St. John Fisher University

The provided ROI score of -59 suggests that the median earnings after 10 years may not sufficiently cover the median debt at graduation, making the financial return on investment a potential concern.

While the graduation rate is solid at 74.3%, specific data on academic program strengths or selectivity is limited in the provided information.

The tuition is $41,190, and while median earnings reach $66,944 after 10 years, the median debt of $23,250 and a negative ROI score indicate a potentially unfavorable cost-to-outcome ratio.

As a medium-sized private university with 2,565 students, it likely offers a more personalized experience than larger institutions, though specific details on campus life are not provided.

Given the negative ROI score and moderate selectivity, prospective students should carefully weigh the cost against potential future earnings and consider alternative options.

St. John Fisher University has an acceptance rate of approximately 66.4%, classifying it as a moderately selective institution. This means that while a significant portion of applicants are admitted, the university still reviews applications carefully. To increase your chances of admission, focus on presenting a strong academic profile. This includes maintaining a good GPA, particularly in core subjects, and demonstrating rigor in your coursework. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered, though policies can vary, so check the most current requirements. Beyond academics, highlight extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, volunteer work, and any relevant work experience. A compelling personal essay that showcases your personality, goals, and why St. John Fisher is the right fit for you is crucial. Strong letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who can speak to your character and academic potential will also bolster your application. Early application, if offered, can sometimes provide an advantage. Overall, while not hyper-competitive, a well-prepared and thoughtfully presented application is key to a successful admission outcome.

Evaluating the financial worth of St. John Fisher University requires a close look at its cost versus potential return. With an annual tuition of $41,190 and a median 10-year earning of $66,944, the immediate earnings don't dramatically outpace the yearly cost. The median debt of $23,250 is a manageable figure, suggesting that graduates aren't burdened by excessive loans. However, the reported ROI score of -59 indicates that, on average, the financial return on investment is not strong, meaning it takes longer for graduates to earn back their educational expenses compared to the cost. If you can secure substantial financial aid or scholarships, the net cost decreases significantly, improving the value proposition. Furthermore, if your chosen major leads to a high-demand, high-paying career (e.g., certain health professions), your personal ROI could be much higher than the average. For students who are deeply committed to the Rochester area and plan to leverage the strong local alumni network, the career placement advantages might outweigh the cost. However, for students seeking a broad national job market or aiming for careers with exceptionally high earning potential, the cost may be a significant hurdle relative to the average outcomes.

St. John Fisher University excels in several program areas, particularly those aligned with strong regional employment opportunities. The School of Nursing and Health Sciences is highly regarded, with programs like Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Pharmacy often leading to stable, in-demand careers within the Rochester healthcare ecosystem. Graduates from these programs are well-positioned for employment at major local health systems like UR Medicine and Rochester Regional Health. The Wegmans School of Pharmacy, in particular, is a flagship program. Business programs, including Accounting and Management, also tend to place well, especially within Rochester-based companies like Wegmans, Constellation Brands, and various financial institutions. For those interested in education, Fisher's programs prepare students for teaching roles in local school districts. While specific salary data by major isn't always granularly published, fields like pharmacy and nursing typically offer strong starting salaries that can justify the investment. Students considering Fisher should explore programs with clear career pathways and high local demand, such as those within the health sciences and business sectors, to maximize their return on investment.

Student life at St. John Fisher University is characterized by a close-knit community feel within a suburban campus setting. As a smaller university, there's a strong emphasis on personal interaction between students and faculty, fostering a supportive academic and social environment. The campus offers a range of extracurricular activities, including over 50 student clubs and organizations covering academic interests, cultural groups, service opportunities, and recreational pursuits. Athletics are a significant part of campus life, with the Fisher Cardinals competing in the Empire 8 Conference, offering opportunities for student-athletes. Social events, campus traditions, and student government provide avenues for engagement. While it may not offer the bustling nightlife of a large city university, Fisher provides a more intimate campus experience with opportunities for students to get involved, build lasting friendships, and develop leadership skills. The suburban location offers access to the amenities of Rochester while maintaining a focused campus atmosphere.

St. John Fisher University is committed to making education accessible through various forms of financial aid. A significant percentage of students receive some form of financial assistance. Aid packages typically include a combination of federal and state grants (like Pell Grants and New York State TAP), institutional scholarships, and student loans. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students demonstrating academic excellence, while need-based aid is available for those with demonstrated financial need. The university also offers specific scholarships tied to academic programs, athletics, or community involvement. To determine eligibility, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and, often, the CSS Profile for institutional aid consideration. While specific average aid amounts can fluctuate annually, Fisher aims to provide aid that helps bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and a family's ability to pay. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office directly for personalized information and to explore all available options, including payment plans and external scholarship resources.

