Introduction
For students navigating the competitive world of higher education, choosing the right university can be a daunting task. Two highly regarded institutions that consistently rank among the nation’s top liberal arts colleges are Fordham University and Lehigh University. While both universities offer esteemed programs and a wealth of opportunities, they exhibit distinct characteristics that may influence a student’s decision. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of Fordham University and Lehigh University, examining their academic offerings, campus life, and overall value, to help prospective students make an informed choice.
Academic Offerings
Undergraduate Programs
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Fordham University: Offers over 60 undergraduate majors across five schools: Fordham College at Lincoln Center, Fordham College of Rose Hill, Gabelli School of Business, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, and the Thomas More College of Liberal Arts. Popular majors include Business Administration, Psychology, and Communication.
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Lehigh University: Provides over 50 undergraduate majors through four colleges: College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Economics, College of Education, and P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. Engineering, Business, and Biological Sciences are highly sought-after programs.
Graduate and Professional Programs
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Fordham University: Offers over 30 graduate programs in various disciplines, including Business Administration, Law, Social Work, and Education. The Fordham Law School and the Gabelli School of Business are particularly renowned.
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Lehigh University: Provides over 70 graduate programs, including Engineering, Business, and Education. The College of Business and Economics offers specialized programs in areas such as Data Analytics and Supply Chain Management.
Campus Life
Location
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Fordham University: Located in the vibrant Lincoln Center and Rose Hill neighborhoods of New York City, Fordham offers students access to a world-class metropolis with an abundance of cultural, entertainment, and internship opportunities.
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Lehigh University: Situated on a picturesque 1,600-acre campus in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh provides a tranquil and spacious environment while being within driving distance of major cities like Philadelphia and New York City.
Student Life
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Fordham University: Hosts a diverse student body of over 8,000 undergraduates and 4,000 graduate students. There are over 250 student clubs and organizations, including a thriving arts scene and a strong athletic program with Division I teams.
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Lehigh University: Enrolls around 5,000 undergraduates and 2,000 graduate students. Campus life is rich with over 200 student organizations, including fraternities and sororities, and a competitive Division I football team.
Overall Value
Cost and Financial Aid
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Fordham University: Tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are approximately $58,000. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), Fordham provides financial aid to over 60% of its undergraduate students, with an average aid package of $39,000.
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Lehigh University: Tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are around $66,000. Lehigh offers financial aid to over 80% of its undergraduate students, with an average aid package of $45,000.
Career Outcomes
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Fordham University: Graduates enjoy a strong track record of success in the job market. According to PayScale, the median salary for Fordham alumni is $89,000 five years after graduation.
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Lehigh University: Lehigh graduates are highly sought-after by employers. The university reports that 98% of graduates secure employment or further their education within six months of graduation.
Conclusion
Both Fordham University and Lehigh University are excellent institutions that offer students a transformative educational experience. The decision between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and goals. Fordham University provides an immersive urban experience with access to countless opportunities in the heart of New York City. Lehigh University, on the other hand, offers a serene campus setting with a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit both campuses, attend virtual events, and connect with current students and alumni to gain a better understanding of each university’s unique offerings. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this comparison, students can make an informed decision that will set them on the path to success.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Between Fordham and Lehigh
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Relying solely on rankings: While rankings can be helpful, they should not be the only factor considered. It’s crucial to research individual programs, campus culture, and the location that best suits your needs.
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Ignoring financial aid: The cost of higher education can be daunting. Thoroughly explore financial aid options and compare the net cost (after aid) of both universities.
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Falling for stereotypes: Don’t make assumptions based on preconceived notions or stereotypes. Visit both campuses and interact with the students and faculty to get a firsthand impression.
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Overlooking campus culture: Campus life is an essential part of the college experience. Attend campus events and connect with student ambassadors to understand the social and cultural environment.
How to Step-by-Step Approach to Choosing Between Fordham and Lehigh
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Gather information: Explore the official websites, attend virtual events, and connect with current students and alumni of both universities.
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Compare academic offerings: Research the programs that interest you and consider the strength and reputation of each university in those fields.
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Visit the campuses: Experience the campus atmosphere, meet with faculty and students, and attend classes to get a firsthand glimpse of the educational environment.
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Weigh the pros and cons: Create a list of the advantages and disadvantages of each university based on your priorities and preferences.
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Make an informed decision: After carefully considering all the factors, make a decision that aligns with your aspirations and goals.
FAQs
Is Fordham University more prestigious than Lehigh University?
Both Fordham University and Lehigh University are highly ranked and respected institutions with strong academic reputations. Their prestige may vary depending on the specific field of study and program.
Is Lehigh University better for engineering than Fordham University?
Lehigh University is renowned for its engineering programs, particularly in the areas of chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering. However, Fordham University also offers a solid engineering program with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and practical experience.
Which university is more affordable for out-of-state students?
Lehigh University offers a more generous financial aid package to out-of-state students, with an average aid award of $45,000 compared to Fordham University’s average aid award of $39,000.
Which university has a more diverse student body?
Fordham University has a more diverse student body, with a higher percentage of international students and students of color compared to Lehigh University.