Is Fordham a Good School?

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Fordham University is a private institution founded in 1841 with two campuses in New York City. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, law, medicine, and the arts. With its Jesuit tradition of intellectual rigor and respect for the individual, Fordham aims to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen careers.

When it comes to determining whether Fordham is a good school, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is its academic reputation. According to US News & World Report, Fordham is ranked #74 in the National Universities category, which includes both public and private institutions. It is also ranked #42 in the Best Colleges for Public Policy category and #61 in the Best Colleges for Accounting and Finance category. These rankings are based on a variety of factors, including academic quality, student outcomes, and expert opinions.

Another factor to consider is the student experience. Fordham has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. It offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs and organizations, athletics, and community service opportunities. Students also have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, career services, and counseling. Overall, Fordham aims to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in all areas of life.

CollegeRanker is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Academic Programs

Fordham University offers a wide range of academic programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. The university is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, but it also has a variety of professional programs that prepare students for careers in fields such as business, law, education, and social work.

Undergraduate Programs

At the undergraduate level, Fordham offers more than 60 majors across its four undergraduate colleges: Fordham College at Rose Hill, Fordham College at Lincoln Center, Gabelli School of Business, and the School of Professional and Continuing Studies. The most popular majors at Fordham include Business Administration and Management, Communications, Political Science and Government, Psychology, and Biology.

Fordham’s core curriculum is a hallmark of its undergraduate education, requiring students to take courses in a variety of disciplines to develop a well-rounded understanding of the world. The core curriculum includes courses in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, as well as courses on diversity and writing.

Additionally, Fordham offers a number of honors programs for high-achieving students, including the Honors Program, the Global Business Honors Program, and the Integrated Learning Communities Program.

Graduate Programs

Fordham offers more than 70 graduate programs across its nine graduate and professional schools, including the School of Law, Graduate School of Education, and Graduate School of Social Service. The university is particularly well-known for its programs in law, business, and social work.

The School of Law is consistently ranked as one of the top law schools in the country, and offers a variety of programs, including a Juris Doctor program, as well as LL.M. and S.J.D. programs for students who have already earned a law degree.

The Gabelli School of Business offers a range of MBA programs, as well as specialized master’s programs in areas such as accounting, marketing, and global finance. The school has a strong focus on ethics and social responsibility, and offers a number of opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships and consulting projects.

The Graduate School of Social Service is one of the oldest and most respected social work programs in the country, and offers a variety of master’s and doctoral programs in social work, as well as a number of certificate programs.

Faculty and Staff

Fordham University has a highly qualified and diverse faculty and staff that are dedicated to providing students with a quality education. According to Niche, the student-faculty ratio at Fordham is 9:1, which allows for more personalized attention and support for students.

The faculty at Fordham consists of experts in their respective fields, with many holding advanced degrees from top universities. They are committed to providing students with a challenging and engaging academic experience. In addition to their teaching responsibilities, many faculty members are also involved in research and scholarship, which allows them to bring the latest developments in their fields into the classroom.

The staff at Fordham are also an integral part of the university community. They provide a wide range of services and support to students, including academic advising, career services, and counseling. The staff are highly trained and knowledgeable, and are dedicated to helping students succeed both academically and personally.

Overall, the faculty and staff at Fordham University are a key part of what makes the university a great place to learn and grow. Their commitment to excellence and dedication to student success are evident in everything they do.

Campus Life

Fordham University offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of activities and opportunities for students to get involved. From housing and dining to student organizations, there are plenty of ways for students to make the most of their time on campus.

Housing and Dining

Fordham University offers a variety of housing options for students, including traditional dorms, apartment-style living, and themed housing communities. The on-campus housing available to freshmen is optional, and about 76% of freshmen choose to live on campus. Additionally, 55% of undergraduates live in college housing.

The average housing cost at Fordham University is not available, but according to a poll of students, 49% say that overall dorm quality is great. The university also provides dining options for students, including meal plans and various dining locations on campus.

Student Organizations

There are over 200 student organizations available at Fordham University, ranging from academic and professional organizations to cultural and social groups. These organizations provide students with opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests and passions, as well as develop leadership skills and make a positive impact on the community.

