Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, FL, USA

Reviews

Jacksonville University

Karla from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
14 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The fact that the class size is really small, gives the teacher more time to give out more information and pretty much call out each and every one of us to make sure we know whats going on. Sometimes you think you understand until you're asked; that's when you challenge yourself and find if you understand the material at hand. The subject doesn't matter. The professors there will learn your name and know your capacity pretty soon. If you need help. Help is everywhere! tutoring programs by subject are free.
Am enjoying being here
The school isn't THAT small. There's always something to do there. It's a small community and you will get to know more people then if you were at a bigger college. Joining clubs will keep you busy as well if that's what you're looking for.
Bang for the buck
this can all depend on how you did your high school year. They give out lots of scholarship money but the school is expensive anyway.
Tips for prospective students
Don't slack off. The bad thing about getting to know everyone and always having friends around is that you wont be able to discipline yourself so well. With all the stuff going on that seems so much fun. You will need to make some sacrifices and stay in your dorm that night rather then go out and have fun sometimes
Great for these types of students
Great for pre-dentistry. music..or arts. and athletics i would say. Also business as well! Students who want the small class sizes because they seem to work best one on one almost.

Ariel from Miami Gardens, FL

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The small class sizes allow for a better learning environment. You get that one on one feeling because the professors know your name and can come and help you without all the hassle of having 300 other students in the room.
Am enjoying being here
There are lots of school events that go on like finals pancake dinner and tailgating for home games that JU can have because there are less students and its a simpler environment that makes school events a lot more fun.
Bang for the buck
The school is pricey but if you want that small class atmosphere or not as busy atmosphere this is the place to go.
Tips for prospective students
If your planning to come to JU make sure you have looked at all your options and know that this is the place for you.
Great for these types of students
JU is great for more small town students who like having less people and don't like the giant classes or a billion people around you all the time. Or if you play sports. Ju is a big sports school.

Erick from Coral Springs, FL

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
For me being a Music student I enjoying the small ratio of teacher to student. This allows me to expand my knowledge and grow as a musician. I am able to learn more than if I chose a much larger campus.
Am enjoying being here
Getting to know your professors and having them know you is great! Also the students are wonderful.
Tips for prospective students
Great school! Nice class sizes and tons to do. Very beautiful campus.
Great for these types of students
Great for fine art students looking to excel in their craft. Also I would say great for sports as well!! We have excellent basketball team. All sports are NCAA Division 1 expect football.

Robyn from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
My classes are amazing! The teachers are very responsive to the students and don't mind you asking question if you don't understand something. Even if you send them an email, it is usually answered within 24 hours. As a Biology student, having the St. Johns River directly behind the school makes for excellent hand-on work, especially for ecology and marine biology aspects. When it comes to homework, there is plenty to keep you busy, but not nearly so much that you have no down time. There is enough time between quizzes and tests for you to space out studying for all of your classes, PLUS for most classes, all of the quizzes and tests are dated on the syllabus so you know weeks ahead of time!
Am enjoying being here
I am a commuter student and a freshman so I haven't had the on-campus living experience, but the people on campus and in my classes are very nice and the teachers are very respectful. You will be treated as an adult and your decisions (as long as they aren't poor ones) and opinions will be taken seriously.
Bang for the buck
I was given plenty of financial aid and a very large scholarship. I only had two options for school since I had to stay close to home and JU gave me the best the could. JU is expensive, but it is a private college and there are so many more benefits to have 30 people in a class than 300. It allows the school to supply you with the newest and the best of technology, as well as on campus activities.
Tips for prospective students
Be prepared to pay. If you know you will have to pay out for tuition, remember to add the cost of dorms and what goes in them, meal plans, books, parking decal, and just having cash on hand for extra needs during the year. If this is really the school you wish to attend, start saving as soon as possible and look for as many outside scholarships as you can.
Great for these types of students
Pre-med of any sort will love this school. The business program is one of the best in the area. Those who, like me, walk kinda slow, will love the size of the campus. Coming from the dorms can be pretty far, but it nothing compared to most university campuses. The 10 and 15 minute class separation are plenty of time for most.

