Xavier University vs Butler University

Xavier University and Butler University, both esteemed private institutions in the Midwest, offer distinct educational experiences. Xavier, a Jesuit university in Cincinnati, Ohio, boasts a higher acceptance rate (75%) compared to Butler's (67%) in Indianapolis, Indiana. While Xavier's student body is predominantly female (58%), Butler's is more evenly balanced (51% female, 49% male). Both universities excel in different areas: Xavier is known for its strong programs in nursing, business, and education, while Butler is renowned for its pharmacy, music, and business programs. With Xavier's slightly higher graduation rate (83% vs. 81%), both universities provide students with excellent opportunities for academic success. Explore the detailed comparison table below to discover more about these two exceptional institutions and determine which one aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.

	Butler University	Xavier University
Overview
Location	Indianapolis, Indiana	Cincinnati, Ohio
Campus setting	City: Large	City: 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	87.0%	83.0%
Common app member	Yes	Yes
Religious affiliation		Catholic

Admission
Acceptance rate	80.5%	84.0%
Application fees
SAT range	1150 - 1340	1090 - 1280
ACT range	25 - 31	22 - 28
Students submitting SAT score	39.0%	16.0%
Students submitting ACT score	35.0%	45.0%
Total number of applicants	15,340	15,199
Total number of admissions given out	12,356	12,770
Admitted students who chose to enroll	1,132	1,185
Yield rate	9.2%	9.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT)	N/A	N/A
High school GPA	Required	Required
Recommendation letters	Not required	Required
High school transcript	Not required	Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL)	Required	Not required

Tuition and Fees
Sticker price	$62,710	$60,540
Average net price	$38,643	$32,370
Tuition	$42,410	$42,230
Room & board	Room/dormitory: $6,950 Meal plan: $7,430	Room/dormitory: $7,520 Meal plan: $6,060
Available payment plans	Prepaid tuition plan Tuition payment plan	Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid
Students receiving financial aid (Grants & scholarships)	98.0% Average amount $24,418	100.0% Average amount $26,824
Students receiving federal student loan	51.0% Average amount $5,444	57.0% Average amount $5,523
Students taking out private loans	11.0% Average amount $21,756	14.0% Average amount $16,270

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students	4,537 Men 40.0% Women 60.0%	5,139 Men 43.5% Women 56.5%
Graduate students	1,022 Men 33.6% Women 66.4%	1,493 Men 37.4% Women 62.6%
Racial/ethnic diversity	Very Low	Low
Out-of-state students	56.6%	N/A
International students	1.5%	1.2%
Campus local/setting	City: Large	City: Large
Dormitory capacity	2,718	2,303
First year students are required to live on campus?	No	No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from	Indiana Illinois Ohio Michigan Missouri	N/A

Academics
Popular study areas	Health Professions Education Business Visual & Performing Arts Foreign Languages and Literatures	Health Professions Business Education Psychology Liberal Arts
Students to faculty ratio	11:1	11:1
Institutional accreditation	Higher Learning Commission	Higher Learning Commission

Outcome
Graduation rate	83.8%	75.2%
Dropout rate	3.9%	24.3%
Transferred out	11.9%	N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)	Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $119,557 Year 3: $112,557 Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $101,964 Year 3: $108,228 Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: N/A Year 3: $67,067 Insurance (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: N/A Year 3: $59,885 Management Information Systems and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $49,019 Year 3: $58,602 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $43,426 Year 3: $58,451 International Business (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $49,058 Year 3: $55,058 Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $45,331 Year 2: $42,123 Year 3: $50,819 Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $36,183 Year 3: $49,676 Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: N/A Year 3: $40,052	Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $83,035 Year 2: $84,284 Year 3: $93,915 Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $68,868 Year 2: $70,456 Year 3: $78,925 Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $73,760 Year 2: $78,971 Year 3: $75,573 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $72,036 Year 2: $66,653 Year 3: $74,949 Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degrees) Year 1: N/A Year 2: $67,660 Year 3: $69,641 Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degrees) Year 1: $65,433 Year 2: $65,956 Year 3: $68,481 Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $54,403 Year 2: $57,318 Year 3: $63,851 Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $53,018 Year 2: $49,918 Year 3: $62,881 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $58,980 Year 2: $57,115 Year 3: $59,905 Human Resources Management and Services (Bachelor's Degrees) Year 1: $41,518 Year 2: $49,468 Year 3: $57,319

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in location between Xavier University and Butler University?

Xavier University is located in Cincinnati, Ohio, an urban environment with a rich cultural scene and a variety of professional opportunities. Butler University is situated in Indianapolis, Indiana, in a more suburban setting, offering a balance of campus life and access to a major city.
How do the academic programs at Xavier University and Butler University compare?

Both universities offer a strong liberal arts foundation. Xavier is particularly known for its programs in business, nursing, and pre-med, while Butler excels in pharmacy, education, and communications. Consider your specific academic interests when making your decision.
What is the student life like at Xavier University versus Butler University?

Both universities offer a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, and Division I athletics. Xavier has a slightly larger student body, which can translate to a wider range of social opportunities. Butler is known for its strong sense of community and school spirit, especially surrounding its basketball program.
How does the cost of attendance compare between Xavier University and Butler University?

The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is generally comparable between the two universities. However, financial aid packages can vary. It's recommended to compare the net cost after financial aid to determine which institution is more affordable for your individual circumstances.
What are the admission requirements for Xavier University and Butler University?

Both universities require similar application materials, including high school transcripts, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies are common), letters of recommendation, and an application essay. Admission standards are competitive at both institutions, so it's important to have a strong academic record and demonstrate extracurricular involvement.
How do the campus environments differ between Xavier University and Butler University?

Xavier's campus has a more compact, urban feel, with buildings closely situated. Butler's campus is more spread out and features a beautiful, historic setting with more green spaces. The choice depends on your preference for a more contained or expansive campus environment.
What are the career services like at Xavier University and Butler University?

Both universities offer robust career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, and internship opportunities. Xavier's location in Cincinnati provides access to a wide range of companies and industries. Butler's location in Indianapolis offers similar opportunities, with a strong presence in healthcare, business, and education.
Which university is better for athletics, Xavier or Butler?

Both universities compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Butler is particularly known for its men's basketball program, which has achieved national prominence. Xavier also has a strong athletic program, with competitive teams in various sports. The best choice depends on your specific interests in sports.
How do the alumni networks compare between Xavier University and Butler University?

Both universities have active and supportive alumni networks. Xavier's network is particularly strong in the Midwest and across the country, with a focus on business and healthcare. Butler's alumni network is also well-established, with a strong presence in the Indianapolis area and beyond, particularly in the fields of pharmacy, education, and communications.
What is the overall campus culture like at Xavier University and Butler University?

Both universities foster a welcoming and inclusive campus culture. Xavier emphasizes its Jesuit values, promoting a focus on service and social justice. Butler has a strong sense of community and school spirit, with a focus on student engagement and leadership development. The best fit depends on your personal values and preferences.

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