Choosing the right college or university is a crucial decision that can shape your future. In this comparison, we will be examining two institutions, Loyola Marymount University and the University of Kentucky. We will delve into each school’s overview, costs and tuition, admissions, degrees offered, academics, diversity, student life, campus, alumni, rankings, and outcomes to help you make an informed decision between these two reputable institutions.
Loyola Marymount University Overview
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is a private, Jesuit-affiliated university located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1911, LMU is known for its beautiful campus, strong liberal arts foundation, and commitment to social justice and service. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, engineering, film and television, and the liberal arts.
University of Kentucky Overview
The University of Kentucky (UK) is a public research university in Lexington, Kentucky. Established in 1865, UK is the largest university in the state and offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research, excellent athletic programs, and vibrant campus life.
Loyola Marymount University Costs & Tuition
Tuition at Loyola Marymount University is relatively high due to its private status. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the tuition cost is $50,283, with an additional $15,600 estimated for room and board. Financial aid packages and scholarships are available to help offset the cost of attendance for students in need.
University of Kentucky Costs & Tuition
As a public university, the University of Kentucky has a lower tuition rate for in-state students. For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state tuition is $12,360, while out-of-state tuition is $31,294. Room and board is estimated at $13,050. Financial aid and scholarships are also available for eligible students.
Loyola Marymount University Admissions
Admission to Loyola Marymount University is considered moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 47% in 2020. Applicants are required to submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The average SAT score for accepted students is 1300-1470, while the average ACT score ranges from 28-32.
University of Kentucky Admissions
The University of Kentucky has a more lenient admissions process with an acceptance rate of 94% in 2020. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1080-1320, and the average ACT score is 23-29.
Loyola Marymount University Degrees Offered
Loyola Marymount University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its various colleges and schools, including the College of Business Administration, the School of Film and Television, and the School of Education. Degrees are offered in fields such as business, engineering, film and television, liberal arts, and sciences.
University of Kentucky Degrees Offered
The University of Kentucky offers numerous undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various colleges and schools, including the College of Engineering, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Education. Degrees are available in fields such as agriculture, business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts.
Loyola Marymount University Academics
LMU is known for its strong liberal arts foundation, with a focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. The university boasts a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, allowing for personalized attention and opportunities for research and collaboration. LMU also values experiential learning through internships, study abroad programs, and service learning.
University of Kentucky Academics
The University of Kentucky places a strong emphasis on research and offers many opportunities for undergraduate students to get involved in research projects. UK has a student-faculty ratio of 16:1, providing opportunities for close interaction with faculty. Additionally, the university offers various study abroad and internship opportunities for students to gain valuable experience.
Loyola Marymount University Diversity
Loyola Marymount University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. In Fall 2020, the undergraduate population was 36% White, 29% Hispanic/Latino, 13% Asian, 4% Black, and 18% multiracial or other. The university offers various programs and resources to support diversity and inclusion, such as the Ethnic and Intercultural Services office.
University of Kentucky Diversity
The University of Kentucky has a diverse student population, with students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. In Fall 2020, the undergraduate population was 73% White, 8% Black, 4% Hispanic/Latino, 2% Asian, and 13% other or unknown. UK offers multiple programs and resources, such as the Office for Institutional Diversity, to support an inclusive campus environment.
Loyola Marymount University Students
LMU has a total enrollment of approximately 9,700 students, with about 6,700 undergraduates and 3,000 graduate students. The university offers various clubs and organizations, Greek life, and community service opportunities for students to get involved in campus life. On-campus housing is guaranteed for first-year students, and 73% of undergraduates choose to live on campus.
University of Kentucky Students
The University of Kentucky has a larger student population, with over 31,000 total students, including about 23,000 undergraduates and 8,000 graduate students. UK offers a vibrant campus life with over 500 clubs and organizations, Greek life, and a strong athletics program. On-campus housing is available for students, with approximately 30% of undergraduate students living on campus.
Loyola Marymount University Campus
LMU is situated on a picturesque 142-acre campus overlooking Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including the William H. Hannon Library and the LMU Playa Vista Campus, which houses the School of Film and Television. LMU’s campus is known for its sustainability efforts and commitment to environmental stewardship.
University of Kentucky Campus
The University of Kentucky’s sprawling 814-acre campus is located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky. The campus features modern facilities, such as the recently renovated Gatton College of Business and Economics building and the state-of-the-art Jacobs Science Building. UK maintains a commitment to sustainability and green initiatives throughout its campus.
Loyola Marymount University Alumni
LMU boasts a strong alumni network of over 50,000 members, many of whom have gone on to find success in various fields. Notable LMU alumni include filmmaker James Gunn, retired NBA player Bo Kimble, and actress Busy Philipps.
University of Kentucky Alumni
The University of Kentucky has a large and active alumni network of over 200,000 members. Notable UK alumni include actress Ashley Judd, former NBA player and coach Pat Riley, and author Wendell Berry.
Loyola Marymount University Rankings
According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 rankings, Loyola Marymount University is ranked #66 among National Universities and #22 in Best Undergraduate Teaching.
University of Kentucky Rankings
In the same 2021 rankings, the University of Kentucky is ranked #133 among National Universities and #63 among Top Public Schools.
Loyola Marymount University Outcomes
Graduates of LMU have a strong record of successful outcomes, with a 91% overall placement rate for the class of 2019, including employment, graduate school, and service opportunities. The average starting salary for LMU graduates is $57,000.
University of Kentucky Outcomes
The University of Kentucky also has a solid record of post-graduation success, with an 86% overall placement rate for the class of 2019. The average starting salary for UK graduates is $49,000.
Loyola Marymount University vs University of Kentucky Cost Comparison
When comparing the cost of attendance, Loyola Marymount University’s tuition and fees are significantly higher than those at the University of Kentucky, especially for in-state students. However, both institutions offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help minimize the financial burden for students and their families.
Loyola Marymount University vs University of Kentucky Admissions Difficulty
Loyola Marymount University has a more selective admissions process than the University of Kentucky, with a lower acceptance rate and higher average SAT and ACT scores for accepted students. This may make it more challenging for some students to gain admission to LMU.
Loyola Marymount University vs University of Kentucky Academic Difficulty
Both institutions offer rigorous academic programs, but Loyola Marymount University’s smaller student-faculty ratio and strong liberal arts foundation may provide more personalized attention and opportunities for research and collaboration. The University of Kentucky, however, places a strong emphasis on research and offers a broader range of programs and resources.
Loyola Marymount University vs University of Kentucky Outcome Comparison
Both Loyola Marymount University and the University of Kentucky have high post-graduation placement rates and successful outcomes for their graduates. However, LMU graduates tend to have a slightly higher average starting salary than UK grad