Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, Connecticut

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Sacred Heart University (SHU) allows students to develop their full potential in their field of study, with approximately 90 courses to select from. It is the mission of SHU to emphasise a vision for “social justice and educate students in mind, body, and spirit to prepare them personally and professionally to make a difference in the global community”. Having access to resources and mentors early on allows students to achieve their dream occupations at an early stage.

SHU has a tradition of prioritising its students. The University was established in 1963 to meet the requirements of Bridgeport area aspirants for higher education. Since then, SHU has become one of the nation's fastest-growing and most progressive Catholic colleges via its unwavering commitment to pursuing its purpose. The Poets & Quants named Sacred Heart College one of the best undergraduate colleges for business schools in 2024. 

Sacred Heart University offers an inclusive, Catholic-values-based community that supports students' holistic development and fosters a sense of belonging through various student-led clubs and societies. SHU also aims at imparting lessons and knowledge through its unique way of teaching. Again, the mission of this institution focuses on creating a caring and compassionate community on campus for all students.

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Sacred Heart University Key Highlights 

Established 

1963

Founder

Walter W Curtis

University Type

Private university

University City

Fairfield, Connecticut

Acceptance Rate

66%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio 

16:1

Endowment 

$189.8 Million

Campus Size

311 Acres

Graduation Rate

81%

Employment Rate 

100%

Official Website Link

https://www.sacredheart.edu/ 

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Sacred Heart University Ranks and Recognition 

Sacred Heart University, founded on Catholic intellectual heritage and liberal arts, draws inspiration from the Second Vatican Council's call for innovation while preserving tradition. Embracing this spirit, SHU maintains its core values while preparing for the future. In 2023-24, the College of Distinctions recognized SHU in categories including Catholic, Connecticut, business, education, nursing, and military support. Additionally, the Times Higher Education Ranking 2023 placed the university in the 401-500 bracket.

Other significant achievements of Sacred Heart University, according to US News & World Report, include: 

  • list items Ranked #209 in the best colleges national universities category for year 2024. 
  • list items Considered to be one of the Best National Universities.
  • list items Known for its Best Undergraduate Business School,
  • list items One of the Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs, 
  • list items One of the Best Undergraduate Psychology Programs
  • list items One of the Undergraduate Computer Science Programs, 
  • list items One of the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,
  • list items Best Online Master’s in Nursing Program, 
  • According to the Princeton Review, Sacred Heart University (SHU) holds notable rankings. In 2024, SHU is ranked 389th among the best colleges. Additionally, it is recognized as one of the best business schools in the 2023 reports.

    Sacred Heart University holds multiple accreditations. The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) has accredited its Master of Public Health (MPH) program, while the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited the Master of Social Work program. The university's online programs and overall accreditation are recognized by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Additionally, Sacred Heart University's business programs are accredited by AACSB.

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    Sacred Heart University Campus Details

    Sacred Heart University (SHU) embraces the belief that power stems from a shared vision, achieved through collaborative efforts toward building inclusive and equitable communities. The university features two distinctive campuses: the main campus in Fairfield, Connecticut, and the West Campus on Easton Turnpike, notably housed in the former global headquarters of General Electric.

    Fairfield, CT Main Campus

    Sacred Heart University, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, is ideally positioned equidistant from New York City and Boston, providing students with abundant networking opportunities. The campus is known for its safety and vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of cultural activities, dining options, and recreational pursuits nearby. Students can enjoy performances at the Edgerton Centre for the Performing Arts, support their sports teams at Campus Field, or relax at the university's 1950s-themed cafe.

    West Campus

    Situated in the former global headquarters of General Electric, Sacred Heart University's West Campus is home to some of the institution's most cutting-edge and modern classrooms, lab, and innovation spaces. The west campus facilitates facilities like Modern labs dedicated to facilitating research on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, financial computation, machine learning, augmented/virtual reality, and e-game creation. 

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    Programmes Offered by Sacred Heart University

    The academic offerings at Sacred Heart University are both career-focused and deeply grounded in the liberal arts tradition. With the courses, internships, and connections offered, students will be academically and personally challenged here, which will help the students develop successful and meaningful lives.SHU has more than 90 undergraduate, graduate, doctorate, and certificate programmes to choose from, including online degree programmes offered by six different colleges and three schools.

    Some of the most popular programmes offered by SHU are:

    Program Intake Session

    BS in Accounting

    May 1, 2024

    BS in Biology

    May 1, 2024

    Master of Business Administration

    February 15, 2025

    BS in Psychology

    May 1, 2024

    MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology

    March 1, 2025

    For the 2024-2025 academic year at Sacred Heart University, the cost per credit hour is approximately $676 for undergraduate courses and $815 for graduate courses. Depending on the credit required per semester the course fee can differ. 

