University of Indianapolis

UIndy’s academic portfolio leans heavily toward health sciences and professional programs, with nursing (RN), psychology, and business administration as its most popular majors. The university offers 100+ undergraduate programs, including niche options like artificial intelligence and actuarial science through partnerships with Purdue. Small class sizes (student-faculty ratio: 13:1) and a hands-on learning ethos define the experience—think clinical rotations at nearby hospitals for nursing students or internships with Indianapolis corporations. Graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and education are regional standouts, though some undergraduates note uneven advising quality across departments.

With 56% of students living on campus, UIndy fosters a residential community anchored by traditions like Homecoming Week and Midnight Breakfast during finals. Over 70 clubs range from cultural organizations (Black Student Association, Latinx Union) to quirky interests like the Quidditch team. Division II athletics—especially football and basketball—draw crowds, while Greek life (11% of students) operates at a lower profile. The 65-acre campus feels suburban but connects to downtown Indianapolis via a 20-minute drive, offering internships at companies like Eli Lilly and concerts at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Graduate students cite the ‘small college’ vibe as a strength, though some wish for more late-night dining options.

UIndy’s 91% career outcome rate (employed or in grad school within six months) outshines its middling graduation rates (55% in 4 years, 67% in 6 years). Nursing graduates dominate hiring pipelines at Indianapolis hospitals like Franciscan Health, while business alumni often land at regional firms. Median earnings 10 years post-graduation hover around $53,610—on par with Indiana’s state schools but below elite privates. The university touts its ‘UIndy Advantage’ internship guarantee, though some humanities majors report needing to hustle for opportunities. Graduate school placements are strongest in health professions, with DPT and OT programs boasting near-100% licensure pass rates.

At $22,283 average net price after aid (sticker price: $35,000 tuition + $12,000 room/board), UIndy costs less than many private peers but more than Indiana’s public options. The $74 million aid pool includes automatic merit scholarships (up to $25,000/year for 3.8+ GPAs) and need-based grants. Notably, 99.6% of undergrads get some aid—often stacking multiple awards. The ‘UIndy Promise’ covers full tuition for Pell-eligible Indiana residents with family incomes under $65k, though fine print requires 30+ annual credit hours. Critics note fees (e.g., $500/semester lab costs for science majors) can add up, and the six-year graduation rate means some pay for extra semesters.

UIndy’s hyper-local focus sets it apart: nursing students train at on-campus simulation labs and nearby hospitals, while business majors consult for Indianapolis startups. The near-universal aid coverage (99.6%) makes it a rare private school accessible to middle-income families, especially through programs like the UIndy Promise. Its Division II athletics (18 teams) offer spirited games without cutthroat recruiting. Downsides? The six-year graduation rate trails peers, and arts/humanities resources are thinner than health sciences. But for students wanting hands-on careers in Indy—with professors who know their names and a 91% shot at a job after—it’s a pragmatic pick.