Sacred Heart University, USA: Rankings, Intakes, Eligibility Criteria & More

The United States is a vibrant ecosystem of groundbreaking ideas, where pioneering companies like Apple and Google were born. This dynamic environment fosters exceptional research and attracts industry leaders, creating an unparalleled opportunity for determined innovators. 

Aspiring to lead your field? Then, Sacred Heart University (SHU), USA awaits you! This esteemed private university in Fairfield, Connecticut, fosters a nurturing environment that develops your innovative potential.

Through this comprehensive article, we delve deeper into the unique features of SHU, exploring everything from its esteemed academic programs to the vibrant campus life. We further focus on how education here helps you get a rewarding career and a life that makes a vast difference. 

So, ignite your innovative spirit and get ready to join the forefront of Sacred Heart University! 

 Table of Content

1. About Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Connecticut
2. Sacred Heart University Rankings and Reputation
3. Sacred Heart University Top Courses 
4. Available Intakes for Application
5. Eligibility Criteria for International Student
6. Sacred Heart University Cost of Study
7. Scholarships for International Students
8. Sacred Heart University Internships
9. Student Life & Support
10. Placement and Career Assistance 
11. FAQs

About Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Connecticut

Sacred Heart University is a testament to a stimulating education and community engagement. Founded by the most reverent Walter W. Curtis in 1963, SHU has grown into a vibrant university renowned for its focus on Catholic intellectual tradition and commitment to preparing students for a rewarding career. 

SHU complements its leadership focus with a robust research environment spanning all departments. The university's dedicated STEM & Research Community provides resources and fosters collaboration for those pursuing careers in IT, Engineering or Research. Its repository serves as a comprehensive archive of intellectual output, showcasing faculty research alongside student theses and dissertations. 

SHU has six colleges, the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, College of Health Professions, Isabelle Farrington College of Education, College of Nursing, College of Communication, Media & Arts and College of Arts & Sciences. 

Furthermore, SHU’s New England Campus in Fairfield, Connecticut is situated in one of the most economically vibrant regions in the US. Located between New York City and Boston, it offers a perfect place to study, live, and work.

This is just an overview to answer Why study in USA - Sacred Heart University? Time to take a step ahead and learn about the University’s accomplishments in the national and international ranking systems.

Sacred Heart University Rankings and Reputation

Here’s a brief of SHU’s rankings and reputation to give you a well-rounded view of this leading US University.

• Ranked #209 among the Best National Universities for 2024 as per US News & World Report
• One of the Top Undergraduate Business Schools in US for 2024 as per Poets&Quants
• Listed in the Best 389 Colleges in USA for 2024 and Best Business Schools 2023 by Princeton Review
• Ranked between #401-500 in US College Rankings 2022 by Times Higher Education
• Recognized in various categories, including Catholic, Business, Education, Nursing, Connecticut, and Military Support for 2023-24 by Colleges of Distinction

Having examined SHU's position in national rankings and its overall reputation, we can now focus on the programs where this excellence is most concentrated.
 

Sacred Heart University Top Courses 

Whether you are considering a Bachelors or Masters in USA, Sacred Heart University offers umpteen options to explore. 

The University offers nearly 90 programs for Bachelors, Masters, Ph D and Certifications across its six colleges.  Let us dive into the top choices to help you find the perfect fit!

 Popular Masters Courses at SHU

Popular Bachelors Courses at SHU

Intrigued by a particular field? SHU offers several intakes throughout the year for its most sought-after programs. 
 

Available Intakes for Application

Sacred Heart University offers three academic intakes: Fall, Spring and Summer. Some courses are available only during the fall intake, some during the fall and spring, and some in all the three. 

Once you have identified a program of interest, you should check the university website for details on intake periods and application deadlines for that specific course. You’ll also have to check the eligibility criteria so here we make the search a little easier for you. 
 

