Franciscan University of Steubenville
Steubenville, OH, USA

Reviews

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Catherine from Wilmington, DE

a current student here
26 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Every class is challenging and presents materials with a Catholic perspective. The professors are knowledgeable and honestly try to help you in your learning experience.
Am enjoying being here
There are so many opportunities to grow here. Whether it's in respect to your education or faith life, there is always the chance to grow without being forced. Religious households are a beautiful way to do this with sisters or brothers in Christ.
Bang for the buck
No where else in the country can you get such a profound and great Catholic education.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely look into households and take advantage of the opportunities! Don't worry about not fitting in because every one here is so welcoming!
Great for these types of students
Students who are committed academically and spiritually to the Catholic Church. Franciscan also has a top-notch nursing program, if you're interested in that.

Maria from Williamsville, NY

a current student here
21 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers here are amazing. They really know what they're talking about and you learn so much in each class.
Am enjoying being here
There is Mass 3 times a day, perpetual adoration, a chapel in every dorm building, praise and worship once a week, confession is offered almost every day, and so much more!! The spirituality here is just amazing and the people are so friendly! You feel at home right away!
Bang for the buck
It's a bit expensive, but definately worth every penny.
Tips for prospective students
Since we all share the same morals, values, and faith, you make friends so easily! I know that I've made friendships that will last a lifetime.
Great for these types of students
If you are looking for a school that will challenge you both intellectually and spiritually then this is definately the school for you! It will change your entire life!

Lia from Kearny, NJ

accepted here and planning to attend soon
12 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
As stated before, this school not only challenges you A LOT, but you also grow spiritually which to me is more than equally important. It's about priorities. If Jesus is your priority, don't even question wether you should come here if you have the ability to come!!!
Will enjoy being here
I've been wanting to attend for about 5 years now and can't wait to get there. Everything about this school is amazing. The one and only thing I am worried about is that I have not seen a proper track. I know they do have a team, but I wonder where they practice. :(
Bang for the buck
If you the price of Franciscan compared to other schools, it's actually very affordable. For the complete price including dorming and personal expenses would be JUST the basic tuition at other schools. Trust me, it's VERY affordable when you look around. Also, the teachers sacrifice themselves for this school, they really don't get paid a big salary at all and use this as a sacrifice to offer to God.
Tips for prospective students
The most important thing you need to get in is the essay. You have to really let them know that you're interested.
Great for these types of students
Everyone who is open-minded and interested in growing your relationship with Jesus Christ. But seriously, this school is good for everyone!!!

Mary from Orlando, FL

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Some of the classes were not too challenging when it came to turning in materials (though I say this coming from the IB program). However, the teachers are very good and know there stuff. the fact that it is a smaller college also means that you can talk with the teachers afterwards, whether you need help or just wish to strike a conversation with them about something you learned in the class.

Even so, I saw myself having to study more for some of my classes than I ever did in IB, so if you feel academically inclined, then worry not if you are concerned about the level of rigor. In addition, I recommend the honors program if you are epspecially interested in gaining a good back round in humanities and a well rounded liberal art education.

Am enjoying being here
I love the environment here. the students are very friendly and welcoming, and though almost all are practicing Catholics, there is nonetheless a diversity in personalities. Of course, when you come, expect several theological discussions over a lunch table when meeting people.

I personally enjoy a small college setting, so if you are looking for a large university, this is not the place for you. But if you feel most comfortable in a small to medium sized institution, you'll feel right at home.

For a Catholic university, the rules (in my opinion) are actually reasonable. For example, there is no curfew, but during certain times (late at night due to sleeping and studying) quiet hours are in place.

The biggest adjustment I had to make was to be prepared for the climate. Floridian native and snow does not mix, so some adaptation was needed for cold wet winters.
Bang for the buck
The university is worth every cent, especially considering the fact that it is a private college with knowledgeable professors and good academic programs. Even the ones that are not more renown will get you prepared for a career or for post graduate studies.

The only negative is that scholarship opportunities and financial aid are a bit limited. The university does as much as it can in being able to provide financial aid to its students, but it can only do so much.
Tips for prospective students
In order to get the most out of the academics, try to learn by engaging with the professors, not just by attending classes and doing assignments. They are bodies of knowledge and through discussions can even teach you things that are not in the curriculum. This especially happened to me in my freshman theology class when i could not digest certain theological concepts.

Take any opportunity you can to grow spiritually while your are here. there are three daily masses, several clubs and households to meet with people likewise growing in faith, several opportunities for confessions, and a general environment teeming with catholicity. However, even if you do not do too much, expect a change when you return. Even though i do not feel much different since I began studying there, my family has noticed a positive differences in my behavior and personality

Take the opportunity to go to lectures given by guests from other universities. they do not have to be lectures given by professors of the same major you are in. Most of these lectures will incorporate theology, but they can be from different perspectives, from which you can learn much.

