Lehigh University vs Fordham University Introduction
Choosing the right university is a crucial decision that depends on various factors, such as cost, admissions difficulty, academic offerings, and student outcomes. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision by comparing two reputable institutions, Lehigh University and Fordham University. In the following sections, we will provide an overview of each school, discuss costs and tuition, admissions, degrees offered, academics, diversity, and student outcomes.
Lehigh University Overview
Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is a private research university established in 1865. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, and the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. Lehigh University’s campus spans 2,358 acres and provides a vibrant and engaging environment for its students.
Lehigh University Costs & Tuition
The estimated cost of attendance at Lehigh University for the 2021-2022 academic year is $74,500, which includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, and personal expenses. The university offers financial aid to eligible students, and over 50% of undergraduates receive some form of financial assistance.
Lehigh University Admissions
Lehigh University is a competitive school with an acceptance rate of approximately 22%. The university evaluates applicants based on their academic records, test scores, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Competitive applicants typically have a strong academic background, with an average high school GPA of 3.91 and SAT scores between 1350 and 1500.
Lehigh University Degrees Offered
Lehigh University offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its four colleges. Popular undergraduate programs include engineering, business, and computer science, while popular graduate programs include business administration, engineering, and education.
Lehigh University Academics
Lehigh University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and emphasis on research. The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and support. Lehigh’s curriculum focuses on interdisciplinary learning and encourages students to engage in research, internships, and study abroad opportunities.
Lehigh University Diversity
Lehigh University has a diverse student body, with students representing all 50 states and over 70 countries. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and offers various diversity and inclusion initiatives and resources, such as the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Center for Gender Equity.
Lehigh University Students
Lehigh University has approximately 5,000 undergraduate students and 2,000 graduate students. The university provides a wide range of activities and organizations, including over 200 clubs and organizations, Greek life, and sports teams. Students can take advantage of numerous resources and support services, such as academic advising, career services, and health and wellness programs.
Lehigh University Campus
The Lehigh University campus is situated on 2,358 acres, with a mix of historic and modern buildings. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including research labs, libraries, and recreational spaces. Students can take advantage of the university’s proximity to the Lehigh Valley, a region rich in cultural, social, and recreational opportunities.
Lehigh University Alumni
Lehigh University has a strong alumni network, with more than 85,000 alumni worldwide. Notable alumni include Lee Iacocca (former CEO of Chrysler), Alix Tichelman (model), and Joe Morgenstern (Pulitzer Prize-winning film critic). Alumni have access to various resources and opportunities, such as networking events, career services, and lifelong learning programs.
Lehigh University Rankings
Lehigh University consistently ranks among the top national universities in the United States. In the 2021 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Lehigh is ranked #49 among National Universities and #29 in Best Value Schools. It is also ranked #42 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs and #195 in Best Global Universities.
Lehigh University Outcomes
Graduates of Lehigh University enjoy a strong record of success, with a four-year graduation rate of 78% and a six-year graduation rate of 89%. According to the university’s data, 95% of the Class of 2019 were employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for Lehigh graduates is $60,000.
Fordham University Overview
Fordham University, located in New York City, is a private Jesuit university established in 1841. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across its three campuses: Rose Hill in the Bronx, Lincoln Center in Manhattan, and Westchester in West Harrison. Fordham University’s commitment to academic excellence, its Jesuit tradition, and its location in New York City make it an attractive choice for many students.
Fordham University Costs & Tuition
The estimated cost of attendance at Fordham University for the 2021-2022 academic year is $76,891, which includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, and personal expenses. More than 90% of Fordham students receive some form of financial aid, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and federal financial aid.
Fordham University Admissions
Fordham University has a competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 46%. The university evaluates applicants based on their high school academic performance, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and extracurricular activities. Competitive applicants typically have a strong academic background, with an average high school GPA of 3.64 and SAT scores between 1270 and 1450.