Stephanie from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors cater to your every need. They give up their cell phone numbers and their office hours and all the time they have to help you in the course. They give out extra credit work like crazy. The classes are jam packed with information and they are not boring. The teacher does not expect you to just buy the book and learn yourself. Every step is put on the board and broken down/discussed. The small classes give the teachers time to make sure not a single student fails unless the student really tries to (by not coming to class or by being lazy on their workload).
Am enjoying being here
I commute, so it is really hard to make many friends that way. I instead tend to make more friends with the teachers and the staff. I've made a few friends with the other students who commute, but it is hard to hang out with the students who live on campus when the drive is 20 minutes away. It is also hard to go to any campus activities when the drive is 20 minutes away. I schedule all my classes close together, and if there is a campus activity scheduled around my classes or in between 2 classes, I'll go. The campus activities are so much fun, though. That's why the ranking is a 4. JU's Final's Frenzy is the best. It really destresses you before finals with free massages, free food, raffles, games, and all sorts of fun activities.
Bang for the buck
I'm so glad I'm here, don't get me wrong, but I've been through a year here, and I'm already in debt. The school is expensive, and even though I make straight A's they aren't boosting up the money they are giving me for my academic scholarship. So, I wonder how bad it would be if I wasn't making straight A's. I don't get financial aid or the Pell Grant so I always feel like I'm going to have to be paying off a huge loan when I get out. But, I do like it here, I just have to remember that.
Tips for prospective students
Try to join a club if you go here, that way you will be guaranteed to have friends with the same interests as you. The students in your same major you will see all four years and they may not have the same interests as you, just the same career path. Don't take 18 credit hours every semester. The Student Solutions Center at JU specifically told me that I should take a break from doing that because it gets really tiring, really fast.
Great for these types of students
Jacksonville University is great for hard working students who like to have a little fun on the side. It is not your typical party school, but it is also not boring. The classes do take up a lot of your time, so to be studious would be the best advice I have to give you. The kids here who try to turn JU into a party school don't do very well in their classes.

Rachel from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors are so helpful here. Whenever you need help, they are there for you- that's what's great about the small class size. The classes are very unique and I can honestly say I have never learned so much, especially because you can get one-on-one help in a subject if you're struggling.
Am enjoying being here
This is a very tigh-knit community, and it feels like home. The class size is small- usually less than 30 students per- which allows you to do class projects often and get help and different perspectives on the material from the other students.
Bang for the buck
While tuition is high, I definitely feel that the cost is worth it- and they have plenty of campus scholarships to help with the cost, as well as a ton of on-campus jobs to help pay off the rest. You are paying for the great community and one-on-one help you get everywhere you turn.
Tips for prospective students
Check out the website before you get on campus- you can learn about the different programs, professors, and all of the new opportunities on campus- I found out about the new Marine Science Research Institute where I now study. SO HELPFUL! Also, talk to students on campus when you go to visit, talk to staff and ask them anything and EVERYTHING you want to know.
Great for these types of students
JU is great for students studying the arts and sciences, also athletics and ROTC are big here. If you like a small school feel and the ability to build life-long friendships, JU is the place for you.

Lauren from Columbia, SC

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The campus is outstanding with our president constantly trying to improve things. There aren't many food options on campus, however, with the complaints coming from students, student government is trying to fix the issue. Overall, campus life and everything you can be involved in is great and JU gives a great college experience.
Tips for prospective students
Do not slack off your freshman year. I came in from taking Honors and AP courses in high school and thought that I knew everything but I didn't and my grades showed for it. Don't be afraid to ask for help, there are so many people around campus who are willing to help with anything - literally. I also advise to get to know your professor, the professor will know who you are for sure but it is important to build some kind of bond.
Academic Rigor
JU strives to increase your knowledge in all aspects. Professors do challenge you and some may not. JU offers ways to complain about professors that are not helpful and greatly take into consideration on student replies. Depending on your major, course load can be quite heavy at times but professor do not give you more than you can handle.
Dorm Life
Dorm life has tremendously improved. They shut down all of the old dorms and recently built a new dorm only for freshmen. The new dorm reminds me of a hotel or apartment and the rooms are really nice. On campus apartments are really nice as well. They have started free laundry this year, which is great. In the other dorm on campus, which houses freshmen-seniors, there is a place to eat at the bottom and they have included Greek housing on the 5th level. The only thing I would say that would be a downfall is that the freshmen dorm has community style bathrooms while the other dorm has a shared bathroom between two rooms. However, the freshman dorm comes with a kitchen on every level, while the other dorm does not.
Food and Dining

