Fairfield University Undergraduate Student Demographics: A Comprehensive Overview

Fairfield University, a private Jesuit university in Fairfield, Connecticut, established in 1942, has grown into a diverse academic community. This article provides a detailed look at the undergraduate student demographics of Fairfield University, covering various aspects such as enrollment, race and ethnicity, gender distribution, geographic diversity, age distribution, and financial aid.

Historical Context and Overview

Fairfield University's journey began in 1942 when the Society of Jesus acquired land to establish a Jesuit high school and college. Officially founded that year, the institution was initially named Fairfield University of St. Robert Bellarmine. In 1945, the State of Connecticut granted the university the right to award degrees. The university became co-educational in 1970, admitting its first undergraduate class of women. As of 2023, Fairfield University hosts approximately 5,000 full-time undergraduate students and 1,200 graduate students. The university is composed of five schools and colleges: the Fairfield University College of Arts and Sciences, the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, the School of Education and Human Development, the School of Engineering and Computing, and the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies.

Total Enrollment and Student Status

In the fall of 2023, Fairfield University had a total undergraduate enrollment of 4,968 students. The total enrollment at Fairfield University in 2023, both undergraduate and graduate, is 6,289 students; 5,528 are enrolled full-time, and 761 are part-time. This signifies that 87.9% of students are enrolled full-time, compared to the average of 68.2% at similar Masters Colleges and Universities.

Race and Ethnicity

The racial and ethnic composition of Fairfield University's student body reflects a predominantly white population, with increasing representation from other groups. As of 2023, the enrolled student population at Fairfield University, including both undergraduate and graduate students, is:

White: 77.6% (4,878 students)
Hispanic or Latino: 8.28% (521 students)
Asian: 2.35% (148 students)
Black or African American: 2.26% (142 students)
Two or More Races: 1.8%
American Indian or Alaska Native: 0.0636%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders: 0.0318%

Comparatively, the enrollment for all Masters Colleges and Universities is 50.1% White, 17.7% Hispanic or Latino, and 13.4% Black or African American.

Read also: Fairfield Career Guide

Gender Distribution

Fairfield University demonstrates a notable gender distribution among its graduates. In 2023, 1,160 degrees were awarded to women, while 829 degrees were awarded to men. This indicates that 58.3% of degrees were awarded to women, and 41.7% to men.

The most common race/ethnicity and sex grouping at Fairfield University is white female (826 degrees awarded). There were 1.38 times more white female recipients than the next closest race/ethnicity group, white male (600 degrees).

Geographic Diversity

Fairfield University attracts students from various locations, contributing to its geographic diversity. College Factual's diversity report indicates that Fairfield University ranks 464 out of 2,183 schools for geographic diversity. A significant 72.61% of students come from out of state, and 2.37% are international students. The undergraduate student body includes students from 20 states (including Washington, D.C.).

Age Diversity

Fairfield University demonstrates a good ability to attract students of all ages, with a student age diversity score of 69.75 out of 100. While the university primarily caters to traditional college-aged students (18-21 years), it also welcomes students from diverse age groups.

Academic Profile

Fairfield University offers 43 majors and 19 minors for undergraduate students, as well as 41 different graduate programs. In 2016-17, the university awarded 930 bachelor's degrees, 367 master's degrees, and 36 doctoral degrees. The most popular undergraduate majors include Nursing, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Communication, Psychology, Biology, and English. The student-faculty ratio is 12:1, with an average class size of 22 students.

Admission and Selectivity

Fairfield University is considered a "More Selective" university by U.S. News & World Report. The university accepts the Common Application and has a test-optional admissions policy. In 2023, Fairfield University received 15,463 undergraduate applications, with an acceptance rate of 45%. The overall enrollment yield is 20.6%.

Financial Aid and Costs

Approximately 91% of undergraduate students at Fairfield University receive financial aid through grants or loans. In 2023, the median undergraduate tuition was $55,510, which is $30,935 more than the national average for Masters Colleges and Universities. The average net price, after factoring in grants and loans, is $47,630. The average yearly cost of room and board is $16,750, and the average cost of books and supplies is $1,150.

Graduation and Retention Rates

Fairfield University boasts a high retention rate, with 90% of first-time, full-time undergraduates returning for their second year. This is higher than the average retention rate of 74% for similar Masters Colleges and Universities. The four-year graduation rate is 81%. In 2023, 82% of students completed their program within 100% of the "normal time" (i.e., 4 years for a 4-year degree).

Outcomes

Six years after graduation, the median salary for Fairfield University graduates is $73,693. The most common jobs for graduates include accountants, auditors, managers, and financial managers. The integration of living and learning is at the heart of a Fairfield education. Students have opportunities to learn what it means to be a fully engaged member of the campus by choosing to participate in a living and learning community based on their interests.

Campus Life and Activities

Fairfield University offers a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for student involvement. The Fairfield University Student Association (FUSA) is the official student association for full-time undergraduate students. The university sponsors 20 varsity sports and has over 100 student clubs and organizations. Students are actively involved in community service and international service trips.

Facilities and Resources

Fairfield University's 200-acre campus features 35 buildings, including academic buildings, residence halls, and recreational facilities. Key facilities include Bellarmine Hall, McAuliffe Hall, the Barone Campus Center, and the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts is the major center for theatre and the arts.

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