Quinnipiac University Review: Quinnipiac University Rankings, Admissions, Academics, Cost, and More

The pressure to choose a good school for your college education can be overwhelming and requires prospective students to consider factors like class sizes, student body and campus size, and available degree programs. The right school will boost your personal growth and pride itself on school spirit. This article provides a full Quinnipiac University review to aid your decision.

Continue reading for an in-depth view of school life at Quinnipiac University. We’ll cover additional important details on accreditation, cost of tuition, and program options. You’ll also read about the pros and cons for students from Quinnipiac, and discover the overall Quinnipiac University ranking against other schools.

All About Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University is a private non-profit institution founded in 1929 as the Connecticut College of Commerce. It assumed its current name in 1951 in honor of the Quinnipacian Indian tribe that lived in the Greater New Haven area. Quinnipiac University serves more than 6,800 undergraduate and 3,000 graduate students on its three campuses and online facilities.

The university has a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and nearly half of all courses are offered in small class sizes. Quinnipiac offers more than 100 undergraduate and 30 graduate programs in its nine schools and colleges. The university is notable for its graduate employment rate, which is one of the highest in the country.

Where Is Quinnipiac University Located?

Quinnipiac University’s main campus is spread across three campus locations in Hamden and North Haven County, Connecticut. The beautiful campus at Mount Carmel houses most of the residential and academic buildings. The York Hill campus hosts two centers and upperclassmen residential halls, and the North Haven campus contains five professional and graduate schools.

The school’s campus sites provide a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside, wildlife, and rolling hills. In addition to the physical campus locations, Quinnipiac University also boasts online facilities for distance learning.

Is Quinnipiac University Accredited?

Yes, Quinnipiac University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. All colleges and graduate schools at Quinnipiac University have accreditation from recognized organizations, including the American Bar Association and Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

These accreditations show that Quinnipiac University meets or surpasses the minimum standards for providing quality education. In addition, they certify any degree from Quinnipiac University as a legitimate credential for employment and graduate studies. Therefore, graduates from this school are respected in the job market and sought-after by employers.

Is Quinnipiac University Legit?

Yes, Quinnipiac University is legit. It is one of the best schools in Connecticut for prospective students looking for academic opportunities and challenges. Although the cost of tuition is high, it provides an excellent environment for a successful college career.

In addition, the numerous employment and career opportunities available to graduates and the small average class size further cement Quinnipiac University’s status as a legitimate school.

Quinnipiac University Student Reviews

The general consensus of Quinnipiac University’s student reviews is that the professors are one of the school’s highlights. These reviews, which come from reputable sources like US News & World Report, Niche, and Rate My Professors, state that the professors are approachable, engaging, and passionate about their teaching.

In addition to the outstanding faculty, campus safety and the small average class size are significant benefits for students. Most students also agree that the social amenities and learning facilities provide an excellent college education experience. However, despite its wonderful features, many students consider the school’s food options as average and bland.

Quinnipiac University Better Business Bureau Reviews and Complaints

Quinnipiac University has no registered complaints on the Better Business Bureau website. It has an unaccredited rating of A+.

Quinnipiac University Rankings

Quinnipiac University is among the top schools in the country and ranks highly in several college reviews and rankings. In contrast to opinionated student reviews, these organizations provide objective, weighted opinions about the school. The following list examines Quinnipiac University rankings from two credible higher education ranking bodies.

Quinnipiac University US News & World Report Ranking

According to US News & World Report, Quinnipiac University ranks 148th among national universities. It also ranks 45th among the best-value schools in the US. US News & World Report ranks colleges and universities using ten criteria with several sub-categories. Quinnipiac has an overall score of 55 percent and scores above average in graduation rate with a score of 74 percent.

Quinnipiac University Times Higher Education Ranking

Times Higher Education ranks Quinnipiac University 242nd among US colleges. This ranking is based on four categories, including resources, engagement, outcome, and environment. Quinnipiac has an average overall performance of 55.9 out of 100.

Quinnipiac University Graduation Rate

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the graduation rate of Quinnipiac University students is 80 percent. This percentage is high compared to the national average.

Quinnipiac University Admissions

Quinnipiac University admissions prioritize students seeking preparation for professional careers. Prospective students can apply through the online application or the recommended Common Application. The university strongly encourages students to make an early decision if Quinnipiac is their first choice. Admission requirements include a high school diploma, official transcripts, and optional test scores.

