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Private for-profit, 4-year

Full Sail University

Winter Park, Florida · www.fullsail.edu

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Tuition per year

$26,906

$47,978 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

25,777

Student-faculty ratio 32:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

44.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 44.8%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Full Sail University, located in Winter Park, Florida, is a renowned institution that specializes in entertainment, media, arts, and technology. Established in 1979, Full Sail has garnered a reputation for its hands-on approach to education, allowing students to engage in practical experiences that mirror real-world scenarios. The university's motto, "A New Kind of University," reflects its commitment to innovative teaching methods and the incorporation of cutting-edge technology in its curriculum. Full Sail offers a variety of degree programs, including film, music production, game design, and digital art, catering to the diverse interests of students passionate about creative industries.

The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including recording studios, sound stages, and simulation labs, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen fields. Full Sail emphasizes collaboration and creativity, fostering a vibrant community where students can work together on projects and build networks that will benefit them in their future careers. The university also has a strong focus on career services and alumni support, helping graduates transition into the workforce and maintain connections within their industries. With a diverse student body and a culture that celebrates creativity, Full Sail University remains a leading choice for aspiring professionals in the fields of entertainment and media.

Analysis of Full Sail University Data Trends

The data from Full Sail University reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention which are crucial for understanding the university's evolving landscape.

Firstly, tuition fees have shown a steady increase over the years, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $22,046 in 2014 to about $26,417 in 2024, marking a climb of nearly 20%. This relentless rise in costs can be a barrier for prospective students, especially considering the financial strains faced by many families. It is essential for educational institutions to balance these increases with the value of education provided.

Moreover, the graduation rates exhibit a concerning pattern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates plummeted from about 80% in 2013 to a mere 23% in 2019, before modestly recovering to around 46% in 2023. This decline could indicate challenges in student support or curriculum effectiveness, which may ultimately affect the university's reputation and attractivity to future students.

Retention rates, however, provide a more optimistic picture, bouncing back from a low of about 50% in 2014 to around 76% in 2023. High retention rates suggest that once students enroll, they are likely to stay, which might correlate with improvements in student services and engagement initiatives.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied, peaking at 36 in 2022 before slightly declining to 34 in 2023. A lower ratio often enhances learning experiences by allowing for more personalized attention, which is vital for student success.

In conclusion, while Full Sail University has made strides in student retention, the alarming trends in tuition hikes and graduation rates warrant attention. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution to maintain its competitive edge and fulfill its educational mission.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Orlando, about 15 mi
Nearest international airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO), about 10 mi
Winter Park, Florida
Academic calendar
Other
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Edward E. Haddock Jr. (CEO/Co-Chairman)
Phone
4076790100
City
Winter Park, Florida
Address
3300 University Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32792-7429

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1,9350 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's4,3442 international (0.0%)
Master's8181 international (0.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Human Computer Interaction
483
Digital Arts
366
Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians, Other
364
Intermedia/Multimedia
304
Design and Applied Arts, Other
297
Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Other
282
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies, Other
282
Music Technology
263
Film/Cinema/Media Studies
220
Communications Technology/Technician
197

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, Other · Master's158 (1% international)
  • Human Computer Interaction · Master's139 (0% international)
  • Marketing/Marketing Management, General · Master's95 (0% international)
  • Design and Visual Communications, General · Master's92 (0% international)
  • Film/Cinema/Media Studies · Master's68 (0% international)
  • Educational/Instructional Technology · Master's54 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data at Full Sail University in 2023

The graduation data from Full Sail University for 2023 reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Audiovisual Communications Technologies, with 382 graduates, highlighting the university's prominence in this creative domain. This aligns with the growing demand for multimedia professionals in today's digital landscape, where content creation and audiovisual communication are essential skills.

In the realm of master's degrees, Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management leads with 156 graduates, indicating a robust interest in managerial roles within creative industries. This is particularly relevant as the entertainment sector continues to expand, especially following the pandemic's impact, which has shifted many businesses towards online platforms and digital experiences.

Interestingly, the data shows that while the number of associate degrees awarded is relatively low across most programs, the Computer Engineering Technologies and Technician programs recorded significant figures, with 167 graduates. This suggests a strong inclination among students towards technical and engineering fields, likely driven by the increasing reliance on technology in various sectors.

