In this article, we will compare two higher-education institutions in New York City, Fordham University and the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). By examining aspects such as costs, admissions, academics, and outcomes, we hope to provide prospective students with valuable insights to help make informed decisions about their education.
Fordham University Overview
Founded in 1841, Fordham University is a private Jesuit university located in New York City. With three campuses in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester County, Fordham offers a diverse range of academic programs and a thriving campus life. The university is made up of four undergraduate colleges and six graduate schools, and is known for its strong commitment to the liberal arts tradition.
Fordham University Costs & Tuition
For the 2021-2022 academic year, the total cost of attendance at Fordham University is approximately $77,000, including tuition, fees, room, and board. However, many students receive financial aid, and the average net price for first-year students is around $41,000.
Fordham University Admissions
Fordham University has an acceptance rate of 46%, placing it in the moderately competitive range for admissions. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students is 1240-1420, while the ACT range is 27-32. The school also considers factors such as class rank, extracurricular activities, and recommendations in their admissions evaluations.
Fordham University Degrees Offered
Fordham offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including business, liberal arts, sciences, social sciences, and education. Notable programs include the Gabelli School of Business, the School of Law, and the Graduate School of Social Service.
Fordham University Academics
With a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Fordham University emphasizes small class sizes and a personalized approach to education. Fordham’s core curriculum focuses on the liberal arts, ethics, and social justice, which aims to prepare students for well-rounded and meaningful lives.
Fordham University Diversity
Fordham University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The student body is made up of individuals from various backgrounds and cultures, with around 32% of students identifying as students of color.
Fordham University Students
There are approximately 16,000 students enrolled at Fordham University, with around 9,000 undergraduate and 7,000 graduate students. The university offers a variety of student organizations and clubs, including religious, cultural, service, and special interest groups.
Fordham University Campus
Fordham’s three campuses provide students with unique settings and experiences. The Rose Hill campus in the Bronx offers a traditional collegiate atmosphere with Gothic architecture and sprawling lawns, while the Lincoln Center campus in Manhattan provides a more urban experience. The Westchester campus in West Harrison primarily serves graduate and professional students.
Fordham University Alumni
Fordham University boasts a strong alumni network, with over 185,000 alumni worldwide. Notable alumni include Denzel Washington, John O. Brennan, and Patricia Clarkson, among others.
Fordham University Rankings
Fordham University consistently ranks among the top universities in the United States. In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, Fordham ranks #66 among National Universities and #32 in Best Value Schools.
Fordham University Outcomes
The overall four-year graduation rate for Fordham University is 78%, and the six-year graduation rate is 83%. According to the school, 91% of the Class of 2020 were employed, in graduate school, or engaged in other activities within six months of graduation.
FIT Overview
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is a public college in New York City focused on art, design, business, and technology related to the fashion industry. Founded in 1944, FIT has since become one of the world’s leading institutions for fashion education.
FIT Costs & Tuition
The total cost of attendance at FIT for the 2021-2022 academic year is approximately $28,000 for in-state students and $47,000 for out-of-state students, including tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid is available for eligible students, and the average net price is around $14,000 for in-state students and $33,000 for out-of-state students.
FIT Admissions
FIT has an acceptance rate of 53%, making it moderately competitive in terms of admissions. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students is 1080-1270, and the ACT range is 22-28. FIT also requires a portfolio or audition for most programs, which factors significantly in the admissions process.
FIT Degrees Offered
FIT offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in a variety of fields related to fashion, including design, marketing, merchandising, and technology. The school is also the only college in New York to offer a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fashion Design.
FIT Academics
With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, FIT emphasizes hands-on learning and small class sizes. The school’s curriculum is industry-focused, and many faculty members have professional experience in their fields.
FIT Diversity
FIT is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its community. The student body is made up of individuals from various backgrounds and cultures, with around 58% of students identifying as students of color.
FIT Students
There are approximately 8,700 students enrolled at FIT, with around 7,000 undergraduate and 1,700 graduate students. The college offers a range of student organizations and clubs, including fashion-focused groups, cultural organizations, and academic societies.
FIT Campus
FIT’s campus is located in the heart of Manhattan’s Fashion District, providing students with access to fashion industry resources, internships, and job opportunities. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, exhibition galleries, and a textile materials lab.
FIT Alumni
FIT has a strong alumni network, with many graduates achieving success in the fashion industry. Notable alumni include Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, and Nanette Lepore, among others.
FIT Rankings
FIT is consistently ranked highly for its fashion programs. In 2021, Business of Fashion ranked FIT’s undergraduate fashion design program as #5 in the world and its undergraduate fashion business program as #4 in the world.
FIT Outcome
The overall four-year graduation rate for FIT is 59%, and the six-year graduation rate is 68%. According to the school, 87% of the Class of 2020 were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Fordham University vs FIT Cost Comparison
While Fordham University’s total cost of attendance is significantly higher than FIT’s, the net price for students receiving financial aid narrows the gap between the two schools. Fordham’s average net price is around $41,000, while FIT’s average net price is $14,000 for in-state students and $33,000 for out-of-state students. It’s important for prospective students to consider their individual financial aid packages and overall financial situation when comparing these costs.
Fordham University vs FIT Admissions Difficulty
Both Fordham University and FIT have moderately competitive acceptance rates, at 46% and 53% respectively. While their SAT and ACT score ranges are similar, FIT also requires a portfolio or audition for most programs, adding another layer of complexity to the admissions process. Students should consider both their academic and artistic abilities when determining which school may be a better fit for their strengths.
Fordham University vs FIT Academic Difficulty
Fordham University’s liberal arts curriculum and focus on ethics and social justice provide a well-rounded education, while FIT’s industry-focused approach prepares students for careers in the fashion industry. Prospective students should weigh the importance of a broad education against the advantages of a specialized, career-oriented curriculum when comparing the academic difficulty of these schools.
Fordham University vs FIT Outcome Comparison
Both schools have strong post-graduation outcomes, with Fordham boasting slightly higher graduation rates and employment statistics. Fordham’s four-year graduation rate is 78%, compared to FIT’s 59%, and its six-year rate is 83%, compared to FIT’s 68%. The employment rates for both schools are similarly high, with 91% of Fordham graduates and 87% of FIT graduates employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