Quinnipiac University Acceptance Rate

According to NCES, Quinnipiac University has an acceptance rate of 88 percent. This number is quite high, especially given a large number of yearly applicants to the school. Approximately 15,722 prospective students applied to Quinnipiac University in 2021.

Will You Get Into Quinnipiac University?

Yes, you will get into Quinnipiac University. In addition to the school’s high acceptance rate, the admission requirements are somewhat relaxed. Quinnipiac University does not set any specific admission requirements and considers prospective students on a case-by-case basis. Nonetheless, the university recommends that prospective students have a high school GPA of at least 3.3 and SAT scores between 1080 and 1300 or ACT scores between 22 and 28.

How to Apply to Quinnipiac University

1. Create a Common Application account. The first step of the admission process is supplying an email address and password for your Common Application online account. Fill in your login details and answer a few background questions concerning your admission.
2. Gather the required documents. The Common Application requires you to upload several documents and credentials. These documents include high school academic records, optional university transcripts, standardized test scores, and family information. You should collect these documents before you start filling out the application form.
3. Fill out the application. The Common App form contains several sections for different kinds of information. You’ll need to state your education history, test scores, extracurricular activities, work history, and guardian’s education and work background.
4. Add Quinnipiac University to your college list. You must provide the Common App with a list of colleges you want to attend. Ensure that Quinnipiac University is on the list. In addition, verify the university’s application deadlines and admission requirements, then select an enrollment term.
5. Collect recommendations for the Common App. Prospective students must present three letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors to Quinnipiac University.  We recommend learning how to ask for a letter of recommendation from teachers you are familiar with. This letter provides an avenue for your teachers to testify to your drive, commitment, and academic capabilities.
6. Submit your application. After completing your application, be sure to verify the information you’ve provided and submit it on or before the deadline stated on your Common App dashboard. Make sure you submit any supplementary materials and information needed for your admission before the deadline.

Quinnipiac University Cost

Quinnipiac University is an expensive school compared to other schools in Connecticut and the US overall. The tuition costs make up the most significant percentage of the overall education costs. Full-time students will also have to cover student fees, transportation, technology, and housing. Many students consider Quinnipiac overpriced for the quality of education it offers.

Unlike most schools in the country, the university’s cost of attendance does not depend on the residency status of each student. However, the financial aid a student can receive through FAFSA depends on their residency status. Moreover, some of the school’s scholarship options are only open to Hamden and New Haven residents.

Cost of Living in Hamden

According to PayScale, the cost of living in New Haven County, Connecticut, is 18 percent higher than the national average. Hamden, in the New Haven County area, has an average rent of $1,512 per month. Energy and utility prices are 24 percent higher than the national average, food prices are five percent higher, and healthcare costs are nine percent higher.

Hamden’s economic sector comprises construction services, retail businesses, and manufacturing companies. Quinnipiac University is one of the largest employers of labor in Hamden and has had a massive impact on the economy since its inception.

Quinnipiac University Financial Aid

Quinnipiac University recognizes that it charges a high cost of attendance, and aims to provide numerous financial aid opportunities that help offset its direct education costs. Some of the financial aid avenues available to students include internal and external scholarships, grants, loans, work-study programs, and military benefits.

According to NCES, about 99 percent of the student body at Quinnipiac University receives some form of financial aid. Consequently, the university provided approximately $190 million as financial aid during the 2020-2021 academic year. In addition to internal scholarships, Quinnipiac University encourages students to apply for national and regional scholarships.

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Quinnipiac University Scholarships

• First-Year Student Merit Scholarships. The admissions office at Quinnipiac University offers several scholarships worth between $12,000 and $28,000 to first-year students that were at the top of their class in high school. These scholarships are renewable until graduation as long as the awardees maintain good academic standing.
• Transfer Student Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to transfer students based on application reviews. Eligible candidates must have a cumulative GPA of 2.6 upon admission and must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 to be considered for renewal. The scholarship amount varies between $12,00 and $24,000 per year.
• Quinnipiac Town Scholarship for Hamden Residents. Hamden offers this scholarship to first-year students in recognition of the two campuses located in the town. The scholarship covers up to 75 percent of the annual tuition costs and is renewable for up to four years. A similar scholarship is available for New Haven residents.
• Athletic Scholarships. Quinnipiac University belongs to the NCAA Division 1 and provides athletic scholarships based on recommendations from the athletic director and sports coaches. The exact scholarship amount varies and depends on the requirements of each sport. Awardees must maintain a solid academic standing and adhere to the stipulated NCAA rules and regulations.
• International Student Scholarship. This scholarship is offered to international students who demonstrate academic excellence. Eligible students must present a statement of their financial needs and must continue demonstrating high academic achievement to be eligible for renewal.