Some popular student organizations at Fordham University include the Campus Activities Board, the Fordham Political Review, and the Fordham University Pep Band. Additionally, the university offers various intramural sports and fitness programs for students to participate in.

Career Opportunities

Fordham University provides excellent career opportunities for its graduates. With a rigorous education and a commitment to producing well-rounded individuals, Fordham graduates are highly sought after in the job market.

According to Career Karma, about 91 percent of 2021 Fordham graduates were employed within six months of graduation. This is a testament to the quality of education and preparation that Fordham provides to its students.

At Fordham, students have access to a wide range of career services and resources. These include career counseling, job search assistance, internship programs, and networking events. Fordham’s Career Services team works closely with students to help them identify their career goals and develop a plan to achieve them.

In addition to these resources, Fordham has a strong alumni network that provides valuable connections and opportunities for students and graduates. Fordham alumni are known for their loyalty and commitment to the university, and they are often eager to help fellow alumni succeed in their careers.

Overall, Fordham University is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a high-quality education and strong career prospects. With its commitment to academic excellence and its focus on developing well-rounded individuals, Fordham provides a solid foundation for success in any field.

Admissions

Requirements

Fordham University is a selective school that looks for students who have demonstrated academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to their community. The university has a holistic admissions process that takes into account a student’s academic record, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.

The average high school GPA of admitted students is 3.7, and the average SAT score range is 1300-1480. The ACT score range is 30-33. However, Fordham University takes a holistic approach to admissions and considers each applicant individually, so meeting these averages does not guarantee admission.

Application Process

The application process for Fordham University is straightforward and can be completed online. The application deadline is January 1st, and students are encouraged to apply early. The application fee is $70, and fee waivers are available for eligible students.

The application requires students to submit their high school transcripts, standardized test scores, and two teacher recommendations. Students can also submit additional materials, such as a personal essay or a resume, to supplement their application.

Fordham University accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application. Students should be sure to review the application requirements carefully and submit all materials by the deadline.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Fordham University is a private institution that offers a high-quality education, but it comes at a cost. The tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is $58,082, which is higher than the national average cost of tuition of $41,568. However, Fordham offers various financial aid options to help students afford their education.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance at Fordham University includes tuition, fees, room, board, and other expenses. The total cost of attendance for the 2023-2024 academic year is estimated to be $79,878 for undergraduate students. Graduate and professional school students have different costs of attendance, which can be found on the Fordham University website.

It is important to note that the cost of attendance can vary depending on a student’s program, housing choice, and other factors. Students are encouraged to use the Financial Aid/Net Price Calculator on the Fordham University website to receive an estimated financial aid package and cost of attendance.

Scholarships and Grants

Fordham University offers various scholarships and grants to help students afford their education. According to CollegeVine, 73.6% of Fordham students receive merit aid, and the average merit award for those who do not receive need-based financial aid is $11,904. Fordham is also generous with scholarships, ranking 291st in a pool of 1,000 schools CollegeVine analyzed for merit aid generosity.

Additionally, Fordham offers need-based financial aid to eligible students. Students can apply for need-based aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. The amount of need-based aid a student receives depends on their financial need and other factors.

Overall, while Fordham University’s tuition may be higher than the national average, the university offers various financial aid options to help students afford their education.

Conclusion

After analyzing the data and reviews, it is clear that Fordham University is a reputable institution that provides a rigorous education and produces graduates who are eligible for jobs they are interested in. The university has a solid reputation in disciplines like Finance, Accounting, and Business Administration, and its graduates are highly sought after by employers.

Furthermore, Fordham University has been recovering positions in the national rankings and registers high student satisfaction levels. The university has its values in place and offers a fulfilling and enthusiastic school life.

However, it is important to note that no school is perfect, and Fordham University has its cons and weak points. Admission to Fordham is highly selective, and the cost of attendance can be quite high. Additionally, some students have reported feeling overwhelmed by the workload and the competitive environment.

Overall, Fordham University is a good school that provides a quality education and prepares its graduates for successful careers. Prospective students should carefully consider their options and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of attending Fordham University before making a decision.