, providing direct access to a significant job market in aerospace and healthcare, which might be less pronounced at more rural or smaller-city-based institutions. Its tuition is generally in line with other private institutions in the region, though potentially higher than public universities. The graduation rate of 52.4% is a point of comparison; some peer institutions may have higher rates, indicating potentially stronger student support or program completion focus. The median earnings of $52,113 are also a benchmark; some peers might report higher or lower figures depending on their program strengths and regional economic ties. Friends University's value proposition is often tied to its specific industry connections in Wichita and its supportive, community-oriented campus environment, which may be more pronounced than at larger or more academically competitive universities.

Employers, particularly those within the Wichita metropolitan area and the state of Kansas, generally hold a positive perception of graduates from Friends University, especially in fields aligned with the university's strengths. Companies like Spirit AeroSystems, Textron Aviation, and Ascension Via Christi, which are major employers in the region, often recruit directly from Friends University due to established relationships and the university's focus on preparing students for local industry needs. Employers value the practical skills and work ethic instilled in Friends University graduates, often attributed to the university's emphasis on hands-on learning, internships, and a supportive, values-driven educational environment. The smaller class sizes and faculty mentorship can result in graduates who are well-prepared, adaptable, and possess strong communication skills. While Friends University may not have the widespread national brand recognition of larger, more prominent universities, its reputation within its core industries and geographic region is solid. Employers recognize the quality of education provided, particularly in areas like nursing, education, business, and aviation-related fields, making a degree from Friends University a credible credential for entry-level positions and career advancement within its sphere of influence.