Choosing the right university is a critical decision that can impact a student’s academic success and future career. This article aims to compare two popular universities, the University of Dayton and Northern Arizona University, to help you make an informed choice. We will explore each institution’s overview, costs and tuition, admissions, degrees offered, academics, diversity, students, campus, alumni, rankings, and outcomes.
University of Dayton Overview
The University of Dayton (UD) is a private, Catholic research university located in Dayton, Ohio. Established in 1850, UD is one of the largest private universities in Ohio and is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and experiential learning. The campus spans over 388 acres and offers a vibrant and welcoming environment for students. UD is committed to academic excellence, with a focus on innovation and community engagement.
University of Dayton Costs & Tuition
Tuition at the University of Dayton for the 2021-2022 academic year is $44,100 for full-time undergraduate students. This does not include room, board, and other fees, which can bring the total cost to approximately $63,000 per year. However, UD offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, to help offset these costs for eligible students.
University of Dayton Admissions
Admission to the University of Dayton is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 72%. Prospective students are required to submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1130 to 1310, while the average ACT score is between 24 and 30.
University of Dayton Degrees Offered
The University of Dayton offers over 80 undergraduate programs, 50 master’s programs, and 12 doctoral programs. Popular areas of study include engineering, business, education, and the arts and sciences. UD also offers various online and hybrid programs for students seeking flexible learning options.
University of Dayton Academics
UD is committed to providing a high-quality education, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, ensuring that students receive personalized attention from instructors. The university also has a strong focus on experiential learning, with numerous opportunities for internships, co-ops, and research projects.
University of Dayton Diversity
The University of Dayton is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive campus community. Approximately 15% of the undergraduate population identify as students of color, and the university enrolls students from over 60 countries. UD offers numerous resources and support services for underrepresented students, including the Office of Multicultural Affairs and various student organizations.
University of Dayton Students
UD has a total enrollment of over 11,000 students, including more than 8,000 undergraduates. The university offers a vibrant campus life, with over 200 student clubs and organizations, a strong athletics program, and numerous events throughout the year. Students also have access to various amenities, including state-of-the-art academic and recreational facilities, dining options, and on-campus housing.
University of Dayton Campus
The University of Dayton’s picturesque campus covers 388 acres and features modern academic buildings, residence halls, and athletic facilities alongside historical landmarks. The campus is known for its beautiful green spaces and striking architecture. Students can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a recreation complex, the University of Dayton Research Institute, and the Marian Library.
University of Dayton Alumni
UD has a strong alumni network of over 120,000 graduates worldwide. Notable alumni include Jon Gruden, former NFL head coach and ESPN analyst; Dan Patrick, host of “The Dan Patrick Show”; and Erma Bombeck, renowned humorist and columnist.
University of Dayton Rankings
The University of Dayton is consistently ranked among the top national universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report. In 2021, UD was ranked #133 in National Universities and #38 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs.
University of Dayton Outcomes
Graduates of the University of Dayton have a strong record of success, with a 95% placement rate within six months of graduation. UD alumni are employed in a variety of industries, including healthcare, business, education, and technology, with a median starting salary of $50,000.
Northern Arizona University Overview
Northern Arizona University (NAU) is a public research university located in Flagstaff, Arizona. Founded in 1899, NAU has grown to become a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation, as well as its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship. With a scenic campus surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of northern Arizona, NAU provides a unique educational experience for its students.
Northern Arizona University Costs & Tuition
Tuition at Northern Arizona University for the 2021-2022 academic year is $11,896 for in-state undergraduate students and $26,516 for out-of-state students. This does not include room, board, and additional fees, which can bring the total cost to approximately $29,000 for in-state students and $43,600 for out-of-state students. Financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, are available to help eligible students cover these costs.
Northern Arizona University Admissions
Admission to Northern Arizona University is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of around 85%. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. The average SAT score for admitted students is between 1040 and 1250, while the average ACT score ranges from 20 to 26.
