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Rockford University

Accept Rate
57.23%
Grad Rate
39.2%
Enrollment
956
Avg SAT
984
Tuition
$37,300
Median Salary
$54,794
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Rockford University offers a close-knit, intimate campus experience where students are not just a number but a known face in the community. The small class sizes foster strong connections with professors and peers, creating a supportive and personalized atmosphere. It feels like a tight-knit community where you can easily get involved and make a tangible impact.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

57.23%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 98475th Pctl
8501070
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2175th Pctl
1723
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your interest in their top programs, especially Health Professions or Education, in your application essay to show a direct fit. Since the acceptance rate is moderate, ensure your GPA and test scores are at or above the average (SAT 984) to strengthen your candidacy. Consider applying early to demonstrate strong interest and potentially secure better financial aid packages.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
984
40080012001600
School range: 850โ€“1070

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

The university excels in practical, career-focused majors like Health Professions and Business, with a teaching style that emphasizes mentorship over large lectures. While research opportunities exist, they are often tailored to undergraduate involvement rather than large-scale graduate projects. The faculty are known for being accessible and invested in student success.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
25%
Business & Marketing
18.1%
Education
13.7%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
7.8%
Social Sciences
7.3%
Computer Science
5.9%
Biology & Biomedical
5.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.4%
Family & Consumer Science
3.9%
Psychology
2.9%
History
2%
English & Literature
1.5%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

39.2%
Graduation Rate
70.1%
Retention Rate
956
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$37,300
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$23,066
After financial aid
Total Cost
$47,033
Cost of attendance/year
41.8%
Receive Pell Grants
59.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Rockford

Students in Rockford can explore the city's vibrant arts scene, including the Anderson Japanese Gardens and the Discovery Center Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the extensive park district for hiking and biking, while downtown offers local breweries, coffee shops, and live music venues. The city provides a mid-sized urban experience with a lower cost of living than major metros.

Local Rent Check

$785 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Rockford
Explore Rockford

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$149,200
$0Est. 4 Years: $149,200

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($54,794):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Rockford University is located in a residential neighborhood with campus safety measures like 24/7 security patrols and emergency alert systems. The surrounding city of Rockford has areas that require standard urban awareness, but the campus itself is generally considered safe.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
  • โœ“ Strong programs in Health Professions and Education lead to direct career paths.
  • โœ“ Significant financial aid availability makes private education more accessible.
  • โœ“ Urban setting in Rockford provides internship and community engagement opportunities.

Cons

  • โœ— The graduation rate of 39.2% is lower than the national average.
  • โœ— Campus life may feel limited due to the small enrollment of 956 students.
  • โœ— The retention rate of 70.1% suggests some students transfer out.

Notable Alumni

Betty Friedan
Famed feminist author of 'The Feminine Mystique' and co-founder of the National Organization for Women.
Brenda Lawrence
Former U.S. Representative for Michigan's 14th congressional district and former President of the Southfield City Council.
Dan Harmon
Creator of the television shows 'Community' and 'Rick and Morty'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rockford University is known for its strong programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, and Education. It also has a notable history as the former site of the Rockford Female Seminary, where feminist icon Betty Friedan graduated in 1942. The university emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement.

No, Rockford University has a moderately selective acceptance rate of 57.23%. Applicants with an average SAT score around 984 and a solid GPA have a good chance of admission. The university looks for students who demonstrate academic potential and a genuine interest in their programs.

Campus life at Rockford is intimate and community-focused due to the small enrollment of 956 students. Students can participate in NCAA Division III athletics, student organizations, and campus events that foster close social bonds. The urban location allows for easy access to city amenities while maintaining a tight-knit campus feel.

Rockford University can be a good value, especially with an average net price of $23,066 after aid, which is lower than many private colleges. The 10-year median earnings of $54,794 provide a reasonable ROI for graduates. However, the lower graduation rate means students should plan carefully to avoid extra costs and ensure timely degree completion.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Mercyhealth OSF HealthCare Rockford Public Schools Collins Aerospace Woodward, Inc.
Smart Start Score
53

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,109
  • In-State Tuition $37,300
  • Zip Code 61108

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 46.6% โ™€ 53.4%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $23,066, Rockford University is more affordable than many private institutions, especially with 41.8% of students receiving Pell Grants. The 10-year median earnings of $54,794 suggest a solid return on investment for a private school of its size. However, the relatively low graduation rate of 39.2% means students must be proactive to ensure they finish on time and maximize value.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $37,300
Housing (12 mo) $9,420
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $53,920
With avg financial aid:
$23,066/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.