Edward Waters University
The Vibe Check
Edward Waters University feels like a tight-knit, legacy-focused community where everyone knows your name. As Florida's first historically black college, it carries a profound sense of history and resilience that permeates the urban Jacksonville campus. The small student body creates an intimate, family-like atmosphere where personal attention is the norm.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
EWU's academic strengths lie in its professional programs, particularly Business & Marketing, Criminal Justice, and Biology. The small class sizes ensure direct interaction with professors rather than teaching assistants. While research opportunities exist, the focus is more on applied learning and professional preparation, especially for students aiming for graduate studies or law enforcement careers.
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 Jacksonville
Life in Jacksonville offers diverse options from the beautiful beaches to the urban core. Students can enjoy the city's vibrant music scene, professional sports, and the extensive park system. The campus is close to downtown, providing easy access to internships, cultural events, and dining.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($34,782):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban setting with standard security measures like campus patrols and emergency systems. While the surrounding area of Jacksonville requires standard city precautions, the campus itself is a contained community.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High acceptance rate making it accessible
- ✓ Affordable tuition with a high percentage of students receiving aid
- ✓ Small class sizes for personalized attention
- ✓ Rich history as Florida's first HBCU with a strong community
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (29.1%) and retention rate (53.4%)
- ✗ 10-year median earnings are below national average
- ✗ Limited enrollment size may mean fewer program options
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Edward Waters University is known as Florida's first historically black college and university (HBCU), founded in 1866. It is recognized for its strong programs in Business, Criminal Justice, and its commitment to providing access to education for a diverse student body, particularly those from underserved communities.
No, Edward Waters University is not hard to get into, with an acceptance rate of approximately 84.81%. This makes it an accessible option for many students. However, applicants should still prepare a complete application and demonstrate their interest and qualifications, as the university values students who will contribute to its community.
Campus life at EWU is intimate and community-oriented due to the small enrollment of about 1,113 students. Students often describe it as a family environment where they receive personal attention from faculty and staff. While in Jacksonville, the campus provides a close-knit setting with opportunities for involvement in student organizations, athletics, and cultural events rooted in its HBCU heritage.
The financial value is strong on the front end, with a low average net price of $13,580 and affordable tuition. However, the 10-year median earnings of $34,782 are below the national average, suggesting that the return on investment depends heavily on the student's major and career path. For those pursuing fields with higher earning potential or graduate studies, it can be a worthwhile investment, especially if debt is kept low.
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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 1,181
- In-State Tuition $14,878
- Zip Code 32209
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $13,580 and a high Pell Grant rate of 75.6%, EWU is positioned as an affordable option for many students. However, the 10-year median earnings of $34,782 are below the national average, meaning the return on investment requires careful consideration of your chosen field. The low tuition costs can help minimize debt, but students should strategically plan their majors for maximum earning potential.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.