Furman University vs Elon University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic differences between Furman University and Elon University?

  Furman University emphasizes a personalized, undergraduate-focused liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on engaged learning through research, internships, and study away programs. Elon University, while also rooted in the liberal arts, offers a broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including well-regarded schools of business, communications, and law. Elon is known for its experiential learning model, which integrates classroom learning with real-world experiences.

• How do the campus environments and locations compare?

  Furman University is located in Greenville, South Carolina, a growing city with a vibrant downtown area. The campus is known for its beautiful, traditional architecture and scenic lake. Elon University is situated in Elon, North Carolina, a smaller, more college-town environment. Elon's campus is also known for its beauty, featuring brick pathways, historic buildings, and extensive green spaces. Both universities offer a welcoming and supportive campus community.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-faculty ratios at Furman and Elon?

  Both Furman and Elon pride themselves on small class sizes and close relationships between students and faculty. Furman typically has a student-faculty ratio of around 10:1, while Elon's is approximately 12:1. This allows for personalized attention and mentorship opportunities at both institutions.

• How do Furman and Elon differ in terms of their academic strengths?

  Furman is particularly strong in areas like political science, economics, and the natural sciences, with a focus on undergraduate research. Elon excels in communications, business, and performing arts, offering a wider array of specialized programs and facilities in these fields. Both universities have strong liberal arts foundations that support all academic disciplines.

• What is the cost of attendance like at Furman University versus Elon University?

  Both Furman and Elon are private universities, and their costs of attendance are comparable. Tuition, fees, and room and board are significant investments at both institutions. It's important to check the most recent figures on their respective websites, as costs can change annually. Both universities offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help make education more accessible.

• What are the athletic programs like at Furman and Elon?

  Both Furman and Elon are NCAA Division I institutions. Furman competes in the Southern Conference, while Elon is a member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). Both universities offer a variety of varsity sports, as well as club and intramural sports. Elon's athletic programs have seen increasing success in recent years, particularly in sports like football and basketball. Furman has a strong tradition in sports like soccer and golf.

• How do the student bodies compare in terms of diversity and demographics?

  Both Furman and Elon are actively working to increase the diversity of their student bodies. While historically predominantly white institutions, both universities have implemented initiatives to attract and support students from diverse backgrounds. Elon tends to have a slightly larger student body overall compared to Furman.

• What are the career services and post-graduation outcomes like for students at Furman and Elon?

  Both Furman and Elon offer comprehensive career services to help students prepare for life after graduation. These services include career counseling, resume workshops, internship assistance, and networking opportunities. Both universities boast strong placement rates, with graduates finding employment or pursuing further education shortly after graduation. Elon's strong alumni network in communications and business is a notable advantage for students in those fields.

• What are the opportunities for study abroad or off-campus study at Furman and Elon?

  Both Furman and Elon strongly encourage students to participate in study abroad or off-campus study programs. Both universities offer a wide range of programs in various locations around the world. Furman's study away programs are often integrated with academic coursework and research opportunities. Elon is known for its semester-long study abroad programs and its emphasis on global engagement.

• What kind of student would thrive at Furman versus Elon?

  A student who thrives at Furman is typically academically driven, enjoys a close-knit community, and appreciates a traditional liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research. A student who thrives at Elon is often experiential learning-focused, enjoys a vibrant campus life, and is interested in a broader range of academic and professional programs, particularly in communications, business, or the performing arts. Ultimately, the best fit depends on individual preferences and academic goals.