Goodwin University
Goodwin University is a private nonprofit university in East Hartford, CT ranked #1771 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C, and enrolling about 2,761 undergraduates. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions.
Academically, students benefit from a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, and 58.3% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $28,544, about $11,546 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -64.8%, roughly 150.1 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $40,230. That's about $3,458 below national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Goodwin University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Goodwin University graduates 58.3% of students within six years and does not report first-year retention. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Goodwin University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $21,198 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $6,200 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $5,772 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $39,745 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 48.4% of Goodwin University students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $27,515 to $27,319 depending on family income. Use Goodwin University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $35,472/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $27,319/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $40,230
- 10-Year Median Earnings $40,230
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $14,221
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 34.2%
- Employment Rate 16.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Goodwin University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Goodwin University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Goodwin University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Goodwin University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Goodwin University graduates earn $40,230 median, the -64.8% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 2,761
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate Not reported
- Graduation Rate 58.3%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 14:1
How to Get Into Goodwin University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Goodwin University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of Not reported, Goodwin University is selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Goodwin University undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences,, and Business Administration, Management and Operations draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 48.0%
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, 13.6%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 8.5%
- Public Health 7.3%
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Ser 5.1%
- Human Services, General 5.1%
See more majors
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 4.0%
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research 3.4%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Associate Degree Programs
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $101,664
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $85,977
- 3. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions $68,987
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions $66,691
- 5. Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other $58,757
- 6. Dental Support Services and Allied Professions $58,397
- 7. Human Services, General $49,492
- 8. Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions $48,666
- 9. Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other $48,291
- 10. Funeral Service and Mortuary Science $45,261
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $101,664—125% more than Funeral Service and Mortuary Science ($45,261). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Goodwin University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degree, 178 graduates)
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other (Associate's Degree, 157 graduates)
- Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, 131 graduates)
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other (Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma, 40 graduates)
- Dental Support Services and Allied Professions (Associate's Degree, 38 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (11 programs)▼
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Public Health
- Human Services, General
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Social Work
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (16 programs)▼
- Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Human Services, General
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Business/Commerce, General
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians
- Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians
- Accounting and Related Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 2,761
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 13.3%
- Female Students 86.7%
- Caucasian 37.2%
- Asian 2.7%
- Hispanic 24.9%
- Black 26.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 48.4%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Goodwin University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Goodwin University's undergraduate population. Women make up 86.7% of the student body, while men represent 13.3%.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Goodwin University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Goodwin University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Goodwin University has a diverse student body, with 37.2% identifying as White. Women make up 86.7% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Goodwin University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Goodwin University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Goodwin University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -64.8% ROI. Ranked #1771 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $28,544 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $40,230 median earnings. With 58.3% graduating within six years and 0.0% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Goodwin University's Positioning
With a C grade and #1771 ranking, Goodwin University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $28,544 annually, Goodwin University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 0.0% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $19,981 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -64.8% ROI and $40,230 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $18,544+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Goodwin University ranks #1771 of 6272 institutions, with 1537 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 58.3% six-year graduation rate sits 4.2 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- -64.8% return on investment is 150.1 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $40,230 run about 8% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $28,544 is roughly $11,426 higher than the national median of $17,118.
- 16.4% employment rate within three years is 51.8 points below the national 68.2%.
Helpfulness for Students
- 14:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 16.4% employment rate within three years sits 51.8 points below national outcomes.
- -64.8% ROI indicates the degree delivers strong value for hands-on majors.
- Average net price of $28,544 is about $11,426 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Goodwin University is a private nonprofit university based in East Hartford, CT and earns a C overall grade. It is currently ranked #1771 nationally Category results include Completion (B), Support (B), Career Outcomes (D-), and Affordability (B-).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Expect about 58.3% of students to graduate within six years. The reported ROI is -64.8%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $28,544 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $39,745.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,201 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $14,221 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 48.4% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $40,230 six years after enrollment. Compared with the national median, that's 8% lower.
Employment outcomes report about 16.4% of alumni working within three years.
The ROI comes in near -64.8%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
This institution has not reported a current acceptance rate.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Goodwin University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address East Hartford, CT 06118
- Website www.goodwin.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Endowment$12.4M