Franklin University
The Vibe Check
Franklin University has a distinct 'non-traditional' and career-focused vibe, catering largely to adult learners and working professionals balancing education with life responsibilities. The atmosphere is pragmatic and supportive, with a strong sense of community among students who are serious about advancing their careers. It feels less like a typical residential college and more like a professional hub where education is a tool for immediate upward mobility.
Academics & Majors
Franklin's academic strengths lie in its career-aligned curriculum, particularly in Business, Criminal Justice, and Health Professions, designed with direct input from industry leaders. The university prioritizes practical, applied learning over theoretical research, offering flexible online and evening formats to accommodate working students. Teaching quality is centered on real-world experience, with faculty often serving as practitioners in their fields.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Columbus
Columbus offers a vibrant urban experience with access to the Arena District for concerts and sports, the Short North for arts and nightlife, and the sprawling Easton Town Center for shopping and dining. Students can explore the city's renowned food truck scene, visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, or take advantage of the city's extensive park and trail system for outdoor activities. The city's status as a tech and healthcare hub also provides ample networking and internship opportunities beyond campus.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,892):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Located in the urban downtown area of Columbus, the campus benefits from the city's general safety infrastructure and on-campus security measures. Students should remain aware of their surroundings as they would in any major city center, but the university maintains a safe, well-lit environment for its commuter and evening students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition rates that minimize student debt.
- ✓ Highly flexible online and evening course schedules ideal for working adults.
- ✓ Strong focus on career-ready programs with direct industry connections.
- ✓ Open-enrollment policy provides accessible pathways for non-traditional students.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation (37.4%) and retention (47.4%) rates compared to national averages.
- ✗ Primarily commuter campus with limited traditional residential college life.
- ✗ Urban setting may present safety considerations for some students.
- ✗ Limited research opportunities compared to large research universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Franklin University is primarily known for serving adult learners and non-traditional students through flexible, career-focused education. It specializes in programs like Business, Criminal Justice, and Health Professions, with a strong emphasis on practical, applied learning and robust online degree offerings. The university is recognized for its open-enrollment policy and partnerships with community colleges and employers in the Columbus area.
No, Franklin University has an open-enrollment admissions policy, making it accessible to a wide range of students. While specific acceptance rate data isn't publicly available, the university's mission focuses on providing educational access rather than selective admission. Applicants generally need to meet basic requirements such as a high school diploma or GED, and admission is typically granted to those who demonstrate the ability to succeed in college-level work.
Campus life at Franklin is distinct from a traditional residential college, as it primarily serves commuter students, many of whom are working adults. The atmosphere is professional and focused, with a close-knit community of students balancing education with careers and families. While there are student organizations and campus events, social life is often centered around academic and career-oriented activities rather than the classic residential college experience.
Franklin University can be an excellent value, particularly due to its very low tuition of $9,577, which significantly reduces potential student debt. The 10-year median earnings of $51,892 for graduates provide a solid return on investment, especially for students who complete their degree efficiently. However, the low graduation and retention rates suggest that success depends heavily on the student's ability to stay on track and graduate, making it most worthwhile for motivated individuals who can leverage the degree for career advancement.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 8,705
- In-State Tuition $9,577
- Zip Code 43215
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of just $9,577, Franklin University presents an exceptionally low sticker price compared to national averages, making it a financially accessible option for many. However, the net price of $22,605 and a graduation rate of 37.4% require careful consideration, as the return on investment hinges on the student's ability to graduate efficiently and leverage the degree for the median 10-year earnings of $51,892. For self-motivated students, particularly those balancing work and school, the low debt burden combined with solid mid-career earnings suggests a strong financial value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.