Sacred Heart University

Faith. Intellect. Impact.

πŸ“ Fairfield, United States πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

πŸ† #209 in United States

Quick Facts about Sacred Heart University

  • Founded: 1963
  • Type: Private
  • Students: 11,179
  • International: 1%
  • Campus: Suburban
  • Tuition: $26,000 – $52,090/year
  • Language: English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
  • Intakes: August, January

About Sacred Heart University

Sacred Heart University (SHU) in Fairfield, Connecticut, is a private Catholic university and the second-largest Catholic university in New England. Established in 1963, SHU offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, emphasizing a liberal arts tradition and career-focused education.

Academics

Sacred Heart University offers over 100 undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees across its nine colleges and schools, including the College of Arts & Sciences, Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, and the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing. The university's academic approach combines critical studies with practical, skill-based learning, particularly evident in programs like the Film, Television, and Media Arts department. Popular majors include Nursing, Business, Research and Experimental Psychology, Finance, and Exercise Physiology. The student to instructor ratio is 13 to 1, which is better than the typical college, suggesting more instructional attention.

International Students

Sacred Heart University welcomes international students who do not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency and require an F-1 student visa. International students comprise 1% of the total student body, contributing to a diverse campus community. The university requires non-native English speakers to submit official English language proficiency exam scores, accepting tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test. While specific international student support services are not detailed, the university generally offers numerous cultural organizations and multicultural events to foster integration.

Campus & Location

Sacred Heart University's main campus is situated in suburban Fairfield, Connecticut, approximately 55 miles northeast of New York City and less than three hours south of Boston. The campus offers a safe and thriving environment with access to entertainment, outdoor activities, museums, and shopping. On campus, students can attend Division I sports games, performances at the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts, or dine at a 1950s-themed diner. The university also has other campuses and learning sites within Connecticut and an international campus in Dingle, Ireland.

Career Outcomes

Sacred Heart University boasts a high placement rate, with 98% of graduates employed according to the 2023 Graduate Outcome Survey. The median salary for graduates was reported as USD 61,000. The Center for Career & Professional Development offers extensive services, including career communities that provide resources for exploring majors, professions, and building professional networks. Graduates have been employed by notable organizations such as Yale New Haven Health, Northwell Health, KPMG, and Deloitte.

Information for International Students at Sacred Heart University

Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, United States welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 1% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available (~$1100/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Sacred Heart University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Sacred Heart University:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 80
  • Duolingo minimum: 110
  • GPA minimum: 3
  • Application fee: $75
  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)
  • Application deadline: Rolling admissions for Regular Decision, November 15 for Early Decision I, December 1 for Early Action I, January 15 for Early Decision II, February 1 for Early Action II

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Programs at Sacred Heart University (11 programs)

Sacred Heart University offers 11 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (1)

  • Computer Science (BS) β€” 48 months Β· English Β· STEM
    Students gain expertise in programming, data structures, algorithms, software development, and computer systems, preparing them for careers in technology and innovation.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist

Master Programs (7)

  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (MSN) β€” 24 months Β· English
    This advanced nursing program offers specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Leader, preparing registered nurses for advanced practice roles and leadership in healthcare.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) β€” 24 months Β· English
    The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, covering areas such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategy, preparing graduates for executive roles in various industries.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Executive
  • Master of Arts in Education (MA) β€” 24 months Β· English
    This program offers advanced study in educational theory, curriculum development, and instructional strategies, preparing educators for leadership and specialized roles.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Specialist
  • Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and data science, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the tech industry.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Architect, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Master of Science in Digital Marketing (MS) β€” 24 months Β· English
    Students develop expertise in digital marketing strategies, including SEO, social media marketing, content creation, and analytics, to lead successful online campaigns.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Digital Marketing Manager, SEO Specialist, Content Strategist
  • Master of Social Work (MSW) (MSW) β€” 24 months Β· English
    This advanced program prepares students for clinical social work practice, policy development, and leadership in various social service agencies and healthcare settings.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Social Work Administrator, Policy Analyst
  • Master of Science in Human Resource Management (MS) β€” 24 months Β· English
    This program covers strategic human resource planning, talent acquisition, compensation, and employee relations, preparing professionals for leadership roles in HR.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Compensation and Benefits Manager

PhD Programs (3)

  • Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership (EdD) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This doctoral program focuses on developing educational leaders who can drive change and innovation in schools, districts, and higher education institutions.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: School Administrator, Superintendent, Higher Education Leader
  • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) (DBA) β€” 48 months Β· English
    This doctoral program is designed for experienced business professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and apply research to solve complex business challenges and contribute to organizational success.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Senior Business Consultant, Executive Leader, Business Researcher
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) (DPT) β€” 36 months Β· English
    The DPT program prepares students to become licensed physical therapists, focusing on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of movement disorders and physical disabilities.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Sports Physical Therapist

Scholarships & Tuition at Sacred Heart University

Annual tuition for international students: $26,000 – $52,090/year

βœ… Sacred Heart University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Sacred Heart University

  • National Ranking: #209 in United States
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Sacred Heart University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Suburban
  • Average class size: 24
  • Housing cost: ~$1100/month

Key Highlights

  • Second-largest Catholic university in New England
  • Over 100 diverse degree programs
  • Strong career-focused liberal arts education
  • 13:1 student-to-instructor ratio
  • Suburban Fairfield, CT location

Accreditation

  • New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB-International)
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
  • Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA)
  • Council on Social Work Education, Commission on Accreditation (CSWE-COA)

Notable Alumni

  • Luis Montes
  • Brian Foley
  • David Cappo
  • Chris Fox
  • Meaghan Buenrostro

Frequently Asked Questions about Sacred Heart University

What is Sacred Heart University?

Sacred Heart University is a private university located in Fairfield, United States, founded in 1963. It has approximately 11,179 students, with 1% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at Sacred Heart University?

Tuition fees at Sacred Heart University for international students range from $26,000 – $52,090/year. Student housing costs approximately $1100/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Sacred Heart University?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 110. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $75. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Rolling admissions for Regular Decision, November 15 for Early Decision I, December 1 for Early Action I, January 15 for Early Decision II, February 1 for Early Action II.

What language are courses taught in at Sacred Heart University?

Courses at Sacred Heart University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does Sacred Heart University offer?

Sacred Heart University offers 11 programs: 1 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Sacred Heart University ranked?

#209 in United States.

Does Sacred Heart University offer scholarships?

Yes, Sacred Heart University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Sacred Heart University provide visa support?

Yes, Sacred Heart University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.

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