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    Sacred Heart University Admissions Details 

    SHU emphasizes career-oriented programs, character-building culture, and supportive resources to ensure student success. The university's commitment to streamlined admissions and financial aid processes highlights its dedication to assisting students throughout their educational journey.

    Admission Deadlines for Sacred Heart University 

    Here are the annual admission deadlines for the majority of undergraduate students seeking enrollment at Sacred Heart University.

    Date Undergraduate Students Deadline

    November 15

    Early Decision I Application Deadline 

    Decision letters will be postmarked by December 1

    December 1

    Early Action I Application Deadline (Non-binding application)

    Decision letters will be postmarked by January 15

    January 15

    Early Decision II Application Deadline 

    Decision letters will be postmarked by February 1

    February 1

    Early Action II Application Deadline (Non-binding application)

    Decision Letters will be postmarked by February 15

    Applications received thereafter will be considered within our Regular Decision plan

    May 1

    Enrolled student deposit due and priority deadline for housing

    Here are the annual admission deadlines for the majority of graduate students seeking enrollment at Sacred Heart University.

    Entry Term Application Deadline  Deposit/Deferral Request Deadline

    Late Spring (March start)

    December 22

    February 15

    Fall (August start)

    June 15

    July 15

    Spring (January start)

    October 15

    November 15

    Set a Reminder: 2024 Application Deadline for USA Universities - Submit Your Application Now
     

    Admission Requirements for International Students

  • list items Official academic records from all secondary schools, colleges, and universities attended
  • list items One letter of recommendation
  • list items Educational Consultant Agent Release
  • list items Students who desire to acquire academic credit for coursework pursued at a foreign university are required to furnish a comprehensive course-by-course assessment report from a NACES-accredited organization such as WES, ECE, FIS, SpanTran, or any other. Apart from the course-by-course rating, candidates must provide a description of each university they have attended. The following documents will be considered acceptable:
    • Course descriptions and syllabi are available in certified translations and university-issued English versions.
    • Non-native English speakers must submit scores from an English language competency exam or an authorized waiver, obtainable with a transcript of completed English curriculum.
  • list items Copy of your passport, specifically the page(s) holding your identification data and the signature of the holder.
  • list items Proof of Financial Support: Applicants must provide a formal bank letter (not bank statements) on bank letterhead, signed and dated within six months of enrollment at SHU, confirming the financial capability for tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
  • list items SHU Awards Portal: Admitted students can access a detailed cost breakdown through the SHU Awards Portal. The I-20 form lists projected costs and is issued once the student is accepted, deposits are paid, and financial proof is submitted.
  • list items I-20 and F-1 Visa: SHU issues the I-20 form after acceptance and receiving the required deposits. This form is necessary to obtain an F-1 visa, committing the student to maintain full-time attendance.
  • Please note that the required documents for graduate students are almost the same, except they need to add a resume and a personal statement/essay.

    Step-by-Step Admission Process 

    Please follow these steps while applying to SHU:

    Step 1: Submit The Application Online Via the SHU website. International students are not required to pay the application fee.

    Step 2: Submit Your Official Academic Credentials

    Step 3: Submit your English proficiency Result

    Step 4: Check with the academic department for further application submission deadlines.

    Step 5: Provide the statement of Finance and proof of funding documents.

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    Exams Accepted at Sacred Heart University

    All the students who are applying for the SHU must submit their ELP scores. However, please note that the GRE/GMAT is not compulsory but rather optional. 

    English Language Proficiency tests

  • list items TOEFL: 80+
  • list items TOEFL iBT® Home Edition: 80
  • list items TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
  • list items Academic IELTS: 6.5
  • list items Duolingo: 110
  • Other Acceptable Exams and Their Scores

  • list items PTE: 62
  • list items iTEP: 5
  • list items Cambridge C1 Advanced: 180
  • list items Completion of ELS 112
  • list items Completion of EF Level C1
  • list items Completion of Talk Level 7
  • list items EIKEN: pre-1
  • list items GTEC: 1200
  • list items PTE: 62
  • list items SHU ESL Program: Score of 90 on exit ESL exam AND successful completion of Level 5 or 6
  • list items VEPT 5.5
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    Tuition Fees & Other Expenses at Sacred Heart University

    The approximate annual costs of attending Sacred Heart University are listed below. These costs include direct and indirect fees students have to pay. 