Fordham University Degrees Offered
Fordham University offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and over 130 graduate and professional programs across its nine schools and colleges. Popular undergraduate programs include business, psychology, and communications, while popular graduate programs include business administration, social work, and law.
Fordham University Academics
Fordham University is known for its rigorous academics, and its location in New York City provides students with access to a wealth of resources and opportunities. The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and support. Fordham’s curriculum combines traditional liberal arts with professional studies, and students are encouraged to engage in research, internships, and study abroad opportunities.
Fordham University Diversity
Fordham University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university offers various diversity and inclusion initiatives, resources, and support services, such as the Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Office of Disability Services, and the Center for Community Engaged Learning.
Fordham University Students
Fordham University has approximately 9,200 undergraduate students and 6,700 graduate students. The university provides a vibrant and engaging campus environment, with over 200 clubs and organizations, Greek life, and sports teams. Students can take advantage of various resources and support services, such as academic advising, career services, and health and wellness programs.
Fordham University Campus
Fordham University has three campuses in the New York City area: the Rose Hill campus in the Bronx, the Lincoln Center campus in Manhattan, and the Westchester campus in West Harrison. Each campus offers a unique environment and state-of-the-art facilities, including research labs, libraries, and recreational spaces. Students can easily explore the cultural, social, and professional opportunities that New York City has to offer.
Fordham University Alumni
Fordham University has a strong alumni network, with over 185,000 alumni worldwide. Notable alumni include Denzel Washington (Academy Award-winning actor), Taylor Schilling (actress), and Geraldine Ferraro (first female vice presidential candidate from a major party). Alumni have access to various resources and opportunities, such as networking events, career services, and lifelong learning programs.
Fordham University Rankings
Fordham University consistently ranks among the top national universities in the United States. In the 2021 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Fordham is ranked #66 among National Universities and #53 in Best Value Schools. It is also ranked #54 in Best Undergraduate Business Programs and #203 in Best Global Universities.
Fordham University Outcomes
Graduates of Fordham University enjoy a strong record of success, with a four-year graduation rate of 73% and a six-year graduation rate of 83%. According to the university’s data, 95% of the Class of 2019 were employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for Fordham graduates is $57,000.
Lehigh University vs Fordham University Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending Lehigh University and Fordham University, it is essential to consider both the sticker price and the availability of financial aid. The estimated cost of attendance for the 2021-2022 academic year is $74,500 at Lehigh University and $76,891 at Fordham University. While Fordham has a slightly higher cost, over 90% of its students receive some form of financial aid, compared to 50% at Lehigh. It is crucial to evaluate each university’s financial aid offerings to determine the most affordable option for your specific situation.
Lehigh University vs Fordham University Admissions Difficulty
Both Lehigh University and Fordham University have competitive admissions processes, with acceptance rates of 22% and 46%, respectively. To be a competitive applicant at either school, students need a strong academic background, including a high GPA and competitive SAT or ACT scores. Additionally, both universities consider factors such as personal statements, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities in their admissions decisions.
Lehigh University vs Fordham University Academic Difficulty
Lehigh University and Fordham University both offer rigorous academic programs, with a focus on interdisciplinary learning and research. Both schools have relatively low student-to-faculty ratios, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and support from their professors. While both universities are known for their academic excellence, students may find varying levels of academic difficulty depending on their chosen major and individual abilities.
Lehigh University vs Fordham University Outcome Comparison
When comparing the student outcomes at Lehigh University and Fordham University, both schools have high graduation rates and strong post-graduation employment or graduate school enrollment rates. Lehigh University has a slightly higher four-year graduation rate (78%) compared to Fordham University (73%), and a higher six-year graduation rate (89% vs. 83%). The average starting salary for Lehigh graduates is $60,000, compared to $57,000 for Fordham graduates. These differences in outcomes may be significant for some students but are only one of many factors to consider when choosing between the two universities.
