Sacred Heart University vs University of New Haven (UNH)

Sacred Heart University and University of New Haven, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in Connecticut, offer distinct educational experiences. Sacred Heart, with an acceptance rate of 85%, boasts a diverse student body, with 48% male and 52% female students. Its popular majors include Business, Health Professions, and Psychology. On the other hand, University of New Haven, with a slightly lower acceptance rate of 78%, has a more balanced gender ratio, with 49% male and 51% female students. Its popular majors include Business, Engineering, and Criminal Justice. While Sacred Heart has a higher graduation rate of 75%, University of New Haven offers a more affordable education, with an average net price of $27,656 compared to Sacred Heart's $36,912. Explore the detailed comparison table below to discover more key differences and make an informed decision about your academic journey.
Sacred Heart University logo

Sacred Heart University

University of New Haven logo

University of New Haven

Overview

Location Fairfield, Connecticut West Haven, Connecticut
Campus setting Suburb: 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 86.0% 76.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation Catholic

Admission

Acceptance rate 66.1% 94.1%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $75
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
SAT range N/A 1100 - 1280
ACT range N/A 25 - 29
Students submitting SAT score 25.0%
Students submitting ACT score 3.0%
Total number of applicants 12,663 10,272
Total number of admissions given out 8,373 9,669
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,842 1,277
Yield rate 22.0% 13.2%
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 $60,042 $60,046
Average net price $43,907 $33,323
Tuition $44,960 $41,370
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $11,500

Meal plan: $5,454
Room/dormitory: $10,980

Meal plan: $6,280
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

99.0%
Average amount $19,690
100.0%
Average amount $25,407
Students receiving federal student loan 63.0%
Average amount $5,366
95.0%
Average amount $5,776
Students taking out private loans 16.0%
Average amount $28,281
22.0%
Average amount $22,327

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 6,761
Men 32.6% Women 67.4%
5,023
Men 43.7% Women 56.3%
Graduate students 3,024
Men 25.8% Women 74.2%
2,490
Men 51.9% Women 48.1%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 78.1% 58.2%
International students 3.4% 16.5%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Large Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity 3,434 2,803
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from New York Connecticut New Jersey Mississippi Rhode Island Connecticut New York New Jersey Mississippi Pennsylvania

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Public Administration and Social Service
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Psychology
Students to faculty ratio 14:1 16:1
Institutional accreditation New England Commission on Higher Education New England Commission on Higher Education

Outcome

Graduation rate 73.5% 66.1%
Dropout rate 26.0% 33.5%
Transferred out N/A N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
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
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,009
  • Year 2: $62,012
  • Year 3: $77,839
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,229
  • Year 2: $67,995
  • Year 3: $76,095
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,627
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $72,026
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,737
  • Year 2: $63,997
  • Year 3: $71,869
Civil Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $65,486
  • Year 3: $69,507
Dental Support Services and Allied Professions (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,944
  • Year 2: $58,673
  • Year 3: $68,768
Fire Protection (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,156
  • Year 2: $48,682
  • Year 3: $58,959
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,260
  • Year 2: $47,930
  • Year 3: $55,128
Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $37,951
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $54,168
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $41,544
  • Year 2: $42,682
  • Year 3: $52,977

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Sacred Heart University (SHU) and the University of New Haven (UNH)?

    Sacred Heart University, rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, offers a strong liberal arts foundation alongside professional programs. The University of New Haven, on the other hand, is known for its career-focused approach, particularly in areas like engineering, criminal justice, and business. SHU tends to emphasize a more holistic student experience with a focus on community service, while UNH prioritizes hands-on learning and industry connections.

  • How do the academic programs at Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven compare?

    Sacred Heart University excels in programs like nursing, education, and business, with a growing emphasis on health sciences. The University of New Haven is recognized for its strong programs in engineering, criminal justice, forensic science, and business administration. While both offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, UNH has a stronger reputation in technical and applied fields, while SHU is known for its liberal arts and health-related disciplines.

  • What is the campus environment like at Sacred Heart University versus the University of New Haven?

    Sacred Heart University has a more traditional, suburban campus setting with a strong sense of community. It's known for its active student life and numerous clubs and organizations. The University of New Haven's campus is also suburban but has a more urban feel due to its proximity to the city of West Haven. UNH's campus is generally considered more commuter-friendly, while SHU fosters a more residential experience.

  • How do the costs of attending Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven compare?

    Tuition and fees at both Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven are relatively comparable, but it's important to check the most current figures on their respective websites. Consider the overall cost of attendance, including room and board, books, and other expenses. Both universities offer financial aid and scholarships, so explore those options to determine the most affordable choice for you.

  • What are the admission requirements for Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven?

    Both Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven require a completed application, high school transcripts, and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), although test-optional policies may be in place. They also consider factors like GPA, class rank, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Check each university's admission website for specific requirements and deadlines, as they may vary.

  • What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven?

    Both universities offer career services to help students with resume writing, interview skills, and job searching. The University of New Haven places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and boasts strong industry connections, particularly in its areas of specialization. Sacred Heart University also provides internship opportunities and career counseling, with a growing network of employers in the region.

  • What is the student-faculty ratio at Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven?

    Both Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven maintain relatively small student-faculty ratios, allowing for more personalized attention and interaction with professors. Check the latest data on their websites for the most up-to-date figures, but expect ratios that facilitate a supportive learning environment at both institutions.

  • What kind of student life and extracurricular activities are available at Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven?

    Sacred Heart University offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and Division I athletics. There's a strong emphasis on community involvement and service learning. The University of New Haven also has a wide range of clubs and organizations, as well as Division II athletics. UNH's location provides easy access to cultural and entertainment options in the surrounding area.

  • How do Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven support diversity and inclusion?

    Both Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven are committed to fostering diverse and inclusive campus environments. They offer various programs and initiatives to support students from different backgrounds and promote understanding and respect. Check their websites for specific details on diversity and inclusion efforts.

  • Which university is better for students interested in a specific religious affiliation?

    Sacred Heart University, as a Catholic university, integrates its religious identity into its campus culture and offers opportunities for spiritual growth. While the University of New Haven is not religiously affiliated, it welcomes students of all faiths and provides resources for religious expression.

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