Sacred Heart University Eligibility Criteria for International Students

Here is an overview of the key eligibility requirements at SHU for your reference before you begin the application process:

For Masters

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited School with an overall GPA of 3.0
• Overall Education of 15 Years (3 years Bachelors is Acceptable)
• Academic Transcripts
• English Language Proficiency Scores:
• PTE Overall 62
• TOEFL iBT Overall between 80-85
• IELTS Overall between 6.0-7.0
• Duolingo Score between 105-115
• Standardized Test Requirements: GRE or GMAT Scores are Optional
   

For Bachelors

• Minimum GPA of 2.5 - 2.75 in Previous Academic Qualification
• General Application Documents (9th-12th Std. Marksheet, Resume, Passport)
• English Language Proficiency Scores:
• PTE Overall 62
• TOEFL iBT 80
• IELTS Overall 6.5
• Duolingo Overall 110
• Standardized Test Requirements: SAT or ACT Scores are Optional

Turning our focus to the next section where we will now understand the cost of studying to help you with your financial planning.
 

Sacred Heart University Cost of Study

Given below are the tuition fees associated with studying at Sacred Heart University:

• For Masters: Annual Fees ranges from $16,650 to $38,850 depending on the Course.
• For Bachelors: Annual Fee is $50,084 for all course options.

Now, choosing between on-campus and off-campus housing at SHU comes down to more than just your personal preferences. 

Living on campus will cost up to $12,700 annually for housing. Food costs will go up to $19,140 per year. However, this housing option is a perfect choice for first-year students as it helps gain familiarity with the campus area.

Off-campus living offers a potential cost savings of $14,300 annually, covering both housing and food. However, remember this is just an estimate. Your actual expenses could vary depending on your lifestyle and living choices.

Having checked the study expenses, let us explore the scholarships offered by the University that you may be eligible to apply for.
 

Sacred Heart University Scholarships for International Students

When you apply to Sacred Heart University as a new student for Undergrads, you are automatically considered for academic scholarships without submitting a separate application. The Scholarship Review Committee evaluates these based on your high school transcript and class rank.

These competitive merit-based scholarships range from $6,000 to $21,000 annually. They can be renewed for up to four years (or eight semesters) of full-time Bachelor's Degree study, provided you maintain the required cumulative GPA. 

The scholarship programs include:

• President's Excellence Award
• Trustee Scholarship
• College Scholarship
• Conley Award

If you are a transfer student, you may also explore the following options:

• Phi Theta Kappa
• Transfer Achievement Award
• Community College Scholarship

In addition to these scholarships, there are Activity-Based, Need-Based, or Endowed Scholarships as well.

You may also check out the ‘Outside Scholarship’ opportunities posted regularly for masters students by the Office of Student Financial Assistance on the university website.

Well now it’s time to take a glance at the internships offered by SHU. 
 

Sacred Heart University Internships

You gain valuable workplace experience at SHU through internships on campus or in other industries. Real-world internships help you integrate classroom study with professional experiences. As a sophomore, you are required to complete a comprehensive course in the available areas of subjects that introduce you to the fundamentals of planning your job search strategies. 

One of the university's renowned School of Computer Science & Engineering maintains a strong network in industries, providing you with numerous opportunities for a successful career. You will be offered on-campus internships in the Factory (SHU's Computer Support Center) and the Network Operations Center.

The following companies mostly hire students from the Computer Science & Engineering department:

• GE
• Microsoft
• IBM
• JP Morgan
• Mercedes Benz Credit
• Morgan Stanley
• People's Bank
• NBC Sports
• Sikorsky Aircraft
• Motor Vehicle Network
• 1st Premier Mortgage Company

Apart from this, SHU also provides internship support for other departments as well, which you can find on its official website.

The university also offers Graduate Research Assistantships (RAs) for various programs. These positions provide valuable firsthand experience working alongside faculty on research projects. 

Let us now explore the various support systems and resources available for students at SHU.
 

