University of Utah
The Vibe Check
The University of Utah feels like a hub of innovation nestled between the vibrant city life of Salt Lake City and the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains. There's a palpable energy of exploration and grit, where students are as likely to be found coding in a state-of-the-art lab as they are hiking or skiing after class. It's a place where academic ambition meets an undeniable outdoor passion.
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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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The U is a top-tier research institution, particularly renowned for its groundbreaking work in health sciences, engineering, and computer science. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities driven by faculty who are leaders in their fields. The university's unique connection to the 'Silicon Slopes' tech corridor provides unparalleled access to industry projects and internships.
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 Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of urban culture and outdoor adventure, from world-class skiing and hiking to a burgeoning downtown scene with craft breweries, live music, and diverse restaurants. Students can explore the city's rich cultural offerings, including museums and theaters, or take advantage of the easy access to national parks and stunning natural landscapes. The city is clean, organized, and offers a surprisingly vibrant social scene for a state capital.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($67,170):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and surrounding areas are generally considered safe and well-patrolled, but like any urban environment, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings. The university offers robust safety resources, including a 24/7 campus escort service and a well-lit campus shuttle system.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ World-class outdoor recreation is literally in the backyard, offering unparalleled access to skiing, hiking, and national parks.
- ✓ Strong research infrastructure and direct ties to the booming 'Silicon Slopes' tech industry provide excellent career opportunities.
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition and a solid ROI make it a great financial investment for Utah residents.
Cons
- ✗ The cultural scene is more conservative than in other major West Coast cities.
- ✗ Large class sizes are common, especially in introductory courses.
- ✗ The campus is large and spread out, requiring significant walking or reliance on shuttle buses.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
The University of Utah is a leading research university known for its pioneering work in medicine (home to the first successful artificial heart transplant), genetics, and computer science (birthplace of the video game 'Pong' and a key hub for the development of the modern internet). It also has a strong reputation in engineering and business, leveraging its location in the 'Silicon Slopes' tech corridor.
No, the University of Utah is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 87.17%. However, admission to more competitive programs like Engineering or Computer Science can be more challenging. Applicants should aim for a GPA above 3.5 and a combined SAT score around 1231 to be competitive for admission to the university at large.
Campus life is a dynamic mix of academics, social activities, and outdoor adventure. With over 600 student clubs and a vibrant Greek life, there are many ways to get involved. The campus is located just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City and a short drive from world-famous ski resorts and hiking trails, creating a unique lifestyle that blends city and nature.
Yes, for both in-state and many out-of-state students, the University of Utah represents an excellent value. The in-state tuition is remarkably low for a flagship research university. The strong 10-year median earnings of $67,170, combined with the university's robust career placement in the growing tech and healthcare sectors, suggest a high return on investment.
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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 31,253
- In-State Tuition $9,315
- Out-of-State $29,837
- Zip Code 84112
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $13,172, the University of Utah offers a high-quality education at a cost well below the national average for public universities. The 10-year median earnings of $67,170 indicate a strong return on investment, particularly for in-state students paying just over $9,000 in tuition. This combination of affordability and strong post-graduation earning potential makes it a financially sound choice for many.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.