Florida Tech vs Stetson University

Florida Institute of Technology and Stetson University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in Florida, offer distinct educational experiences. Florida Tech, renowned for its STEM programs, boasts a lower acceptance rate and a higher graduation rate compared to Stetson. Its student body is predominantly male, with a significant international presence. Stetson, on the other hand, excels in liberal arts and pre-professional programs, with a higher acceptance rate and a diverse student body. Its location in DeLand provides a charming small-town atmosphere. Explore the detailed comparison table to discover more about these universities' unique strengths, including popular majors, student demographics, and financial aid opportunities, to help you make an informed decision about your academic journey.

	Florida Institute of Technology	Stetson University
Overview
Location	Melbourne, Florida	DeLand, Florida
Campus setting	City: Small	City: Small
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system	Semester	Semester
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	82.0%	72.0%
Common app member	Yes	Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	65.9%	91.6%
Application fees	$50	Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $50
SAT range	1140 - 1340	1090 - 1295
ACT range	24 - 30	22 - 29
Students submitting SAT score	68.0%	20.0%
Students submitting ACT score	30.0%	11.0%
Total number of applicants	10,650	9,260
Total number of admissions given out	7,016	8,486
Admitted students who chose to enroll	756	637
Yield rate	10.8%	7.5%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A	N/A
High school GPA	Required	Required
Recommendation letters	Not required	Required
High school transcript	Not required	Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	Required

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$61,442	$69,910
Average net price	$32,314	$20,278
Tuition	$42,346	$50,440
Room & board	Room/dormitory: $7,416 Meal plan: $5,980	Room/dormitory: $8,730 Meal plan: $6,180
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	92.0% Average amount $25,807	100.0% Average amount $42,590
Students receiving federal student loan	48.0% Average amount $5,481	61.0% Average amount $5,492
Students taking out private loans	11.0% Average amount $24,026	8.0% Average amount $18,017

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	3,491 Men 69.4% Women 30.6%	2,876 Men 43.4% Women 56.6%
Graduate students	4,339 Men 35.7% Women 64.3%	1,381 Men 43.2% Women 56.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Low	Low
Out-of-state students	54.8%	19.9%
International students	19.3%	4.8%
Campus local/setting	City: Small	City: Small
Dormitory capacity	2,017	2,052
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	Florida New York New Jersey Maryland Pennsylvania	Florida Georgia New York North Carolina Pennsylvania

Academics
Popular study areas	Engineering Psychology Business Transportation and Logistics Computer and Information Science	Legal Profession Business Visual & Performing Arts Psychology Education
Students to faculty ratio	14:1	12:1
Institutional accreditation	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome
Graduation rate	66.3%	63.3%
Dropout rate	32.8%	36.7%
Transferred out	N/A	N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Information Science/Studies (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $58,395 Year 2: $67,660 Year 3: $85,054 Engineering-Related Fields (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $98,500 Year 2: N/A Year 3: $83,998 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $71,306 Year 2: $75,787 Year 3: $81,479 Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $67,475 Year 2: $67,324 Year 3: $80,057 Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $64,264 Year 2: $65,557 Year 3: $79,253 Air Transportation (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $61,064 Year 3: $77,183 Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $66,682 Year 2: $65,486 Year 3: $76,785 Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $67,184 Year 2: $69,338 Year 3: $74,804 Management Information Systems and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $76,992 Year 2: $63,997 Year 3: $73,267 Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $67,647 Year 2: N/A Year 3: $71,506	Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $65,241 Year 2: $62,260 Year 3: $75,678 Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $59,894 Year 2: $56,867 Year 3: $72,879 Law (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: $47,613 Year 2: $54,371 Year 3: $67,603 Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $51,146 Year 2: $54,751 Year 3: $58,666 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $46,408 Year 2: $48,667 Year 3: $57,737 Law (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $60,372 Year 2: $61,020 Year 3: $54,912 Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $32,915 Year 2: $37,748 Year 3: $49,477 Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $30,620 Year 2: $25,194 Year 3: $49,207 Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $34,037 Year 2: $39,009 Year 3: $45,487 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $40,014 Year 2: $42,012 Year 3: $45,204

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary academic strengths of Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) compared to Stetson University?

FIT excels in STEM fields, particularly engineering, aviation, and space sciences. It offers strong programs in these areas, often with hands-on research opportunities and industry connections. Stetson University, on the other hand, is known for its strong liberal arts programs, including law, business, and music. It emphasizes a well-rounded education with a focus on critical thinking and communication skills.
How does the campus environment differ between FIT and Stetson?

FIT has a more technical and focused campus environment, reflecting its STEM emphasis. It's located near the Kennedy Space Center, providing unique opportunities for students in related fields. Stetson offers a more traditional, residential college experience with a beautiful, historic campus in DeLand, Florida. It fosters a strong sense of community and a vibrant social scene.
What is the cost of attendance like at FIT versus Stetson University?

The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and room and board, can vary. Generally, both institutions are considered private universities, and therefore, the cost of attendance is relatively high. However, financial aid packages, scholarships, and merit-based awards can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expenses. It's recommended to check the specific tuition and fees for the current academic year on each university's website and compare the financial aid offers you receive.
How do the student populations and campus cultures compare?

FIT's student body is often more focused on STEM fields, with a significant international student population. The culture is driven by innovation and practical application of knowledge. Stetson has a more diverse student body with a strong emphasis on the liberal arts and a more traditional college experience. The campus culture is known for its emphasis on community engagement, leadership development, and artistic expression.
What are the career prospects like for graduates of FIT and Stetson?

FIT graduates are well-prepared for careers in engineering, aviation, aerospace, and related technical fields, often finding employment with major aerospace companies and government agencies. Stetson graduates are successful in a variety of fields, including law, business, education, and the arts. The university's strong alumni network and career services support students in their job searches and career development.
How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

FIT's location on Florida's Space Coast provides unique opportunities for internships, research, and networking in the aerospace industry. The proximity to beaches and outdoor activities is also a draw. Stetson's location in DeLand offers a more traditional college town experience, with easy access to Orlando and its attractions, as well as the beaches. The area provides a blend of cultural and recreational opportunities.
What are the research opportunities like at FIT and Stetson?

FIT offers extensive research opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. Students can participate in cutting-edge research projects with faculty, often leading to publications and presentations. Stetson also provides research opportunities, particularly in the liberal arts and sciences. Students can work with faculty on research projects, participate in undergraduate research symposia, and gain valuable research experience.
How do the admission requirements differ between FIT and Stetson?

Both universities require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and transcripts. However, admission requirements can vary slightly. FIT often places a greater emphasis on math and science coursework, reflecting its STEM focus. Stetson may consider a broader range of factors, including extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation, to assess a student's overall profile.
What are the extracurricular activities and student life options at FIT and Stetson?

FIT offers a wide range of student clubs and organizations, including those related to engineering, aviation, and other STEM fields. There are also opportunities for sports, recreation, and social activities. Stetson has a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and Greek life options. The university also offers a variety of intramural sports, performing arts programs, and community service opportunities.
Which university is better for a student interested in pre-law or business?

Stetson University is generally considered the stronger choice for students interested in pre-law, as it has a highly-regarded law school and a strong pre-law program. Stetson's business school is also well-regarded. While FIT offers some business-related programs, Stetson's programs are more established and comprehensive in these areas.

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