    Cost for Undergraduate Students

    Tuition/Fees Direct Cost

    Full-Time Undergraduate Tuition
    12-18 Credits (fall & spring only)

    $24,080/semester

    Credit Overload Tuition (19 or more credits)

    $1,175/credit

    Winter, Late Spring & Summer classes:
    A $115 Registration fee is required per semester

    $650/credit

    Audit Fee

    $985/class

    Apart from the direct costs, there are also some indirect costs involved in attending SHU as an undergraduate student. These costs are listed here:

    Full-Time Undergraduate Indirect Costs Living On Campus  Living Off Campus Living with Parent(s) or Relative(s)

    Living Expenses (Housing & Food)
     

    N/A

    $7,015/Semester

    $1,699/Semester

    Books, Course Materials, Supplies & Equipment

    $1,425/Semester

    $1,425/Semester

    $1,425/Semester

    Transportation

    $500/Semester

    $750/Semester

    $750/Semester

    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses

    $915/Semester

    $915/Semester

    $915/Semester

    Cost for Graduate Students

    Fee Direct Cost

    Audit Fee

    $985/course

    Application for Graduation Fee

    $160

    Payment Plan Enrollment Fee

    $65/plan (one per semester)

    Guaranteed Payment Plan (GPP)

    $80/plan (one per semester)
    $90 late fee

    Returned Payment Fee

    $40

    Graduate Admissions Application Fee

    $75

    Replacement Diploma for pick-up

    $75

    Replacement Diploma by mail

    $80

    Other Indirect costs that graduate students need to consider are:

    Graduate Indirect Costs Indirect Cost

    Living Expenses (Housing & Food)

    $6,236/Semester

    Books, Course Materials, Supplies & Equipment

    $1,333/Semester

    Transportation
     

    $667/Semester

    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses

    $813/Semester

    Professional licensure, certification, or first professional credential

    Varies


    Learn about expenses covered under education loan.

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    Financial Aid & Scholarships by Sacred Heart University

    Sacred Heart University's approach to financial aid helps students meet their academic goals through various programs that offer support based on academic and extracurricular achievements, and family financial needs. This commitment eases the investment in a Sacred Heart education.

    Few Scholarships at Sacred Heart Unversity:

    Name Benefit Eligibility

    Evelyn M. Conley Scholarship Fund

    Supports law school education

    Senior-year students accepted into law school

    Patricia H. Cook Endowment Scholarship

    Supports performing arts

    Students enrolled in performing arts programs

    Bishop Curtis Scholarship Fund

    Provides need-based scholarships

    Undergraduate students demonstrating financial need

    Kaitlyn Doorhy Scholarship

    Financial support

    Full-time undergraduates exemplifying Kaitlyn Doorhy's qualities, from Long Island, NY

    Charles T. Eby Memorial Scholarship

    Supports history majors

    Full-time history major entering senior year with high academic standing

    Financial Assistance Provided by Sacred Heart University

  • list items Merit Scholarship Programs: Merit scholarships are awarded at admission and are renewable for up to four years with the maintenance of a minimum GPA. They are given on a first-come, first-served basis without future increases.
  • list items Activity-Based Programs: SHU offers grants and scholarships for full-time undergraduates involved in campus activities like sports and leadership. Continuation of funding requires ongoing participation.
  • list items Administrative Graduate Assistantships: Available to fully matriculated, full-time graduate students. Interested individuals should contact relevant departments directly for details on availability and work criteria; these positions often include a stipend.
  • Work-Study at Sacred Heart University

    Work-study is a type of financial aid provided by the federal government to help students pay for their education by working part-time during the school year. It is important to note that students are not allowed to study while on the job, as the program is intended to provide them with work experience.

    Students can look beyond scholarships and get financial assistance from other avenues. Gyandhan provides easy international education loans to help Indian students accelerate their education abroad and pursue successful careers.

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    Jobs & Placements Opportunities at Sacred Heart University

    At SHU, students can explore employment opportunities through Career Communities, which offer a comprehensive resource for investigating potential majors and careers, developing networks, and enhancing resumes. This support aims to provide a competitive edge upon graduation. Additionally, SHU connects students with job listings via platforms like Handshake and Indeed, and also posts opportunities on its website. Graduates from SHU have an average starting salary of approximately $78,000 per year. Here are a few job titles with their pay scale:

    Job Title Range Average

    Physical Therapist (PT)

    $70k - $78k

    $72,457

    Human Resources (HR) Generalist

    $68k - $80k

    $74,160

    Occupational Therapist (OT)

    $59k - $75k

    $62,979

    Nursing Manager

    $102k - $126k

    $105,869

    Some of the top recruiters are:

    Company Name Average Salary

    CBS NEWS

    $132,500

    Cognizant 

    $121,842

    Cooper Surgical 

    $ 59,500

    Henkel Corporation 

    $112,500


    Discover your future earning potential—try GyanDhan’s Future Earnings Estimator today!