Finally, you do not have to join a household (think of them as the Catholic version of a fraternity/ sorority) to get a good experience and grow spiritually. Some people might feel pressure to do so, and it might be helpful to several students, but there are other ways to be part of the social life in FUS and if you have not found a household (I haven't), then you need not worry.
Great for these types of students
Ferverent Catholics
Students who like small college settings
Students with preferences for Northern climate (apparently this was not high on my radar)
Students especially looking for a good theology/ catechetics, philosohy, or nursing program (their most renown majors)
Students not so interested in the party life, (does not mean there is no partying among students, but dont expect much).

Hailey from Spokane Valley, WA

accepted here and planning to attend soon
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The campus is absolutely amazing. Also, everyone is so warm and welcoming! I can't wait to attend FUS.
Academic Rigor
I sat in on some classes and they seemed amazing. Everyone is ready to learn.
Dorm Life
It seems like everyone knows everyone and the dorms seem pretty awesome.
Food and Dining
Good food with good people.

Elijah from Newbury, NH

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am learning all sorts of skills needed to get my BSN
Am enjoying being here
I love Franciscan University because of the environment, classes, and opportunities I have once I graduate
Bang for the buck
Franciscan University has a competitive Nursing Program but it is very affordable
Tips for prospective students
If you come and visit us in Steubenville Ohio, you'll definitely enjoy your stay, meet great people, and leave with a positive opinion of the school
Great for these types of students
Anyone will fit in at Franciscan University and it has a variety of majors to choose from.

Grace from Waterbury Center, VT

accepted here and planning to attend soon
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
The school has been around for a good amount of time, and if you ask the students they will probably tell you how the work is challenging, but also rewarding.
Will enjoy being here
since almost everyone has the Faith in common, making friends should not be difficult. Also, since the campus is small the environment is one of a supportive family.
Bang for the buck
I don't know yet, but I am pretty sure that this school is worth every penny though there is little financial aid available.
Tips for prospective students
call often to find out if you are up to date on all your information, and fill out applications before you get there to work in the SWOP program.
Great for these types of students
Catholics
those searching for truth

August - Richland Center, WI

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Great for these types of students
Franciscan University is amazing for people such as myself who are looking to go to college in a family like atmosphere.
Clubs and Activities
The households are awesome, but the waiting list is SUPER long

Cassandra from Corcoran, CA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Franciscan University of Steubenville Ohio is an academically excellent school that is passionately catholic. It is a great place to grow spiritually, emotionally, physically and socially. It offers a great Catholic culture, with the best faith filled faculty in over 30 majors.
Tips for prospective students
If your looking for a school that will help you grow spiritually this is the place to go. There are over 40 undergraduate programs and over 5 graduate programs. This school offers a life changing study abroad program in Austria. The student life is filled with many on campus activities including households, NCAA Division III sports and intramurals. You are also welcome to participate in many of the on campus ministries.
Academic Rigor
This school doesn't use the slogan academically challenging for nothing. High academic standards will show in students performances and accomplishments. Students strive for higher education and are equipped with a faculty that challenges and strengthens them.
Dorm Life
Residence life seeks to serve you. There are many different Halls throughout Franciscan with different communities in each. Franciscan allows you to be involved in a unique, energetic Catholic community unlike any other. Students are challenged and supported to live out their faith as they progressively mature. These communities help you find your vocation in a comfortable and safe dynamic that supports you academically and spiritually. Franciscan is build up on a Christ centered community.
Food and Dining
Franciscan dining services range from full-service cafeteria to coffee shops and fast food-style restaurants. There are a couple different plans to choose from that are best for you. Franciscan also offers meal exchanges that allow you to use a meal exchange at the retail locations on campus. You are also given points that allow you to buy from these retail locations. Franciscans cafeteria provides a grill, salad bar, their main dish and other great choices to choose from. There are also dietary needs available.
What to do for fun
There are many activities that students can get involved in for fun. Intramural sports are a great way to have fun and stay in shape. There are many clubs and households that students participate in. College isn't all about studying and Franciscan knows that. Throughout the year there are many events for students to get involved and have fun.
Bang for the buck
U.S. News & World Report�s 2008 Guide to America�s Best Colleges named Franciscan to the elite �Top Tier� of Midwest universities in its category for the seventh year in a row. And in 2007, The Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College cited Franciscan University as one of 21 recommended institutions.
Clubs and Activities
Franciscan is your home-away from home. At Franciscan you are able to be apart of Chapel Ministries, Faith Households, Works of Mercies, Missions of Peace, Evangelization, Liturgical Committee, Student life, Student Government and more. Organizations range from learning more about your interest to concerts and campus events. Many groups are involved in local community while others help their fellow students. At Franciscan you find groups that will help you and challenge you to become a better, more well-rounded person.
Campus Safety
The campus is guarded with security 24/7. Students are safe.

Brittney from Corona, CA

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Franciscan is the perfect college if you are interested in getting a quality education while also growing in faith. I enjoy all activities and groups that they have on campus. it is a spirit filled campus and has great classes.
Tips for prospective students
Just to be ready for change, but good change. The people here will call you to Holiness. the campus its self is beautiful, the only thing is the cafeteria takes some getting use to.
Dorm Life
I love it. all the residents are for the most part respectful and the are a good size.
Food and Dining
it really depends what you eat and on the day.