Pfeiffer University vs Elon University

Pfeiffer University and Elon University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in North Carolina, offer distinct educational experiences. Pfeiffer, a private university with a smaller student body, boasts a higher acceptance rate and a focus on undergraduate education. Elon, a larger private university, offers a wider range of graduate programs and a more diverse student body. While both universities excel in liberal arts and sciences, Pfeiffer emphasizes healthcare and business, while Elon is known for its strengths in communications and education. Explore the detailed comparison table to discover more about the differences in acceptance rates, popular majors, student demographics, and graduation rates, and make an informed decision about which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Elon University logo

Elon University

Pfeiffer University logo

Pfeiffer University

Overview

Location Elon, North Carolina Misenheimer, North Carolina
Campus setting Suburb: Midsize Rural: Distant
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system 4-1-4 Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 88.0% 69.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation Methodism

Admission

Acceptance rate 77.7% 71.8%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $60

Graduate: $60
SAT range N/A 891 - 1165
ACT range N/A 18 - 25
Students submitting SAT score 5.0%
Students submitting ACT score 6.0%
Total number of applicants 17,834 1,335
Total number of admissions given out 13,859 958
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,591 189
Yield rate 11.5% 19.7%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $55,647 $48,254
Average net price $40,366 $19,198
Tuition $38,218 $31,160
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $6,593

Meal plan: $6,829
Room/dormitory: $6,200

Meal plan: $6,074
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

67.0%
Average amount $13,677
100.0%
Average amount $25,674
Students receiving federal student loan 30.0%
Average amount $5,259
80.0%
Average amount $5,318
Students taking out private loans 7.0%
Average amount $25,192
10.0%
Average amount $9,494

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 6,302
Men 40.2% Women 59.8%
744
Men 42.3% Women 57.7%
Graduate students 825
Men 36.5% Women 63.5%
378
Men 28.0% Women 72.0%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Very Low
Low
Out-of-state students 80.6% 22.7%
International students 2.0% 1.9%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Midsize Rural: Distant
Dormitory capacity 4,192 728
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from North Carolina New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Florida Virginia Texas

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Legal Profession
  • Health Professions
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Education
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
  • Law Enforcement and Firefighting
Students to faculty ratio 12:1 11:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 83.3% 34.4%
Dropout rate 16.7% 29.9%
Transferred out N/A 35.7%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $101,556
  • Year 2: $104,061
  • Year 3: $105,320
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,803
  • Year 2: $71,854
  • Year 3: $78,720
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,320
  • Year 2: $60,016
  • Year 3: $77,567
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,276
  • Year 2: $54,192
  • Year 3: $77,220
Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,564
  • Year 2: $62,154
  • Year 3: $76,604
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,888
  • Year 2: $69,629
  • Year 3: $70,208
Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,091
  • Year 2: $50,022
  • Year 3: $64,255
Economics (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $44,189
  • Year 3: $59,817
Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,293
  • Year 2: $36,674
  • Year 3: $58,053
Law (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $44,055
  • Year 3: $55,617
Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $73,886
  • Year 2: $70,176
  • Year 3: $75,235
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,276
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $61,314
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,216
  • Year 2: $40,312
  • Year 3: $42,763
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $31,664
  • Year 2: $38,289
  • Year 3: $35,672
Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $25,712
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $36,785
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,418
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Security Science and Technology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $67,660
  • Year 3: N/A
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,369
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,389
  • Year 2: $53,984
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the key differences in size and location between Pfeiffer University and Elon University?

    Pfeiffer University is a smaller, private university located in Misenheimer, North Carolina, offering a more intimate campus environment. Elon University, also a private institution, is situated in Elon, North Carolina, and boasts a larger student body and a more expansive campus.

  • How do Pfeiffer University and Elon University compare in terms of academic focus and reputation?

    Elon University is nationally recognized for its engaged learning programs, including undergraduate research, study abroad, and internships, and has a strong reputation across various disciplines. Pfeiffer University, while also offering a strong liberal arts foundation, is particularly known for its programs in health sciences, business, and education, with a focus on practical application and career preparation.

  • What is the typical student profile at Pfeiffer University versus Elon University?

    Pfeiffer University generally attracts students seeking a close-knit community and personalized attention from faculty. Elon University tends to draw students looking for a broader range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, as well as a more competitive academic environment.

  • How do the costs of attending Pfeiffer University and Elon University compare?

    Elon University generally has a higher tuition cost compared to Pfeiffer University. However, both institutions offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help students manage expenses. It's best to check each university's website for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to explore available financial aid options.

  • What types of extracurricular activities and campus life experiences are available at each university?

    Elon University offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including numerous clubs, organizations, Greek life, and a vibrant arts scene. Pfeiffer University, while smaller, provides opportunities for student involvement through clubs, organizations, athletics, and campus events, fostering a strong sense of community.

  • What are the athletic programs like at Pfeiffer University and Elon University?

    Elon University competes in NCAA Division I athletics, offering a wide range of varsity sports. Pfeiffer University competes in NCAA Division III athletics, providing a competitive athletic environment with a focus on student-athlete development.

  • How do Pfeiffer University and Elon University approach career services and post-graduation outcomes?

    Both universities offer career services to assist students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Elon University is known for its strong alumni network and career placement rates. Pfeiffer University focuses on preparing students for specific career paths, particularly in fields like healthcare and business, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and professional development.

  • What are the admission requirements and acceptance rates for Pfeiffer University and Elon University?

    Elon University typically has a more selective admissions process with a lower acceptance rate compared to Pfeiffer University. Both universities consider factors such as GPA, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may apply), essays, and extracurricular involvement. Check each university's admissions website for the most current requirements and deadlines.

  • What are the student-faculty ratios at Pfeiffer University and Elon University, and how does this impact the learning environment?

    Pfeiffer University generally has a lower student-faculty ratio than Elon University. This often translates to smaller class sizes and more individualized attention from professors. While Elon University's student-faculty ratio is higher, they still prioritize engaged learning and offer opportunities for students to connect with faculty through research and mentorship programs.

  • What kind of campus culture and community can I expect at Pfeiffer University versus Elon University?

    Pfeiffer University offers a close-knit, supportive community where students often form strong relationships with faculty and peers. Elon University provides a more diverse and dynamic campus environment with a wide range of perspectives and interests represented. Both universities emphasize student engagement and personal growth, but the overall feel of the campus community differs due to size and institutional focus.

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