Sacred Heart University vs Ithaca

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College?

  Sacred Heart University (SHU) is a private, Catholic university located in Fairfield, Connecticut, known for its strong business, nursing, and education programs. Ithaca College (IC), a private institution in Ithaca, New York, is renowned for its communications, music, and performing arts programs. SHU has a more suburban setting, while IC is located in a classic college town. SHU's campus culture is influenced by its Catholic identity, whereas IC has a more secular and arts-focused environment.

• Which college is larger: Sacred Heart University or Ithaca College?

  Sacred Heart University has a larger undergraduate enrollment than Ithaca College. SHU's undergraduate population is approximately 6,000, while Ithaca College's is around 5,000. However, both institutions offer a personalized learning experience with relatively small class sizes.

• How do the academic programs compare between Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College?

  Sacred Heart University excels in professional programs like business, nursing, and education, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in these fields. Ithaca College is highly regarded for its programs in communications, music, and the performing arts, with strong offerings in journalism, film, and theater. Both institutions have strong liberal arts programs, but their areas of specialization differ significantly.

• What is the campus environment like at Sacred Heart University versus Ithaca College?

  Sacred Heart University offers a suburban campus environment with a strong sense of community fostered by its Catholic identity. There's a focus on service and leadership development. Ithaca College, located in a vibrant college town, has a more arts-focused and progressive atmosphere. The campus is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and active student involvement in creative pursuits.

• How do the costs of attending Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College compare?

  Both Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College are private institutions, and their tuition costs are comparable. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors like room and board, fees, and personal expenses. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information and to explore available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

• What are the athletic programs like at Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College?

  Sacred Heart University competes in NCAA Division I athletics, primarily in the Northeast Conference. They offer a wide range of varsity sports, including basketball, football, hockey, and lacrosse. Ithaca College competes in NCAA Division III athletics, primarily in the Liberty League. They also have a strong athletic program with a variety of varsity sports, including football, swimming, and track and field. Both schools offer opportunities for students to participate in club and intramural sports as well.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College?

  Both Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College offer comprehensive career services to help students prepare for their future careers. They provide resources such as career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs. Sacred Heart University's location in close proximity to major corporations in Connecticut and New York provides students with ample internship opportunities in fields like business and healthcare. Ithaca College's strong alumni network in the media and entertainment industries offers students valuable internship and networking opportunities in those fields.

• Which college is a better fit for me: Sacred Heart University or Ithaca College?

  The best college for you depends on your individual interests, academic goals, and preferred campus environment. If you're interested in professional programs like business, nursing, or education and prefer a suburban campus with a Catholic-influenced community, Sacred Heart University might be a good fit. If you're passionate about communications, music, or the performing arts and prefer a vibrant college town with a strong arts scene, Ithaca College might be a better choice. Visiting both campuses and speaking with current students and faculty can help you make an informed decision.

• What are the graduation rates like at Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College?

  Both Sacred Heart University and Ithaca College have strong graduation rates, indicating a commitment to student success. Typically, both institutions have four-year graduation rates above the national average. You can find the most recent graduation rate data on the respective college websites or through resources like the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard.

• What kind of student life and extracurricular activities are available at each school?

  Sacred Heart University offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities, including Greek life, student government, and performing arts groups. There's a strong emphasis on community service and leadership development. Ithaca College also boasts a rich student life with a wide array of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, including media organizations, performing arts groups, and social justice initiatives. Both schools offer opportunities for students to get involved and make a difference on campus and in the surrounding community.