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    Accommodation by Sacred Heart University

    Sacred Heart University's residential life is more than just accommodation; it's a vibrant extension of the classroom experience. Students can choose from a variety of living options, such as Freshmen Residential Halls, Sophomore Residential Halls, and Junior/Senior Residential Halls.

    These facilities range from traditional high-rise residence halls to more independent living setups in on- and off-campus apartments. Living on campus at SHU for the academic year 2023-2024 involves a median housing cost of $12,320 and a required Big Red Meal Plan costing $6,130, bringing total estimated living charges for on-campus students to around $66,910 for the year. This environment is designed to foster learning, growth, and lifelong friendships among students from diverse backgrounds.

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    Notable Alumni 

    The Office for Alumni Engagement and the Sacred Heart University Alumni Association are committed to maintaining connections with alumni through enhanced services that support their careers, networking, and ongoing involvement with the university. Some of their prominent alumni include:

    Alumni Designation Achievements

    Drew Denbaum

    Actor

    Denbaum's plays "Ways of Loving" and "Secrets," based on stories by Brendan Gill, have been staged at West Park Theatre in New York City.

    Kevin Nealon 

    Actor

    Cast Member at SNL

    Suzanne Greco

    Entrepreneur 

    Former CEO of Subway

    Brian Hamilton 

    Entrepreneur 

    Co-Founder of Sageworks

    Felipe Reinoso

    Politician 

    Former Connecticut State Representative and political candidate for the Congress of the Republic of Peru

    Douglas McCrory 

    Senator

    Connecticut State Senator

    Sacred Heart University is one of the best colleges in the nation due to its diverse and inclusive and ample facilities. If you are planning to excel in your career, SHU is among the best places to study. The teachers at SHU are industry experts who provide students with practical exposure beyond regular classroom discussions. If you have any doubts about Sacred Heart University, you can reach out to them at [email protected].

    Gyandhan assists each student in making the entire process of studying abroad easier and less stressful. We provide a variety of resources to help students opting for higher abroad studies. These include international education loans, expert guidance, and admission exam preparation. GyanDhan offers forex services, credit card solutions, and other services to help you establish a bright career. 

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is there any GRE required for the Sacred Heart University?

    As per the official website of SHU, there’s no requirement for the GRE, and it is optional. 

    What is a waiting pool and how long does it take to get selected?

    If a specific year group has reached maximum capacity, any enrollment applications received will be added to the Waiting Pool for that year group. When a spot becomes available, SHU will review all the applications in the Waiting Pool and offer an interview to potential candidates. The time taken to get selected usually depends on the University.

    Does SHU have clubs? If so, how many clubs?

    Yes, SHU has over 80 student-run clubs, these serve as a place for students to meet with other students who share common interests. This group holds meetings biweekly or sometimes weekly to plan for various events to represent their clubs.

    Is there any health wellness centre on campus?

    Yes, SHU prioritises students' physical and emotional health and well-being by offering a variety of health services, including an on-campus wellness centre and a counselling centre.

    What are the dorm options available for students at the SHU campus?

    At the SHU campus, all the students have the option to reside in the on-campus housing. Students at SHU are given well-developed communities to live in, ranging from suite-style rooms to apartment rooms, with staff readily available to help. All the students can opt from the following residential hall options Elizabeth Ann Seton Hall, Thomas Merton Hall, Angelo Roncalli Hall, Toussaint Hall, and Mother Teresa Hall. Scholars Commons, Christian Witness Commons, Elie Wiesel Hall & Pier Giorgio Frassati Hall, Francis Xavier Cabrini Hall, Thea Bowman Hall, Jorge Bergoglio Hall, Oakwood Gardens, The Ridge Townhouses & Apartments, Pioneer Garden Apartments. 

    Is the Sacred Heart University good for international students?

    Yes, SHU is one of the best universities for International students as it is highly committed to diversity, brilliant campus life and excellent educational programs. Apart from this, the university also helps international students with visa assistance. As of 2024 SHU has also been named as one of the best Undergraduate Business Schools by Poets&Quants.