Student Life & Support

Sacred Heart University provides a vibrant and engaging experience that helps you seamlessly blend with others. Given below are some of its key aspects:

• The campus community is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and supportive environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and grow. 
• It represents a tight-knit community, fostering relationships between students, faculty and staff.
• The University offers numerous on-campus housing options, from standard dormitories to apartments.
• At SHU, you can access numerous extracurricular activities such as Student Clubs & Organizations, Community Service Projects, Intramural Sports, and Cultural Events that will enrich your experience and help develop leadership skills.
• The University competes in NCAA Division I athletics, allowing you to participate in Varsity Sports Teams or support your mates as fans. 
• The Department of Public Safety maintains a safe and secure environment for the student community.

Your journey at SHU does not stop here. The support system accompanies career and job assistance, helping you succeed from day one to career launch.
 

Placement and Career Assistance 

At SHU, students benefit from the university tie-ups with Fortune 500 corporations and world-class hospitals. Remarkably, over 99% of SHU graduates are either employed or engaged in further studies. Not just that, according to SmartAsset, the University boasts a top 10 ranking for graduate starting salaries in Connecticut! 

• Career Support

Sacred Heart University's Center for Career & Professional Development offers a variety of resources to help you land your dream job. They even have specialized ‘Career Communities’ that focus on specific industries, giving you a centralized hub for exploring careers, building your resume, and networking in your field.

Once you graduate, you will receive extensive career support to help you find your dream job. Over 99% of SHU graduates are either employed or engaged in further studies. 

Some of the big companies that recently hired SHU Graduates include:

• Google
• Walt Disney
• Michael Kors
• AIG
• Amazon
• NBA
• Deloitte
• Ralph Lauren
• KPMG
• ESPN
• Microsoft
• Panasonic
• Bank of America
• NBC

When looking for Internships or Job opportunities after completing your studies, you can explore the University’s job search site Handshake. It gives access to over 3.5 million career prospects. You may also take advantage of the entrepreneur’s incubator and co-working space at West Campus provided by SHU in partnership with iHub. Job opportunities for graduates are not only available in Fairfield but also in nearby cities such as New York City, Philadelphia and Boston. 

Speaking in a nutshell, like other renowned and leading universities in USA, Sacred Heart University (SHU) also offers a compelling proposition for aspiring scholars and innovators. With a vibrant campus community & strong industry connection, it equips you with the skills and experience to succeed in your chosen field. 

If you are worried about how to get an admit here, consider reaching out to KC Overseas Education. Our US country experts will not only ensure admission but also guide you enough to get the US Student Visa. 

We’ll be thrilled to be your support in your pursuit of studying at Sacred Heart University, USA!
 

FAQs

1. What departments or programs at SHU have the best reputations? 

Even though every department at SHU has its relevance, the following departments stand out due to their extraordinary approach towards academic excellence:

• Jack Welse College of Business and Technology
• College of Health Professions
• Davis & Henley College of Nursing
   

2. What are the popular subject areas? 

Find below some of the most popular subjects taught at Sacred Heart University: 

• Business Analytics, Business Administration
• Marketing, Accounting
• Health Administration, Healthcare Informatics
• Nursing, Mental Health Counselor
• Finance, Cybersecurity, Human Resource Management
   

4. Is a GRE score required to study at Sacred Heart University? 

GRE is not a mandatory requirement for studying Master’s at Sacred Heart University.
 

5. What is the acceptance rate at SHU? 

As per the US News & Report 2024, the acceptance rate at Sacred Heart University is around 65.70%.
 

6. What kind of practical hands-on experiences can the students have off-campus? 

Students can get practical experience through internships, clinical placements, fieldwork and research. They can also take advantage of service learning, professional conferences and workshops, industry partnerships, entrepreneurship initiatives, creative arts and performance.
 

7. Are there any on-campus employment opportunities? 

Yes, Sacred Heart University offers on-campus employment opportunities for students. While specific openings are not directly listed on the university website, the Center for Career and Professional Development provides resources to help you find them. They have a dedicated handshake portal where on-campus positions are likely to be listed.