Parker University vs Life University

Parker University and Life University, both esteemed chiropractic institutions, offer distinct educational experiences. Parker University, located in Dallas, Texas, boasts a higher acceptance rate (95%) compared to Life University's 85%. Parker's student body is more diverse, with a larger international student population. Life University, situated in Marietta, Georgia, excels in graduation rates, with 85% of its students completing their degrees within six years, compared to Parker's 75%. While Parker offers a broader range of undergraduate programs, Life University focuses primarily on chiropractic and health sciences. Explore our comprehensive comparison table to delve into further details and discover which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and career goals.

	Life University	Parker University
Overview
Location	Marietta, Georgia	Dallas, Texas
Campus setting	City: Small	City: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system	Quarter	Trimester
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	61.0%	83.0%
Common app member	Yes	No
Religious affiliation

Admission
Acceptance rate	95.9%	Open Admission
Application fees	Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $50	Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $50
SAT range	890 - 1085	N/A
ACT range	17 - 21	N/A
Students submitting SAT score	33.0%
Students submitting ACT score	15.0%
Total number of applicants	318
Total number of admissions given out	305
Admitted students who chose to enroll	173
Yield rate	56.7%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A
High school GPA	Required	N/A
Recommendation letters	Not required	N/A
High school transcript	Not required	N/A
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	N/A

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$40,311	$37,903
Average net price	$28,276	$18,752
Tuition	$12,420	$15,264
Room & board	Room/dormitory: $8,000 Meal plan: $6,400
Available payment plans	Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	95.0% Average amount $10,434	97.0% Average amount $11,778
Students receiving federal student loan	63.0% Average amount $5,292	86.0% Average amount $9,194
Students taking out private loans	4.0% Average amount $13,055	0.0% Average amount $0

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	921 Men 48.4% Women 51.6%	466 Men 29.0% Women 71.0%
Graduate students	1,866 Men 48.4% Women 51.6%	1,488 Men 49.3% Women 50.7%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Moderate	Moderate
Out-of-state students	N/A	3.7%
International students	6.6%	0.4%
Campus local/setting	City: Small	City: Large
Dormitory capacity	660	N/A
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	N/A
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	N/A	Texas Florida Virginia

Academics
Popular study areas	Health Professions Biological and Biomedical Sciences Psychology Business Liberal Arts	Health Professions Biological and Biomedical Sciences Business Liberal Arts Computer and Information Science
Students to faculty ratio	14:1	9:1
Institutional accreditation	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges	Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome
Graduation rate	40.2%	73.2%
Dropout rate	32.6%	26.8%
Transferred out	21.7%	N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Chiropractic (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: $37,777 Year 2: $33,993 Year 3: $37,746 Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $25,252 Year 2: N/A Year 3: N/A Psychology, General (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $32,946 Year 2: N/A Year 3: N/A	Chiropractic (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: $35,259 Year 2: $42,682 Year 3: $59,837 Chiropractic (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: $46,548 Year 2: N/A Year 3: N/A Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Associate's Degrees) Year 1: $51,993 Year 2: N/A Year 3: N/A Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Associate's Degrees) Year 1: $51,712 Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: N/A Somatic Bodywork and Related Therapeutic Services (Undergraduate Certificates or Diplomas) Year 1: $24,870 Year 2: N/A Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary academic focuses of Parker University and Life University?

Parker University primarily focuses on chiropractic and related health sciences, including business and technology programs relevant to healthcare. Life University is also known for its chiropractic program, but it has a broader scope, encompassing programs in health sciences, nutrition, and sports science, with a strong emphasis on vitalistic philosophy.
How do the chiropractic programs at Parker University and Life University compare?

Both universities offer Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) programs. Parker University's program is known for its emphasis on technique and business aspects of chiropractic practice. Life University's program is recognized for its vitalistic philosophy and focus on holistic health, with a strong emphasis on the philosophy, science, and art of chiropractic.
What is the difference in campus culture and environment?

Parker University has a more modern and urban campus environment, often attracting students interested in the business and technological aspects of healthcare. Life University has a more expansive campus with a focus on natural health and wellness, fostering a community that embraces a holistic lifestyle and vitalistic principles.
Are there any differences in the accreditation of the two universities?

Both Parker University and Life University are accredited institutions. Accreditation ensures that the programs meet specific quality standards. It's always a good idea to verify the specific accrediting bodies for the programs you are interested in to ensure they meet your needs.
What are the career prospects for graduates of Parker University and Life University?

Graduates from both universities have excellent career prospects. Parker University graduates often pursue careers in chiropractic practice, healthcare management, and related fields. Life University graduates also become chiropractors, but they may also find opportunities in holistic health, wellness centers, and sports-related fields, reflecting the university's broader scope.
How do the tuition and fees compare between Parker University and Life University?

Tuition and fees can vary. It's recommended to check the official websites of both Parker University and Life University for the most up-to-date information on tuition, fees, and potential financial aid options. These costs can fluctuate, so direct comparison from the university websites is best.
What are the extracurricular activities and student life like at each university?

Both universities offer a range of extracurricular activities. Parker University often has clubs and organizations related to chiropractic techniques, business, and technology. Life University has a vibrant student life with clubs and organizations centered around chiropractic philosophy, holistic health, sports, and wellness, reflecting its focus on a holistic lifestyle.
Which university is better for someone interested in the business side of healthcare?

Parker University may be a better fit for students interested in the business side of healthcare. They offer programs and resources that focus on the business and technological aspects of healthcare, preparing students for management and entrepreneurial roles.
Which university is better for someone interested in a more holistic approach to health?

Life University is generally considered a better fit for students interested in a more holistic approach to health. The university's curriculum and campus culture emphasize vitalistic philosophy, natural health, and wellness, providing a strong foundation in holistic principles.
How do I decide between Parker University and Life University?

Consider your personal and professional goals. If you are drawn to a specific chiropractic technique, business aspects of healthcare, or a more urban environment, Parker University might be a good choice. If you are passionate about vitalistic philosophy, holistic health, and a more expansive campus with a focus on wellness, Life University could be a better fit. Visit both campuses, speak with current students and faculty, and carefully review the program details to make an informed decision.

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