Rider University vs Drew University

Rider University and Drew University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in New Jersey, offer distinct educational experiences. Rider, with an acceptance rate of 75%, boasts a diverse student body, with 48% male and 52% female students. Drew, with a slightly lower acceptance rate of 68%, has a more balanced gender ratio, with 49% male and 51% female students. While Rider excels in business, education, and nursing, Drew shines in the liberal arts, social sciences, and biological sciences. With Rider's graduation rate at 68% and Drew's at 75%, both universities prioritize student success. Explore the detailed comparison table to discover more about these universities' unique strengths and make an informed decision about your academic journey.

	Drew University	Rider University
Overview
Location	Madison, New Jersey	Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Campus setting	Suburb: Large	Suburb: Large
College type	4 year	4 year
Control/business model	Private (Non Profit)	Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system	Semester	Semester
Degrees offered	Undergraduate and Graduate	Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate	88.0%	77.0%
Common app member	Yes	Yes
Religious affiliation	Methodism

Admission
Acceptance rate	79.7%	81.9%
Application fees	Undergraduate: $40 Graduate: $40	Undergraduate: $50 Graduate: $50
SAT range	N/A	1050 - 1270
ACT range	N/A	28 - 31
Students submitting SAT score		20.0%
Students submitting ACT score		4.0%
Total number of applicants	3,542	8,791
Total number of admissions given out	2,823	7,204
Admitted students who chose to enroll	359	638
Yield rate	12.7%	8.9%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A	N/A
High school GPA	Required	Required
Recommendation letters	Required	Required
High school transcript	Not required	Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	Not required

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$64,702	$46,150
Average net price	$17,033	$23,781
Tuition	$41,820	$35,000
Room & board	Room/dormitory: $10,020 Meal plan: $5,848	Room/dormitory: $11,020 Meal plan: $5,590
Available payment plans	Prepaid tuition plan Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	99.0% Average amount $30,371	100.0% Average amount $34,727
Students receiving federal student loan	52.0% Average amount $5,286	61.0% Average amount $5,246
Students taking out private loans	10.0% Average amount $12,500	11.0% Average amount $16,651

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	1,634 Men 43.2% Women 56.8%	3,222 Men 42.0% Women 58.0%
Graduate students	610 Men 47.9% Women 52.1%	982 Men 33.0% Women 67.0%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Low	Moderate
Out-of-state students	N/A	N/A
International students	18.4%	2.8%
Campus local/setting	Suburb: Large	Suburb: Large
Dormitory capacity	1,551	2,409
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	N/A	N/A

Academics
Popular study areas	Social Sciences Theology Biological and Biomedical Sciences Visual & Performing Arts Business	Business Education Psychology Visual & Performing Arts Communication and Journalism
Students to faculty ratio	12:1	10:1
Institutional accreditation	Middle States Commission on Higher Education	Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Outcome
Graduation rate	73.9%	60.9%
Dropout rate	25.0%	38.6%
Transferred out	N/A	N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $40,486 Year 2: $47,260 Year 3: $64,000 Political Science and Government (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $43,240 Year 3: $53,579 Economics (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $41,700 Year 2: $55,512 Year 3: $52,547 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $52,217 Theological and Ministerial Studies (Doctoral Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $50,695 Theological and Ministerial Studies (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $63,304 Year 2: $32,563 Year 3: $47,001 Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $24,484 Year 2: $29,685 Year 3: $44,653 Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $35,954 Year 3: $41,983 Natural Resources Conservation and Research (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $28,366 Year 2: $39,369 Year 3: $41,007 Fine and Studio Arts (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $25,194 Year 3: $29,647	Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $87,763 Year 2: $79,473 Year 3: $93,597 Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $66,917 Year 2: $68,834 Year 3: $75,955 Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $70,456 Year 3: $72,521 Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $69,567 Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: $60,193 Year 2: $60,771 Year 3: $67,210 Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $47,945 Year 2: $52,107 Year 3: $62,232 Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $55,964 Year 3: $60,650 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $45,476 Year 2: $45,752 Year 3: $59,583 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $51,862 Year 2: $53,894 Year 3: $55,130 Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $57,020 Year 2: $50,439 Year 3: $54,983

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in location between Rider University and Drew University?

Rider University has two campuses: the Lawrenceville campus, located in a suburban setting in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, and the Princeton campus, located in downtown Princeton. Drew University is situated in a more suburban environment in Madison, New Jersey, offering a more secluded campus experience.
How do the academic programs at Rider University and Drew University compare?

Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Rider University is known for its strong programs in business, education, and communications, as well as its Westminster College of the Arts. Drew University is particularly recognized for its pre-med and pre-law programs, its strong humanities offerings, and its unique focus on immersive learning experiences.
What is the student life like at Rider University versus Drew University?

Rider University offers a more traditional college experience with a focus on athletics, Greek life, and a vibrant campus community. Drew University fosters a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on academics, research, and social justice. Drew also has a unique 3-2 program with Columbia University and other institutions.
How do the costs of attendance compare between Rider University and Drew University?

Tuition and fees at both universities are comparable, but can vary depending on the specific program and financial aid received. It's recommended to check the official websites of both institutions for the most up-to-date information on tuition, fees, and financial aid opportunities. Consider factors like room and board, and other expenses when comparing the overall cost.
What are the admission requirements for Rider University and Drew University?

Both universities require prospective students to submit an application, high school transcripts, standardized test scores (though many schools are test-optional now), and letters of recommendation. Specific requirements may vary, so it's essential to consult the admissions websites of each university for detailed information and deadlines. Drew University may place a greater emphasis on essays and personal statements.
How do the campus environments differ between Rider University and Drew University?

Rider University's Lawrenceville campus offers a more expansive, suburban feel with a mix of traditional and modern architecture. Drew University boasts a beautiful, historic campus with a more intimate and wooded setting. Both campuses provide a variety of resources and facilities for students, including libraries, athletic centers, and student centers.
What are the career services like at Rider University and Drew University?

Both universities offer career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Rider University's career services often have strong connections to the business and communications industries. Drew University's career services may have a greater focus on pre-professional advising for fields like law and medicine, as well as opportunities in the non-profit sector.
Which university is better for students interested in athletics?

Rider University has a more prominent athletic program, competing in NCAA Division I. Drew University offers a Division III athletic program, which provides a more balanced approach to academics and sports.
How do the research opportunities compare at Rider University and Drew University?

Drew University is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate research, with numerous opportunities for students to work closely with faculty on research projects. Rider University also offers research opportunities, particularly in certain departments, but Drew generally has a more robust research culture for undergraduates.
Which university is a better fit for a student seeking a more urban experience?

Neither university is located in a major city. Rider University is closer to the cities of Philadelphia and New York City, offering easier access to urban environments. Drew University is located in a more suburban setting, but is still within commuting distance of New York City.

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