Purdue University Fort Wayne
The Vibe Check
Purdue University Fort Wayne has a practical, commuter-focused vibe where students are often balancing academics with work and life responsibilities. It feels like a campus where hands-on learning and career preparation take center stage over traditional collegiate pageantry. There's a strong sense of community among students who are driven to improve their economic standing through education.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
The university is anchored by strong programs in business, engineering, and computer science, offering curriculum that aligns with the needs of local industries like manufacturing and healthcare. Class sizes are typically manageable, allowing for direct interaction with professors who often have real-world professional experience. While research opportunities exist, they are more focused on undergraduate involvement and applied projects rather than large-scale theoretical research.
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 Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne offers a mix of urban amenities and affordable living, with students frequenting the Riverfront district for concerts and festivals or the Fort Wayne Zoo for weekend outings. The city has a growing food scene and several parks and trails, providing low-cost recreational options. On campus, student life is quieter and revolves around clubs, academic organizations, and athletic events rather than a bustling party scene.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($45,872):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban setting and benefits from standard campus security measures like emergency phones and patrols. Students should remain aware of their surroundings as they would in any city environment, but the campus itself is generally considered safe for daily activities.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Low tuition costs make it highly accessible for in-state students.
- ✓ Strong ties to local industries provide good internship and job placement opportunities.
- ✓ Smaller class sizes offer more personalized attention from faculty.
- ✓ The curriculum is directly aligned with workforce needs in high-demand fields.
Cons
- ✗ The graduation rate is significantly lower than the national average.
- ✗ Campus life is quieter and may lack the traditional 'college town' atmosphere.
- ✗ Retention rates suggest some students struggle to persist to graduation.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Purdue University Fort Wayne is known for its practical, career-focused education, particularly in engineering, business, and computer science. It serves as a major hub for higher education in Northeast Indiana, often functioning as a key feeder school for regional employers in manufacturing and healthcare. The university is also recognized for its affordability and its integration of Purdue University's system resources into a commuter-campus environment.
No, Purdue University Fort Wayne is not considered a selective school. With an acceptance rate of approximately 86%, the admissions process is generally accessible to a wide range of applicants. While meeting the average SAT score of 1078 is beneficial, the university primarily looks for students who demonstrate the potential to succeed in their chosen program.
Campus life at PFW is best described as commuter-centric and academically focused. Many students live off-campus and balance their studies with work, resulting in a quieter atmosphere outside of class hours. Student engagement revolves around specific clubs, organizations, and varsity athletics, rather than a pervasive residential party culture.
Yes, particularly for Indiana residents. With an in-state tuition of $9,254 and an average net price of $11,513, it is one of the most affordable options for a four-year degree in the state. The 10-year median earnings of $45,872 indicate a solid return on investment, allowing graduates to enter the workforce with significantly less debt than peers from more expensive institutions.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 9,514
- In-State Tuition $9,254
- Out-of-State $22,220
- Zip Code 46805
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $11,513 and in-state tuition under $10,000, PFW is one of the most affordable pathways to a four-year degree in Indiana. The 10-year median earnings of $45,872 offer a solid return on investment, especially for in-state students minimizing debt. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is still strong compared to private institutions, particularly if leveraging the campus's connections to the regional job market.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.