Rollins College

Based on the provided data, Rollins College has a negative ROI score of -76, suggesting that the median earnings 10 years after entry may not sufficiently cover the cost of education and debt incurred.

The graduation rate at Rollins College is 75.9%.

The out-of-state and in-state tuition is $60,580, while the median earnings 10 years after entry are $58,295, resulting in a negative ROI.

The median debt at graduation for students at Rollins College is $25,500.

With an affordability score of 35 and high tuition costs, Rollins College may not be affordable for many students without significant financial aid or scholarships.

Rollins College has a selective admission rate of approximately 47.5%, indicating that while it is not exceptionally difficult to gain admission, it requires a competitive application. This means that roughly half of all applicants are offered admission. To be a strong candidate, prospective students should focus on presenting a well-rounded application that includes strong academic performance (GPA and rigor of coursework), compelling essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular involvement. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) may also be considered, though policies can vary. The college looks for students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and a good fit with Rollins' liberal arts mission and vibrant campus community. Early Decision or Early Action plans can sometimes offer a slight advantage for highly motivated applicants. It's crucial to review the specific requirements and deadlines on the Rollins admissions website and to tailor your application to showcase your unique strengths and interests.

Determining if Rollins College is 'worth the money' requires a careful cost-benefit analysis. The sticker price of $60,580 is substantial, and the median 10-year earnings of $58,295 present a concerning picture, as annual earnings are lower than the tuition cost. The median debt of $25,500 is a manageable figure, but the ROI score of -76 suggests a long payback period for the investment. This indicates that, on average, graduates may not see a significant financial return on their education in the short to medium term. However, value is subjective and depends heavily on individual circumstances. Students who receive substantial financial aid, scholarships, or grants can significantly reduce the net cost, improving the financial outlook. Furthermore, the quality of education, career services support, internship opportunities, and the development of critical thinking and communication skills are intangible benefits that contribute to long-term career success and personal growth, which are not captured by median earnings alone. If Rollins helps a student secure a high-paying job or pursue advanced degrees that lead to higher earning potential, the investment can be justified. For students seeking a strong liberal arts foundation and a supportive community, and who can mitigate the cost through aid, Rollins can be a valuable choice. However, for those solely focused on maximizing immediate financial return, the data suggests caution.

Rollins College offers a strong liberal arts curriculum, and the 'best' majors often depend on individual career aspirations and aptitudes. However, programs that leverage the college's strengths and align with strong regional and national job markets tend to be highly regarded. Majors such as Business Administration, Economics, and Communications are popular and often lead to successful careers in Florida's thriving business and tourism sectors. The Psychology and Political Science departments are also robust, preparing students for graduate studies or roles in social services, law, and public policy. For those interested in the arts and humanities, majors like English, Art History, and Theater provide a solid foundation for creative careers or further academic pursuits. Given the proximity to major entertainment and hospitality industries, majors related to Hospitality Management (often housed within Business) and Digital Arts can also be advantageous. It's recommended that students explore majors that foster critical thinking, strong writing skills, and adaptability, as these are transferable assets highly valued by employers across all industries. Consulting with the career services department and faculty advisors can provide further insight into specific program strengths and career pathways.

Student life at Rollins College is characterized by a vibrant, close-knit community set against the backdrop of a beautiful, historic campus in Winter Park. As a smaller liberal arts institution, Rollins fosters a strong sense of community where students often know each other across different majors and years. The campus culture emphasizes a balance between academic rigor and engaging extracurricular activities. Students can participate in over 50 clubs and organizations, including academic societies, cultural groups, volunteer initiatives, and intramural sports. Rollins is also home to NCAA Division II athletics, providing opportunities for student-athletes. Social life often revolves around campus events, student government, and exploring the charming town of Winter Park, which offers numerous cafes, shops, and cultural venues. The college encourages personal growth and leadership development through various programs and student organizations. While it may not have the large-scale party scene of a major university, Rollins offers a rich social environment for students seeking meaningful connections, personal development, and a supportive campus atmosphere.

Rollins College is committed to making its education accessible and offers a range of financial aid options to eligible students. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. Aid is typically awarded based on both financial need and academic merit. Merit-based scholarships are often awarded automatically to admitted students based on their academic profile, while need-based aid requires the submission of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and potentially the CSS Profile. Rollins also offers institutional grants, federal grants (like Pell Grants), federal loans, and work-study opportunities. While the average financial aid package details can fluctuate annually, the college aims to bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and a family's ability to pay. It is crucial for prospective students to thoroughly research the types of aid available, meet all application deadlines, and contact the Rollins Office of Financial Aid directly for personalized guidance on maximizing their aid eligibility. Early application for aid is generally recommended.