There aren't many options. We have the cafe, Chick Fil A, Einsteins, and what we call Waves. We recently opened up a River House which has meals as well as beer and wine (to those 21 or up). Many complain that the food there is expensive though, so not many people go. We recently switched vendors so the food situation is being worked on but people still complain. I personally do not think the food is that bad but I do wish there were other options on where to eat.
What to do for fun
There are so many different events that happen at JU. Our athletic games are always fun to go do and we get the student section to participate and different activities during and between breaks. JU also has free concerts every now and then that are free to students. Outside of JU, there are many things to do. The beach is about 20mins away and we are 10mins away from downtown. Once a year, we also get discounted tickets to the Jags game and the school provides transportation.
Bang for the buck
JU offers such a close knit family atmosphere. Faculty get to know you very well and those working around campus get to know your name and greet you when they see you. My freshmen year, I met a janitor, a cafe worker, and someone in student solutions who still to this day stop and talk to me whenever I am seen. They make sure that you are alright and you always have someone to talk to. We also offer a place where you can talk to someone about your problems and the best part is - they have a 0 gravity massage chair (BEST THING EVER) that you can use whenever the door is open.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There aren't any unusual locations but we do have a really cool walk through going through the woods that leads down to the MSRI building. That building is there for all of those who are majoring in marine science.
Great for these types of students
There is a free tutoring center which well tutor you in just about anything if you need help. Also, if you can't afford a book, your professor will usually put a copy of the textbook in the library on reserve so that anybody who needs it is able to use the book to complete their work. The library also extended its hours during Finals week, which is a great plus because it used to close way too soon.
Clubs and Activities
JU offers many many many different clubs and activities. There is literally one for whatever you want to do and if there isn't, you can always start one. That would be the great thing about going here because it isn't hard for someone to start their own club or activity on campus.
Greek Life
Greek life is awesome here. I am not apart of Greek life but I do know many people that are in Greek life and they seem to enjoy it very well. Everyone I know is very nice and many of them do not treat you like an outsider for not being in Greek life. I do live in an apartment with a sorority and they are some of the nicest people I've met.
Campus Safety
The campus closes off to the public at 6pm every day and everyone must go through the front gate and check in with security. It is a gated campus, which is great to keep other people out. We also have security checks a few times through the year to make sure that students receive emails, texts, and calls for when a intruder is on campus. Campus security are really nice people as well but be careful onto where you park on campus (they definitely don't mind handing out parking tickets).

Chunia from Indianapolis, IN

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Jacksonville University is the home to a diverse student body, but the schools variety does not stop there. Jacksonville has various social, cultural, greek, religious, performance arts, and other service organizations. The Jacksonville University Dolphins are represented by 21 different Division 1 athletic teams as well. Jacksonville University has a beautiful campus, with staff and students dedicated to keeping it clean. There is always something going on at Jacksonville University and the smaller campus will leave you feeling like everyone knows your name!
Tips for prospective students
Prospective students should look into getting involved around campus in some manner. The campus is small, and networking has outstanding potential. With student involvement, prospective students are sure to excel academically and socially. Take the time to get involved on campus. There are several opportunities for you to make a difference at JU, take advantage while you can.
Academic Rigor
With small class sizes, the private institution allows for Professors to know students by name. This is highly helpful when questions or concerns about subject matter come to mind, as professors are readily available to help. The majority of the professors are willing to help students at all hours, but it is recommended to visit during their office hours. Students can keep up with their academic progress with academic audits that will keep them up to date with necessary classes for any particular major.
Dorm Life
Relatively new renovations have been made to housing making living spaces extremely comfortable. Size and spacing of the rooms are not small, still allowing room for plenty of creativity for students to make their living space feel like home. Most importantly, living areas are extremely clean, and extermination services are offered for free for those that are not accustomed to Florida insects.
Food and Dining
Food and dining areas are under serious renovations and many new things are to come as far as the dining experience. Jacksonville University is partnered with Sodexo in order to continuously make the student body happier with their eating experience. We not only have Sodexo on campus, but we also have Chick-fil-A on campus, Einstein Bagel, not to mention the staff at Waves makes an amazing sandwich at your request during those late night study sessions.
What to do for fun
With the small town feel on campus, it is easy to know a familiar face. This creates plenty of fun when one is looking for something to do on a Friday night. There will be many choices of athletic events, on campus socials, and off campus night-life.
Bang for the buck
Jacksonville University is an extremely recognized University and is an awesome institution for those that are wishing to have a prosperous future. Jacksonville University has the connection to their students that other intuitions do not, because many colleges do not take the time to know their students on a personal level. Do to this connection, many students are hired immediately after college in their field of study; and often students are asked to work at the institution while working toward their masters.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Jacksonville University sits along a beautiful riverfront where one may see actual Dolphins swimming about. The 190-acre campus has paths guided by large oak trees and a mix of historic and modern buildings. Jacksonville Univeristy allows students to take a load off at a plethora of benches available in many areas decorated with flowers and water fountains. The beautiful campus appears as though the maintenance workers never sleep!
Great for these types of students
Hard working students wishing to make their mark at an institution that is continuously developing for the better, are sure to excel at Jacksonville Univeristy.
Clubs and Activities
It is recommended that one is involved in at least one club or extracurricular activity, and there are plenty to chose from that will allow one to feel they belong. Jacksonville University allows you to relax by the pool, experience Jacksonville history and has several extras to take your mind off of becoming home sick.
Greek Life
A diverse group of greek life is available at student request. Check out the JU website, go to the club & org fair, sign up for Greek recruitment, or attend an event! Whatever you decide, just get involved.
Campus Safety
Campus safety is extremely valued and handled in a serious manner. Campus security has options to send you alerts in case of emergency via cellphone or e-mail, and officers stand guard at the front gate as well. While some officers protect from the front gate, we also have some who ride bikes around the campus grounds to keep the campus safe.