Quinnipiac University Graduate Salaries and Outcomes

Quinnipiac University states that 97.4 percent of its students further their education or find gainful employment within six months after graduation. In addition, the US Department of Education College Scorecard states that Quinnipiac graduates earn an average annual salary of $75,515. This figure is much higher than the midpoint average of $47891 for all four-year universities.

Prospective students should know that Quinnipiac’s high graduate employment rate was not achieved by chance. Nearly all programs feature a variety of clubs, internships, and study abroad programs that introduce students to industry and acquaint them with future employers. Several programs report that 100 percent of their graduates are employed or pursuing further studies.

Quinnipiac University Notable Alumni

The majority of notable Quinnipiac University alumni are news anchors, athletes, and celebrities. The alumni body includes professional ice hockey players, basketballers, footballers, and baseball players. In addition to athletes, Quinnipiac University has produced a CEO, a member of the House of Representatives, and news anchors for reputable news channels.

Some notable Quinnipiac University alumni include:

• William C. Weldon, former Executive of Johnson & Johnson
• Devin Toews, Pro Ice Hockey Player
• Molly Qerim, ESPN Sports Anchor
• William D. Euille, former Mayor and Politician
• Dorit Kemsley, Fashion Designer and Actress

Quinnipiac University Campus Life

The student life at Quinnipiac University is lively, featuring over 140 clubs, student government organizations, and campus Greek societies for all different types of students. Students can cheer for the athletic teams competing as the Quinnipiac Bobcats in the NCAA Division I. The most popular sport is ice hockey, but students can compete in other club sports, as well.

The university’s campus Greek life is average, with around 50 percent of students belonging to one of the seven fraternities and nine sororities. Quinnipiac encourages students to practice their individual religions during their college career to fulfill its commitment to diversity and inclusion. It also holds community events and fundraisers for the less privileged outside of class time.

Quinnipiac University Academics

Quinnipiac University offers more than 140 academic programs in its nine schools and colleges. In addition, approximately 6,800 undergraduate and 3,000 graduate students study at the university. The curricula for most programs are designed to prepare students for 21st-century careers and advanced academic opportunities in their chosen field.

The several academic programs offered at Quinnipiac University are grouped into 16 major areas of interest. From business programs to science degrees, the school offers a broad curriculum of fields and interest areas. The advanced program curricula feature interdisciplinary studies that explore other disciplines beyond the primary field of study.

Quinnipiac University Colleges and Departments

Quinnipiac University Faculty

The faculty at Quinnipiac consists of a community of scholars and educators. There are 1,971 staff members of the faculty at the university, including 1,175 full-time and 796 part-time members. The university’s president, Judy D. Olian, has an impressive academic record, including serving as the dean of students at UCLA Anderson School of Management. The other faculty members are experts in their fields and have made significant contributions.

Students rate most of their teachers and professors highly. Many students state that professors care about their students and provide excellent instruction. Quinnipiac University’s professors have been reported to actively seek new information to be ready for any questions students may ask.

Popular Quinnipiac University Majors

Quinnipiac University offers graduate and undergraduate programs in various academic disciplines. These majors strongly emphasize experiential learning through internships, study abroad programs, and research. The section below examines the most popular Quinnipiac University majors and the job prospects they offer.

Quinnipiac University Biomedical Sciences

This major has a strong focus on undergraduate experimentation and research. It encourages students to apply their research skills to develop cures for life-threatening diseases and illnesses. This program also provides a platform for students to present their findings to scientific bodies like the American Society of Microbiology.