The median salary for Rollins College graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $58,295. However, this is a median figure and actual salaries can vary significantly based on major, career path, geographic location, and individual performance. Graduates from business-related fields, such as finance and marketing, often command higher starting salaries, especially if they secure positions in major metropolitan areas or with large corporations. For instance, entry-level marketing roles in Orlando might start in the $45,000-$55,000 range, while finance positions could begin higher. Graduates pursuing careers in education or non-profit sectors might see lower starting salaries. Those who go on to graduate school (e.g., law school, MBA programs) will have a delayed entry into the workforce but potentially higher long-term earning potential. To get a more precise estimate, it's advisable to research average starting salaries for specific majors at Rollins, consult the career services department for placement data, and look at salary ranges for entry-level positions in desired industries and locations. For example, a Rollins graduate entering the tech industry in a software development role might expect a starting salary upwards of $70,000-$80,000, significantly above the reported median.

Rollins College provides a variety of on-campus housing options designed to foster a sense of community and support student success. First-year students are typically required to live on campus, ensuring they have a strong introduction to college life and easy access to resources. The residence halls range from traditional dormitory-style living with shared rooms and common bathrooms to suite-style arrangements. Popular first-year housing includes McKean Hall and Strong Hall, known for their vibrant community atmosphere. As students progress, they may have the opportunity to live in apartment-style residences or upper-class housing, offering more independence and amenities. All residence halls are furnished, include basic utilities, and provide access to common areas like lounges and study rooms. The college emphasizes creating safe, inclusive, and engaging living environments, with Resident Advisors (RAs) available to support students. The campus is highly walkable, meaning most dorms are conveniently located near academic buildings, dining halls, and student centers, making daily life convenient for residents.

Rollins College, as a liberal arts institution, offers excellent opportunities for undergraduate research, though it differs from the large-scale, graduate-focused research found at major research universities. The emphasis is on providing students with hands-on research experience under the guidance of faculty mentors. Many departments encourage or require students to undertake independent research projects, often culminating in a senior thesis or capstone project. These opportunities allow students to delve deeply into subjects that interest them, develop critical analytical skills, and gain valuable experience that can prepare them for graduate school or specialized careers. Rollins hosts an annual Student Research Conference where students present their findings, fostering a scholarly environment. While Rollins may not have the extensive research facilities or grant funding of larger institutions, its strength lies in the personalized attention students receive from faculty, enabling them to engage in meaningful research that complements their academic journey. Students interested in research should actively seek out faculty whose work aligns with their interests.

Rollins College is often compared to other private liberal arts colleges in Florida and the Southeast, such as Stetson University, Florida Southern College, and Eckerd College. Compared to these peers, Rollins generally offers a strong emphasis on personalized attention and a close-knit community due to its size. Its location in Winter Park provides a more suburban, upscale environment than some other Florida college towns. Academically, Rollins competes well in areas like business, communications, and the arts, often providing robust internship opportunities within the Central Florida region. However, some of these peer institutions might offer slightly lower tuition rates or have specific niche programs that attract different student populations. Nationally, Rollins might be seen as less prominent than larger, more established liberal arts colleges in other regions, potentially impacting national brand recognition and alumni network reach. While Rollins boasts a strong regional reputation, its sticker price and median earnings data place it in a competitive but challenging position when compared to institutions with similar offerings but potentially better financial outcomes or broader national appeal.

Employers generally hold a positive view of graduates from Rollins College, particularly within the Florida market and in industries that value strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills – hallmarks of a liberal arts education. Companies like Publix, Walt Disney World, and Orlando Health, which are major regional employers, actively recruit Rollins graduates and recognize the quality of education provided. The college's emphasis on internships and experiential learning means that many graduates enter the workforce with practical experience, which employers highly value. The career services department at Rollins also plays a role in shaping employer perception by facilitating connections and ensuring students are well-prepared for professional environments. While Rollins may not have the same level of national name recognition as Ivy League or large research universities, its reputation as a reputable liberal arts institution that produces well-rounded, adaptable individuals is solid. Employers appreciate the soft skills and intellectual agility that Rollins graduates typically possess, making them valuable assets in a variety of professional roles.