Sabrina from Jacksonville , FL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I learn so much better here than I would elsewhere; the teachers take care of you if you take advantage of their office hours and the other students are surprisingly willing to help you out. The small class sizes also facilitate easier learning.
Am enjoying being here
I love my professors they're entertaining and they care about students. Being in honors and nursing gave me an in with a lot of different people so I have made a whole bunch of new friends. The campus is gorgeous it does not even look like Jacksonville here and it's small enough to walk across in ten minutes but big enough that you have plenty of places to go and hang out without even having to leave campus.
Bang for the buck
I am here for nursing and even with my full ride it gets pricey sometimes, but it is also recognized as the best nursing program in the entire state and you get a lot of experience.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for the honors program. It may be more work but they offer great scholarships and you are guaranteed to have fun.
Great for these types of students
This school is great for anyone who does not enjoy sitting in a room with 50 other students trying to learn. The class sizes are just like high school (10- maybe 30 student) and you have professors who genuinely care about their students' success and are always willing to help you out.

Meaghan from Jacksonville, FL

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
At Jacksonville University, I am not only learning a ton for my major and minor degrees but I am also learning about finances and expenses. JU has helped me mature more and be more prepared to start life independently when I am ready.
Am enjoying being here
JU is a great campus for an atmosphere of studying. There are plenty of benches in the gardens and even a spot down at the river that students can peacefully study at. The campus also has plenty of things to do if you are a student with free time. There is a campus theatre, gym for working out, gymnasium for playing sports, basketball courts, swimming pool, baseball/softball field, volleyball nets, an art museum, music lounge, and a football field. There are clubs and groups that students can join for extra fun as well. For example, the Rowing Team and the Inner Varsity Bible Study group. Not only this, but JU also of course has concerts, game days, musicals and plays that JU students can attend for free. It's a wonderful active campus that students will never get bored at.
Bang for the buck
If saving money is what your all about, JU can help you out. This university allows all JU students to attend any event JU students host for free. From football games to concerts, JU students don't have to pay a penny to watch.
Tips for prospective students
One thing I would stress to a prospective student is that college is not all fun and games. There is a lot of responsibility on your plate. You no longer have your typical high school teacher forcing due dates upon you and asking if you need any help on your projects. Most college professors give you the material and don't see it until the day you turn it in. They are very willing to help though, but you have to be the one to step up and ask. Don't be afraid to ask for help or go to the tutoring room! Be on time and study hard! Good luck!
Great for these types of students
JU is a great campus for sororities and fraternities! Though I am not in one, I have plenty of friends who are. They tell me all the time about their get together's and fun activities that their sorority or fraternity do.