Quinnipiac University Biomedical Sciences Jobs

• Medical scientist. Medical scientists research cures for diseases and illnesses to improve human health. This job requires a PhD, but medical scientists often possess a medical degree as a substitute or supplementary degree.
• Microbiologist. This job involves the study of microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Microbiologists perform experiments on these organisms intending to understand their benefits and effects on humankind.
• Biochemist. This job requires expertise in chemistry as applied to the field of biology. Biochemists study the chemical effects of living creatures and biological processes to make new developments in different fields.

Quinnipiac University Nursing

Quinnipiac University’s nursing program teaches students how to become registered nurses capable of providing quality healthcare and health education to diverse patients. Nursing students can gain experience from the more than 300 clinics, hospitals, and other health agencies affiliated with the university.

Quinnipiac University Nursing Jobs

• Registered nurse. Registered nurses administer healthcare to a variety of patients. They also provide general health education to members of the public. In addition to assisting medical doctors, they are capable of independent patient assessment and can make health recommendations to fellow nurses.
• Nurse midwife. Nurse midwives coordinate the child labor and childbirth process. They can either assist doctors in delivering babies or perform the task themselves. This job is very technical and typically requires a master’s or professional degree.
• Nursing anesthetist. Nursing anesthetists work in the operating theater during surgical operations to administer anesthetics to patients. They also monitor a patient’s vitals during the procedure and are ready to resuscitate the patient if needed. Nursing anesthetists also examine the effects of the anesthetic on patients after the surgery.

Quinnipiac University Finance

This major equips students with financial management skills such as wealth and asset management, financial technology, and investments. Students learn how to analyze economic data to develop financial models and perform business simulations. This career-oriented program trains students through internships and a student-managed investment portfolio within and outside of class time.

Quinnipiac University Finance Jobs

• Financial manager. Financial managers direct the economic activities of an organization. They develop business reports, create long-term and short-term financial goals, and lead others to make profitable investments for their company.
• Financial analyst. Financial analysts examine past and present market trends to develop predictive economic models. In addition, they provide advice that helps business owners make informed business decisions.
• Accountant. Accountants make calculations on the finances of a business organization. They prepare balance sheets, spending budgets, cash flow reports, and payrolls. Accountants may also handle a company’s tax reports and perform financial audits.

Quinnipiac University Marketing

This major teaches students to develop ingenious marketing strategies that appeal to all types of consumers. The curriculum for this program incorporates courses from disciplines such as digital communication and data analytics. Marketing and communications students in this program will become well versed in various forms of marketing and the tools they require.

Quinnipiac University Marketing Jobs

• Market research analyst. This job entails studying the market and consumer data to predict potential sales of goods and services. In addition, they develop multiple marketing solutions for the business owner based on target audience data.
• Marketing manager. Marketing managers develop marketing campaigns to push the sales of products. They direct the operations of a marketing team, assign tasks and quotas, and coordinate the execution of marketing strategies.
• Digital marketing specialist. Digital marketing specialists conduct marketing campaigns using social media and other digital platforms. They take advantage of digital media outlets to introduce products and services to a large and diverse audience.

Quinnipiac University Psychology

This major provides the foundational studies students need to pursue various types of psychology careers. The curriculum includes laboratory exercises and fieldwork in addition to traditional classroom learning. Students develop critical thinking and behavior analysis skills and learn how to apply psychology to various aspects of their personal lives.

Quinnipiac University Psychology Jobs

• Clinical psychologist. Clinical psychologists examine the social, emotional, and cognitive behavior of individuals. They also identify and diagnose mental health problems and provide therapeutic services. Clinical psychologists can work in several environments, including healthcare, schools, social work, and law enforcement.
• Postsecondary psychology teachers. Postsecondary psychology teachers teach psychology in colleges, universities, and other institutions of higher learning. This job typically requires a PhD and often involves a combination of teaching and research.
• Forensic psychologist. Forensic psychologists primarily work with law enforcement to apprehend criminals and provide court services. They analyze the motives behind criminal behavior and provide helpful information that can lead to the apprehension of offenders.

Is Quinnipiac University Worth It?

Yes, Quinnipiac University is worth it because it provides excellent chances of gaining employment upon graduation. Quinnipiac University’s beautiful and serene campuses create a conducive learning environment, making the university desirable to prospective students. However, the university’s cost of attendance is incredibly high, so it will be up to you to decide if it is worth spending the money to attend.

Quinnipiac University Review FAQ