Pace University vs Sacred Heart University

Pace University and Sacred Heart University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning, offer distinct educational experiences. Pace University, with its campuses in New York City and Westchester County, boasts a diverse student body and a wide range of academic programs, including business, nursing, and computer science. Sacred Heart University, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, prides itself on its strong liberal arts foundation and popular majors in health sciences, business, and education. While Pace University has a higher acceptance rate, Sacred Heart University maintains a slightly smaller student body, fostering a close-knit community. Both universities boast impressive graduation rates, preparing students for successful careers in their chosen fields. Explore the detailed comparison table to discover more about these universities' unique offerings and make an informed decision that aligns with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Pace University logo

Pace University

Sacred Heart University logo

Sacred Heart University

Overview

Location New York, New York Fairfield, Connecticut
Campus setting City: Large Suburb: Large
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 75.0% 86.0%
Common app member No Yes
Religious affiliation Catholic

Admission

Acceptance rate 87.6% 66.1%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $70
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $75
SAT range 1120 - 1310 N/A
ACT range 23 - 28 N/A
Students submitting SAT score 20.0%
Students submitting ACT score 5.0%
Total number of applicants 24,795 12,663
Total number of admissions given out 21,726 8,373
Admitted students who chose to enroll 2,203 1,842
Yield rate 10.1% 22.0%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Required Required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $73,810 $60,042
Average net price $30,632 $43,907
Tuition $46,978 $44,960
Room & board $19,682
Room/dormitory: $11,500

Meal plan: $5,454
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

98.0%
Average amount $32,068
99.0%
Average amount $19,690
Students receiving federal student loan 55.0%
Average amount $5,670
63.0%
Average amount $5,366
Students taking out private loans 8.0%
Average amount $23,331
16.0%
Average amount $28,281

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 8,260
Men 34.3% Women 65.7%
6,761
Men 32.6% Women 67.4%
Graduate students 5,219
Men 34.9% Women 65.1%
3,024
Men 25.8% Women 74.2%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Low
Out-of-state students N/A 78.1%
International students 12.4% 3.4%
Campus local/setting City: Large Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity 3,558 3,434
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from N/A New York Connecticut New Jersey Mississippi Rhode Island

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Visual & Performing Arts
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Public Administration and Social Service
  • Communication and Journalism
Students to faculty ratio 15:1 14:1
Institutional accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education New England Commission on Higher Education

Outcome

Graduation rate 59.1% 73.5%
Dropout rate 13.5% 26.0%
Transferred out 26.8% N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $124,271
  • Year 3: $152,201
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $117,088
  • Year 2: $113,139
  • Year 3: $118,654
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $118,294
  • Year 2: $107,614
  • Year 3: $117,301
Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,760
  • Year 2: $88,639
  • Year 3: $99,483
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,622
  • Year 2: $90,727
  • Year 3: $95,275
Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $76,358
  • Year 2: $74,200
  • Year 3: $87,407
Taxation (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $74,698
  • Year 2: $77,536
  • Year 3: $86,310
Computer Software and Media Applications (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,512
  • Year 2: $74,576
  • Year 3: $86,085
Information Science/Studies (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,963
  • Year 2: $72,828
  • Year 3: $82,231
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,452
  • Year 2: $67,593
  • Year 3: $79,100
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $94,278
  • Year 2: $92,829
  • Year 3: $100,493
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $73,676
  • Year 2: $73,949
  • Year 3: $93,313
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,919
  • Year 2: $66,653
  • Year 3: $82,778
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,350
  • Year 2: $74,929
  • Year 3: $78,642
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,605
  • Year 2: $74,652
  • Year 3: $77,798
Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $79,954
  • Year 2: $69,338
  • Year 3: $77,726
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,263
  • Year 2: $71,202
  • Year 3: $73,047
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $67,979
  • Year 2: $66,989
  • Year 3: $67,313
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,445
  • Year 2: $58,221
  • Year 3: $66,212
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,788
  • Year 2: $56,641
  • Year 3: $65,392

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary academic differences between Pace University and Sacred Heart University?

    Pace University, located in New York City, offers a broader range of programs, particularly strong in business, law, and performing arts, leveraging its urban location for internships and career opportunities. Sacred Heart University, situated in Fairfield, Connecticut, emphasizes a more traditional liberal arts education with a focus on health sciences, education, and business, often with a stronger sense of community and campus life.

  • How does the location of each university impact the student experience?

    Pace University's location in New York City provides unparalleled access to internships, cultural events, and a diverse job market. Students benefit from the city's vibrant atmosphere and numerous opportunities. Sacred Heart University, in a suburban setting, offers a more traditional college experience with a close-knit community, a focus on campus activities, and easier access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding area.

  • What are the key differences in campus life and student activities?

    Sacred Heart University generally fosters a stronger sense of campus community with a more active social scene, including Greek life and a wide array of on-campus events. Pace University, while offering student activities, has a more dispersed campus life due to its urban setting, with students often engaging in activities and internships throughout the city. Pace students also have access to a wider variety of off-campus activities and events.

  • Which university is generally considered more affordable?

    Tuition and fees can vary, but generally, both universities have similar costs. However, the overall cost of attendance, including living expenses, may differ. Pace University's location in New York City can lead to higher living costs compared to Sacred Heart University's suburban setting. Financial aid packages and scholarships should be carefully reviewed for both institutions to determine the most affordable option for your individual circumstances.

  • How do the career services at Pace University and Sacred Heart University compare?

    Both universities offer career services, but the focus and opportunities differ. Pace University's career services are heavily influenced by its location in New York City, providing extensive access to internships and job opportunities in various industries, particularly in business, media, and the arts. Sacred Heart University's career services focus on industries prevalent in the Connecticut area, such as healthcare, education, and finance, with a strong emphasis on networking and career preparation.

  • What are the strengths of the faculty at each university?

    Pace University faculty often include experienced professionals and practitioners in their respective fields, bringing real-world experience to the classroom, especially in areas like business and performing arts. Sacred Heart University faculty are known for their dedication to teaching and student mentorship, fostering a supportive learning environment with a focus on personalized attention and academic advising.

  • How do the admission requirements differ between Pace University and Sacred Heart University?

    Admission requirements are generally similar, including high school transcripts, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies are common), letters of recommendation, and essays. However, specific requirements and the emphasis placed on different aspects of the application may vary. It's essential to check the specific requirements for each university on their respective websites, as they can change from year to year.

  • Which university is better for students interested in specific fields of study?

    Pace University is a strong choice for students interested in business, law, performing arts, and media, given its location and industry connections. Sacred Heart University is well-suited for students interested in health sciences, education, and business, with a focus on a more traditional liberal arts education and a strong sense of community.

  • What are the housing options like at each university?

    Pace University offers a variety of on-campus housing options, primarily in its New York City campuses, catering to different preferences and budgets. Sacred Heart University provides a range of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls, suites, and apartments, fostering a strong residential community.

  • How do the athletic programs compare at Pace University and Sacred Heart University?

    Sacred Heart University has a more prominent athletic program, competing in NCAA Division I with a wider range of sports and a more developed athletic culture. Pace University also has athletic programs, but they are generally smaller and have a lower profile compared to Sacred Heart's. The level of athletic involvement and school spirit is typically higher at Sacred Heart.

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