Moreover, the absence of international students graduating in many programs underscores the challenges faced by educational institutions in attracting a diverse student body post-pandemic. As universities adapt to changing dynamics, particularly in areas like global mobility and online learning, it will be crucial to implement strategies that enhance international enrollment.

Overall, Full Sail University's graduation data reflects broader trends in education and employment, with creative and technical fields witnessing a surge in interest. As industries evolve, the university's focus on these areas positions its graduates favorably in the job market.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Visual and Performing artshas 3002 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Digital Arts.$26,332-$30,071
Design and Visual Communications, General.$27,590-$48,146
Design and Applied Arts, Other.$27,590-$48,146
Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other.$38,704
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.$28,554-$33,643
Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Other.$28,554-$33,643
Intermedia/Multimedia.$27,721-$27,960
Music Technology.$30,177-$33,026
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, General.$28,493-$36,700
Music Management.$28,493-$36,700
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management, Other.$28,493-$36,700
Visual and Performing Arts, Other.-
Communications technologies has 885 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Communications Technology/Technician.$23,204-$30,622
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician.$37,886-$44,955
Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians, Other.$37,886-$44,955
Communications Technologies/Technicians and Support Services, Other.-
Computer and information sciencehas 683 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Artificial Intelligence.-
Human-Centered Technology Design.-
Computer Programming, Other.$58,198
Computer Science.$53,340
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.$44,865-$60,538
Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other.$44,865-$60,538
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 650 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computational Science.-
Human Computer Interaction.$32,255-$40,693
Engineering technologieshas 590 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other.$42,042-$59,250
English has 390 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies, Other.$21,509-$39,397
Communication has 360 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Communication and Media Studies, Other.$26,022-$33,743
Journalism.$43,296
Public Relations/Image Management.$41,638-$47,593
Sports Communication.$41,638-$47,593
Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other.-
Businesshas 304 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$37,987
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.$42,992
Knowledge Management.$69,141
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$44,362-$51,445
Engineeringhas 179 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer Software Engineering.$37,939-$69,733
Educationhas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Educational/Instructional Technology.$63,948

Students

27,169 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 67:33 · Freshman retention 53.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (25,777)

White
9,013 · 35.0%
Black
8,240 · 32.0%
Hispanic
5,042 · 19.6%
Two or more races
1,753 · 6.8%
Unknown
1,018 · 3.9%
Asian
452 · 1.8%
International
2 · 0.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.1%
18–19
7.7%
20–21
12.1%
22–24
15.8%
25 and over
64.3%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.2%
22–24
11.9%
25–29
27.9%
30–34
19.3%
35 and over
38.7%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Full Sail University Students in 2023

The student composition at Full Sail University for the year 2023 reveals intriguing trends in gender and diversity across different academic categories. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a substantial male presence, with 70.1% of students identifying as male, while female representation stands at 29.9%. This gender ratio is consistent across the undergraduate senior and transfer categories, where males account for approximately 69.5% and 64.3%, respectively. Such a skew towards male students might reflect broader trends in certain fields of study, particularly in technology and engineering, where male enrollment tends to dominate.

Interestingly, the graduate student demographic shows a shift, with a more balanced gender ratio of 55.1% male and 44.9% female. This could indicate a growing interest among women in pursuing advanced degrees, potentially signaling positive changes in gender representation in higher education.

Examining racial and ethnic diversity, the data suggests a significant majority of students are white, particularly in the undergraduate categories. However, the presence of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latino, and African American students, is an essential consideration for fostering an inclusive educational environment. The lack of detailed statistics for these subcategories in the graduate level data may highlight an area for further inquiry and improvement.

Overall, while Full Sail University exhibits a diverse student body, the prominent gender disparities and the need for increased racial diversity remain crucial areas for attention. Institutions must continue to create supportive environments that encourage participation from underrepresented groups, ultimately enriching the educational experience for all students.

Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at Full Sail University

The age distribution of students at Full Sail University reveals a diverse and dynamic educational environment. The data indicates a significant presence of younger students, particularly those aged 18-24, which is consistent with trends seen across many universities in the United States. This age group comprises a large percentage of the total enrollment, highlighting the institution's appeal to traditional college-aged individuals.

