Anderson University vs Marian University

Anderson University and Marian University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in Indiana, offer distinct educational experiences. Anderson University, a private Christian university, boasts a higher acceptance rate (75%) compared to Marian University's 68%. While Marian University's student body is predominantly female (62%), Anderson University maintains a more balanced gender ratio. In terms of popular majors, Anderson University excels in the fields of Business, Education, and Nursing, while Marian University is renowned for its programs in Business, Health Professions, and Social Sciences. With graduation rates of 58% and 62% respectively, both universities demonstrate a commitment to student success. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve into further details and discover which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Anderson University logo

Anderson University

Marian University logo

Marian University

Overview

Location Anderson, South Carolina Indianapolis, Indiana
Campus setting City: Small City: 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 85.0% 78.0%
Common app member No Yes
Religious affiliation Baptist Catholic

Admission

Acceptance rate 50.3% 73.1%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $40

Graduate: $40
SAT range N/A N/A
ACT range N/A N/A
Students submitting SAT score
Students submitting ACT score
Total number of applicants 4,510 3,151
Total number of admissions given out 2,268 2,303
Admitted students who chose to enroll 776 574
Yield rate 34.2% 24.9%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Not required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $48,308 $50,779
Average net price $21,643 $21,936
Tuition $27,480 $36,600
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $5,570

Meal plan: $5,330
$11,660
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

100.0%
Average amount $23,514
99.0%
Average amount $28,235
Students receiving federal student loan 54.0%
Average amount $5,391
67.0%
Average amount $5,337
Students taking out private loans 16.0%
Average amount $9,984
7.0%
Average amount $13,006

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 3,157
Men 31.6% Women 68.4%
2,980
Men 35.2% Women 64.8%
Graduate students 851
Men 45.6% Women 54.4%
1,091
Men 40.2% Women 59.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Very Low
Low
Out-of-state students 23.4% N/A
International students 0.6% 1.8%
Campus local/setting City: Small City: Large
Dormitory capacity 1,637 1,233
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from South Carolina North Carolina Georgia Florida Tennessee N/A

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Theology
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Business
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
Students to faculty ratio 16:1 14:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 63.7% 64.5%
Dropout rate 36.1% 10.2%
Transferred out N/A 25.3%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,305
  • Year 2: $61,020
  • Year 3: $74,436
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,984
  • Year 2: $57,657
  • Year 3: $60,870
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $44,932
  • Year 2: $50,231
  • Year 3: $54,130
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,983
  • Year 2: $45,852
  • Year 3: $52,483
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,090
  • Year 2: $42,682
  • Year 3: $49,945
Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $35,500
  • Year 2: $38,289
  • Year 3: $44,204
Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $35,262
  • Year 2: $37,748
  • Year 3: $40,697
Education, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,785
  • Year 2: $38,134
  • Year 3: $38,067
Design and Applied Arts (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,964
  • Year 2: $37,363
  • Year 3: $37,856
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,480
  • Year 2: $36,275
  • Year 3: $37,052
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,291
  • Year 2: $58,464
  • Year 3: $60,651
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,671
  • Year 2: $45,383
  • Year 3: $49,098
Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $42,429
  • Year 2: $44,590
  • Year 3: $48,733
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,127
  • Year 2: $47,595
  • Year 3: $48,155
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $38,582
  • Year 2: $37,808
  • Year 3: $37,731
Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $31,387
  • Year 2: $25,967
  • Year 3: $30,240
Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,578
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Biology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $27,788
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $25,579
  • Year 2: $27,439
  • Year 3: N/A
Osteopathic Medicine/Osteopathy (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,508
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary religious affiliations of Anderson University and Marian University?

    Anderson University is affiliated with the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana), while Marian University is a Catholic institution. This difference is a significant factor for students seeking a faith-based education within a specific denomination.

  • How do the academic programs at Anderson University and Marian University compare?

    Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Anderson University is known for its strong programs in communication, education, and business. Marian University has notable programs in nursing, education, and medicine (through its medical school). The specific program offerings and strengths should be considered based on your academic interests.

  • What is the typical student body size and campus environment like at each university?

    Anderson University generally has a smaller student body than Marian University. Anderson offers a more intimate campus environment, fostering close-knit communities. Marian University, while still maintaining a strong sense of community, has a larger student population, which can provide a broader range of social and extracurricular opportunities.

  • How do the tuition and financial aid opportunities differ between the two universities?

    Tuition and financial aid packages vary at both institutions. It's recommended to check the most current tuition rates and financial aid information directly on each university's website. Both universities offer various scholarships, grants, and loan options to help make education more affordable. Contacting the financial aid offices at both schools is highly recommended to understand your specific eligibility and potential costs.

  • What are the athletic programs like at Anderson University and Marian University?

    Both universities have robust athletic programs. Anderson University competes in the NCAA Division III, while Marian University competes in the NAIA. This difference impacts the level of competition and the types of athletic scholarships available. Consider your athletic aspirations when evaluating these two schools.

  • How do the campus locations and surrounding communities compare?

    Anderson University is located in Anderson, Indiana, a smaller city with a more suburban feel. Marian University is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, offering access to the amenities and opportunities of a major metropolitan area. Consider your preference for urban versus suburban environments when making your decision.

  • What are the student life and extracurricular activities like at each university?

    Both universities offer a variety of student clubs, organizations, and activities. Anderson University often emphasizes community involvement and faith-based activities. Marian University provides a broader range of activities due to its larger student body and location in Indianapolis. Explore the specific clubs and organizations offered by each university to see which aligns with your interests.

  • What are the graduation rates and career services like at Anderson University and Marian University?

    Both universities are committed to student success and offer career services to assist students with job placement and career planning. Research the specific career services offered by each university, including internship opportunities, career counseling, and alumni networks. Graduation rates are generally strong at both institutions, indicating a commitment to student success.

  • How do the admission requirements and application processes differ?

    Admission requirements and application processes are similar at both universities, typically involving high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and letters of recommendation. However, it's essential to review the specific requirements and deadlines for each university on their respective websites. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as auditions or portfolios.

  • Which university is a better fit for me?

    The best university for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your academic interests, religious affiliation, desired campus environment, financial situation, and career goals. Visiting both campuses, talking to current students, and researching specific programs will help you make an informed decision. Both Anderson University and Marian University offer excellent educational opportunities, so the 'better' choice is the one that best aligns with your personal and academic aspirations.

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