Francis Marion University
The Vibe Check
Francis Marion University offers a close-knit, supportive campus atmosphere where students are not just a number but a familiar face in the classroom. The suburban setting provides a peaceful, focused environment for learning, yet it remains connected enough to the city of Florence for real-world opportunities. It feels like a place where you can build strong relationships with professors and peers while pursuing your degree.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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Academics & Majors
FMU is particularly strong in health professions, business, and education, offering targeted programs that align with regional workforce needs. Class sizes are generally smaller than at larger state universities, fostering more direct interaction with faculty who are focused on teaching. While research opportunities exist, they are often more accessible at the undergraduate level compared to massive research institutions, providing hands-on experience for motivated students.
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 Florence
Florence is a mid-sized city that offers a mix of local dining, parks, and cultural events, providing a comfortable balance for students. For fun, students often gather at the downtown area for restaurants and coffee shops, or enjoy outdoor activities at nearby parks and lakes. While the nightlife is more low-key than a big college town, the city hosts festivals and has major retail and entertainment chains just a short drive from campus.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($43,888):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a suburban area of Florence, which generally has lower crime rates than a dense urban center. FMU has its own campus police force and maintains a safe, well-lit environment, but students should always practice standard safety awareness, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to lower debt.
- ✓ Strong programs in high-demand fields like Nursing and Teacher Education.
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ The university has a high percentage of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a diverse and economically accessible student body.
Cons
- ✗ The graduation rate is lower than the national average, which may indicate challenges in student retention or support.
- ✗ The retention rate suggests that a significant portion of first-year students do not return for their sophomore year.
- ✗ The campus location in a suburban area may feel isolated for students seeking a bustling, urban college experience.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Francis Marion University is known for its strong programs in Health Professions (especially Nursing), Business & Marketing, and Education. It is recognized as a public university that provides accessible, quality education with a focus on serving the Pee Dee region of South Carolina. The university is also noted for its commitment to undergraduate research and a student-centered learning environment.
No, Francis Marion University is not considered a selective school. With an acceptance rate of approximately 82.23%, the admissions process is fairly open. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1039, and the university practices a holistic review process, considering more than just test scores.
Campus life at Francis Marion is characterized by a close-knit community feel due to its smaller enrollment of around 2,600 students. Students can participate in a variety of student organizations, NCAA Division II athletics, and campus events. The suburban setting offers a quieter, more residential experience, with students often engaging in activities on campus and exploring the nearby city of Florence for entertainment.
For in-state students, Francis Marion University offers excellent value, with a low tuition of $11,160 and an average net price of $13,451. Given the 10-year median earnings of $43,888, the degree provides a reasonable return on investment, especially in high-demand fields like health and business. However, prospective students should be mindful of the graduation and retention rates when evaluating their potential for success.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 4,077
- In-State Tuition $11,160
- Out-of-State $21,544
- Zip Code 29506
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of around $13,451, FMU is a financially accessible option for many families, especially when compared to private institutions. The 10-year median earnings of $43,888 for graduates suggest a solid return on investment for a public university, particularly given the low in-state tuition of $11,160. For out-of-state students, the value is still competitive, but in-state residents will see the most significant financial benefit.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.