The median salary for St. John Fisher University graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $66,944. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on major, career path, and geographic location. Graduates from high-demand fields like Pharmacy and Nursing typically command higher starting salaries. For instance, entry-level registered nurses in the Rochester area might expect starting salaries in the $60,000-$70,000 range, with significant potential for growth. Pharmacists often start higher, potentially in the $80,000-$100,000 range, depending on the role and employer. Business graduates' salaries will depend heavily on their specific role (e.g., accounting, marketing, finance) and the size of the company, with starting salaries potentially ranging from $50,000 to $65,000. Graduates who pursue advanced degrees (like DPT or PharmD) will see a substantial increase in earning potential. Those who stay within the Rochester region may earn less than those who relocate to higher-paying job markets, but this is often offset by a lower cost of living. It's crucial to research specific career paths within your intended major to get a more accurate salary expectation.

St. John Fisher University offers 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, providing an immersive introduction to university life. Housing options include traditional residence halls with double-occupancy rooms and shared common areas, as well as suite-style living arrangements. Popular residence halls include Murphy Hall, Clare Hall, and the Townhouses, which offer apartment-style living for upperclassmen. Each hall provides basic furnishings, laundry facilities, and common spaces for studying and socializing. Resident Assistants (RAs) are available in each hall to provide support, organize activities, and ensure a safe living environment. The university emphasizes creating a community atmosphere within the residence halls, encouraging interaction and mutual respect among students. While specific amenities can vary by building, the overall goal is to provide a comfortable, convenient, and conducive living and learning environment for students during their time at Fisher.

St. John Fisher University provides undergraduate research opportunities, particularly within its science and health-related programs. While it is not a large research university with extensive graduate programs driving massive research initiatives, it encourages faculty-mentored research for undergraduates. Students in programs like Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, and Nursing often have opportunities to engage in research projects alongside professors. These projects can range from laboratory-based investigations to clinical research or community-based studies. The university supports these endeavors through faculty guidance, access to lab facilities, and sometimes through specific undergraduate research grants or programs. While the scale of research may not match that of major R1 institutions, the hands-on experience gained through faculty mentorship is valuable. It allows students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of their field, which can be beneficial for graduate school applications or entry-level positions requiring analytical skills. Students interested in research should proactively seek out faculty whose work aligns with their interests.

St. John Fisher University is often compared to other private, liberal arts-focused institutions in Upstate New York, such as Nazareth University, Roberts Wesleyan University, and Le Moyne College. Compared to Nazareth and Roberts Wesleyan, Fisher often has a slightly stronger emphasis on its pharmacy and nursing programs, which are key strengths in the Rochester market. Le Moyne, located in Syracuse, offers a similar private liberal arts experience but may have stronger ties to the Syracuse business community. In terms of size and selectivity, Fisher sits in a similar tier to these institutions. Its admission rate (66.4%) is comparable to or slightly higher than some peers, suggesting a similar level of academic expectation. The graduation rate (74.3%) is respectable but falls slightly below the top-tier private institutions. The median earnings ($66,944) are competitive within this regional peer group, though potentially lower than graduates from more selective universities in larger metropolitan areas. Fisher's primary advantage often lies in its deep integration with the Rochester healthcare and business sectors, offering a more localized but robust internship and job placement network compared to schools with a broader, less concentrated reach.

Employers, particularly within the Rochester, NY region, generally hold a positive view of graduates from St. John Fisher University. The university has cultivated a reputation for producing well-prepared, career-ready individuals, especially in fields like nursing, pharmacy, and business. Local healthcare systems, such as UR Medicine and Rochester Regional Health, actively recruit Fisher graduates due to the strong performance of alumni in these roles. Similarly, regional businesses value the practical skills and professional demeanor of Fisher alumni. The university's emphasis on career services, internships, and experiential learning contributes to this positive perception. Employers appreciate that Fisher graduates often possess a strong work ethic and are familiar with the local professional landscape. While the university may not have the same level of national brand recognition as larger, more prestigious institutions, its strong regional presence and the consistent quality of its graduates ensure that a degree from St. John Fisher is respected and sought after by employers in its primary geographic market.