
Madison, NJprivate nonprofitfdu.edu
Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Campus offers a suburban New Jersey college experience with a pragmatic, career-focused curriculum—particularly strong in business and health sciences—and an inclusive admissions approach. With a 78% retention rate and a six-year graduation rate of 63%, it attracts students who thrive in small classes (13:1 student-faculty ratio) and a lively campus culture of 50+ clubs.
FDU-Florham is highly accessible, with Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. ranging from 84% to 95% across sources, reflecting a test-optional policy (SAT/ACT scores are welcomed but not required). The middle 50% SAT range is 1010–1230, with admitted students showing a broad GPA distribution: 19% had 3.75+, while 18% fell in the 2.50–2.99 range. Notably, female applicants enjoy a 98% acceptance rate versus 89% for males. The university emphasizes flexibility, allowing early admission for high school students and prioritizing a Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone. over standardized metrics.
The Florham Campus leans into professional and pre-professional programs, with business (23% of 2024 graduates), psychology (15%), and visual/performing arts (13%) as the most popular majors. Faculty are frequently praised for mentorship, with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio enabling close guidance. The university offers over 100 degree programs, though its Metro Campus is noted for a stronger business focus. Programs in health sciences, nursing, and engineering are highlighted as strengths.
A 54% on-campus housing rate anchors a community with 50+ clubs, from academic societies to multicultural groups. Instagram posts showcase events like off-campus trips and themed socials, while the university promotes an inclusive environment with wellness services and civic engagement opportunities. The suburban Madison, NJ, location offers a quieter setting compared to FDU’s Metropolitan Campus, with 46% of students living off-campus.
FDU-Florham’s 63% six-year graduation rate outpaces its four-year rate (46%–55%), suggesting many students take longer to complete degrees. The median salary six years post-graduation is $45,916. A 78% first-year retention rate indicates solid student satisfaction, though the transfer-out rate is notable.
With 73% of students receiving aid, the average Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. after scholarships is $17,121. Need-based awards average $35,773 for first-years, and institutional grants reach $20,660. Federal Pell Grants average $6,363, with state aid at $12,132. The Net Price Calculator is heavily promoted to prospective students.
FDU-Florham’s balance of accessibility and support sets it apart: high Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. don’t preclude strong retention (78%), and its suburban campus fosters tight-knit connections. The career-driven curriculum—especially in business and health—pairs with a lively extracurricular scene, appealing to students seeking a practical yet engaged college experience. Its financial aid generosity (73% aid rate) further lowers barriers to entry.