Fordham University

Fordham offers over 70 undergraduate majors, with standout programs in business, communications, and English. The curriculum emphasizes Jesuit values of critical thinking and service, supported by a 75% four-year graduation rate. Popular majors include visual and performing arts (8% of students), English (5%), and interdisciplinary studies (5%). Students praise the faculty’s accessibility and the Rose Hill campus’s library as a prime study spot. Graduate programs focus on research and mentorship, aligning with industry trends.

Life at Fordham balances academic intensity with a lively social scene. The Rose Hill campus buzzes with clubs (over 240 options), sports, and occasional house parties, while Lincoln Center leans more urban. Students describe the culture as “friendly and social,” with ample green spaces for relaxation. Commuters and residents alike benefit from NYC’s opportunities, though the campus itself fosters tight connections. A freshman notes, ‘It’s the best place to nap on the grass between classes.’

Fordham’s outcomes are a major draw: 96% of the Class of 2025 secured employment, grad school, or service roles within six months—beating the national average by 8 points. The median starting salary is $70,400, with a strong alumni network in NYC industries. The 82% six-year graduation rate and 89% freshman retention rate reflect student satisfaction and support. Notably, 75% graduate in four years, a metric that outpaces many peers.

Tuition at Fordham is steep, but 70% of first-years receive need-based aid?Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements., averaging $41,919. The net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. after aid is $45,368, with 79% of students getting financial assistance. Merit scholarships require a FAFSA, and the university encourages using its net price calculator for personalized estimates. While costs are high, the ROI is solid, given the strong employment outcomes.

Fordham’s blend of Jesuit tradition and NYC energy creates a unique niche. Its business and communications programs leverage the city’s resources, while the tight-knit campus (despite its urban setting) fosters community. The 96% ‘landed rate’ for grads underscores its career prep strength, and the shift toward greater selectivity signals rising prestige. For students seeking a balance of academic rigor and vibrant social life, Fordham delivers—with the Bronx and Manhattan as its playground.