Northern Arizona University Degrees Offered
NAU offers over 150 undergraduate programs, 100 graduate programs, and various online and distance learning options. Popular areas of study include business, education, health and human services, and the arts and sciences. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental studies.
Northern Arizona University Academics
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1, NAU provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for its students. The university emphasizes experiential learning, offering numerous opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on projects.
Northern Arizona University Diversity
Northern Arizona University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. Approximately 42% of the undergraduate population identify as students of color, and the university enrolls students from over 80 countries. NAU offers various resources and programs to support underrepresented students, including the Office of Inclusion and the Multicultural Student Center.
Northern Arizona University Students
NAU has a total enrollment of over 31,000 students, including more than 25,000 undergraduates. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 400 student clubs and organizations, a robust athletics program, and numerous events throughout the year. Students can also take advantage of on-campus amenities, such as academic and recreational facilities, dining options, and housing.
Northern Arizona University Campus
Northern Arizona University’s 738-acre campus is located in the picturesque city of Flagstaff, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of northern Arizona. The campus features modern academic buildings, residence halls, and athletic facilities, as well as beautiful outdoor spaces for students to enjoy. Notable campus amenities include the Cline Library, the J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome, and the NAU Art Museum.
Northern Arizona University Alumni
NAU has a strong alumni network of over 170,000 graduates worldwide. Some notable alumni include Seamus Dever, actor known for his role on the TV show “Castle”; James Turrell, renowned artist; and Raul Grijalva, U.S. Congressman from Arizona.
Northern Arizona University Rankings
Northern Arizona University is consistently ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News & World Report. In 2021, NAU was ranked #284 in National Universities and #144 in Top Public Schools.
Northern Arizona University Outcomes
Graduates of Northern Arizona University have a solid record of success, with an 84% placement rate within six months of graduation. NAU alumni work in various industries, including education, healthcare, business, and technology, with a median starting salary of $42,000.
University of Dayton vs Northern Arizona University Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending the University of Dayton and Northern Arizona University, it’s important to consider both tuition and additional expenses, such as room, board, and fees. For the 2021-2022 academic year, tuition at UD is $44,100 for full-time undergraduate students, while tuition at NAU is $11,896 for in-state students and $26,516 for out-of-state students. Including additional costs, the total cost of attendance at UD is approximately $63,000 per year, while the total cost at NAU is approximately $29,000 for in-state students and $43,600 for out-of-state students.
Both universities offer financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, to help eligible students offset these costs. However, students should carefully evaluate their financial situation and consider the long-term investment in their education when making a decision.
University of Dayton vs Northern Arizona University Admissions Difficulty
Admissions at both the University of Dayton and Northern Arizona University are moderately competitive. UD has an acceptance rate of around 72%, while NAU has an acceptance rate of around 85%. Both universities require applicants to submit high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation.
The average SAT score for admitted students at UD ranges from 1130 to 1310, while the average score at NAU is between 1040 and 1250. Similarly, the average ACT score for admitted students at UD is between 24 and 30, while the average score at NAU ranges from 20 to 26.
University of Dayton vs Northern Arizona University Academic Difficulty
Both the University of Dayton and Northern Arizona University are committed to providing high-quality education and engaging learning environments for their students. UD has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, while NAU has a slightly higher ratio of 19:1. Both universities emphasize experiential learning, with numerous opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on projects.
While the specific level of academic difficulty may vary depending on the program and individual student, both universities offer support services, such as tutoring, academic advising, and career development, to help students succeed academically.
University of Dayton vs Northern Arizona University Outcome Comparison
When comparing the outcomes of attending the University of Dayton and Northern Arizona University, it’s essential to consider factors such as placement rates, starting salaries, and alumni success. Graduates of UD have a 95% placement rate within six months of graduation, with a median starting salary of $50,000. NAU graduates have an 84% placement rate within the same time frame, with a median starting salary of $42,000.
Both universities have strong alumni networks and notable graduates who have found success in various industries. Ultimately, the outcome of your university experience will depend on your individual goals, academic performance, and the opportunities you pursue during your time at either institution.
