University of North Florida (UNF) vs Stetson University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between the University of North Florida (UNF) and Stetson University?

  UNF is a public university known for its strong business, health, and coastal environmental science programs, offering a more budget-friendly option with a larger student body. Stetson University is a private university recognized for its liberal arts focus, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on undergraduate education, including a renowned School of Music and College of Law. Stetson generally has a higher tuition cost.

• Which university is larger, UNF or Stetson?

  UNF is significantly larger than Stetson. UNF has a student population of over 16,000, while Stetson's enrollment is closer to 4,500, including both undergraduate and graduate students.

• How do the tuition costs compare between UNF and Stetson?

  UNF is generally more affordable than Stetson, especially for in-state students. As a public university, UNF offers lower tuition rates for Florida residents. Stetson, as a private university, has a higher tuition cost, although they do offer financial aid and scholarships.

• What types of academic programs are UNF and Stetson known for?

  UNF is well-regarded for its business programs, particularly in logistics and transportation, as well as its health-related programs and coastal environmental science. Stetson is known for its strong liberal arts programs, including music, business administration, and pre-law. Stetson also has a College of Law.

• What is the student-to-faculty ratio at UNF and Stetson?

  Stetson boasts a lower student-to-faculty ratio, typically around 12:1, allowing for more personalized attention. UNF's student-to-faculty ratio is higher, around 20:1.

• Where are UNF and Stetson located?

  UNF is located in Jacksonville, Florida, offering a blend of campus life and access to a major city. Stetson University is located in DeLand, Florida, a smaller city about 30 minutes from Daytona Beach, providing a more traditional college town atmosphere.

• What is campus life like at UNF and Stetson?

  UNF offers a more diverse campus life with a wider range of student organizations and activities due to its larger size. It has a more commuter-friendly feel. Stetson provides a more close-knit community with a strong emphasis on residential life and student involvement. Stetson has a more traditional, historic campus.

• Does UNF or Stetson have a stronger focus on research?

  While both universities offer research opportunities, UNF, as a larger public institution, generally has a greater emphasis on research, particularly in its areas of academic strength like coastal environmental science and health-related fields. Stetson focuses more on undergraduate teaching and providing research opportunities for undergraduates.

• What are the athletic programs like at UNF and Stetson?

  Both UNF and Stetson are NCAA Division I schools. UNF's athletic teams are known as the Ospreys, and Stetson's teams are called the Hatters. Both offer a variety of sports, but UNF generally has a larger athletic program due to its size.

• Which university is better for someone interested in a specific career path, like law or music?

  If you're interested in law, Stetson University has a well-regarded College of Law. For music, Stetson's School of Music is highly respected. UNF is a strong choice for those interested in business, health professions, or coastal environmental science.

• How do the admission requirements compare between UNF and Stetson?

  Generally, Stetson University has slightly more selective admission requirements than UNF. Both universities consider GPA, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), essays, and extracurricular activities. However, Stetson may place a greater emphasis on holistic review and demonstrated leadership potential.

• What kind of financial aid and scholarships are available at UNF and Stetson?

  Both UNF and Stetson offer a range of financial aid options, including federal grants, state grants (for Florida residents), loans, and institutional scholarships. Stetson, as a private university, may have more merit-based scholarships available, while UNF offers a variety of scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, and specific program enrollment.