Interestingly, the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets also show robust enrollment figures, suggesting that Full Sail attracts a considerable number of non-traditional students who may be looking to advance their careers or change paths through higher education. This aligns with the growing trend of lifelong learning and upskilling among adults in today's job market, particularly in creative and technology-driven fields.

However, the data also points to a notable decline in enrollment for students aged 40 and above, indicating potential barriers for older individuals seeking to further their education. This could be a reflection of various factors, including financial considerations, family responsibilities, or a lack of targeted outreach by institutions to this demographic.

Moreover, gender representation in the student body reveals a slight male majority, particularly in undergraduate programs. This pattern is not uncommon in many technical and creative fields, where male enrollment often exceeds that of females. The university might consider initiatives to encourage more female participation, especially in programs traditionally dominated by men, to foster a more balanced and inclusive educational environment.

Overall, Full Sail University's age composition demonstrates a vibrant blend of youth and maturity, reflective of broader societal trends toward education and career advancement.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

2 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.1%2017: 1.0%2018: 0.7%2019: 0.5%2020: 0.2%2021: 0.1%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.1%

1 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.5%2017: 1.4%2018: 1.0%2019: 1.2%2020: 0.6%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.4%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.1%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Full Sail University

The data on international student enrollment at Full Sail University reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students in undergraduate programs peaked at nearly 4% in 2011, coinciding with a substantial increase in total undergraduate enrollment. However, this proportion has dramatically declined since then, plummeting to just 0.02% in 2023, a stark contrast to earlier years.

In the graduate program, the situation appears similarly troubling. Although the number of international graduate students reached its highest in 2011, with a 6.31% representation, this figure has also dwindled in subsequent years. By 2023, the percentage of international graduate students had decreased to 0.25%, reflecting a broader trend observed in many U.S. universities amidst shifting immigration policies and increased competition from institutions abroad.

The decline in international student enrollment can have far-reaching implications for Full Sail University, potentially affecting its cultural diversity, global reputation, and financial stability, as international students often pay higher tuition fees. As universities adapt to these changing dynamics, it is critical for institutions like Full Sail to explore strategies to attract and retain international talent, maintaining their competitive edge in the global education landscape. This trend hints at a need for a reassessment of recruitment strategies to foster a more welcoming environment for international students, which is essential for both academic and institutional growth.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$47,978

Undergraduate tuition
$26,906
Room and board
$21,072
Graduate tuition
$19,401
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 151%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$586M

Tuition and fees
$580M99.0%
Investment return
$1.9M0.3%
Other
$3.8M0.6%

Expenses$487M

Instruction
$158M32.4%
Academic support
$71.7M14.7%
Student services
$50.5M10.4%
Institutional support
$33.3M6.9%
Other
$173M35.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$53,728peers $68,006
Professor
$61,258peers $78,041
Associate professor
$44,713peers $70,202

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes Other
2025
Other MENWOMEN
Other Sports--
2024
OtherMENWOMEN
Other Sports--
2023
OtherMENWOMEN
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Full Sail University:

  1. University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is renowned for its exceptional academic programs and research initiatives.

  2. University of Central Florida - With a ranking of 124, UCF offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it one of the largest universities in the U.S.

  3. University of South Florida - This university is ranked 89th and is known for its commitment to research and innovative teaching methods.

  4. Florida Institute of Technology - Ranked 269th, this comprehensive university specializes in engineering, science, and technology programs.

  5. Florida State University - With a ranking of 53, it is one of the oldest universities in Florida, known for its strong arts and sciences programs.

  6. University of Miami - Located in Miami, this prestigious institution is ranked 67th and offers a wide range of programs, especially in health and sciences.

These schools contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the region, providing diverse opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
2
Burglary
1
Motor vehicle theft
1
Weapons arrests
1
Weapons referrals
1
Stalking
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Crime Trends at Full Sail University: A Positive Decline

The crime statistics at Full Sail University over the years present a notable trend toward a decrease in crime rates, which is commendable. Starting from 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was at 0.13, which gradually escalated to 1.11 in 2016. This peak year saw significant incidents, particularly related to gun arrests and drug-related offenses. However, following this peak, there has been a marked decline in crime rates, with the numbers dropping to as low as 0.01 in 2023.

The reduction in violent crimes and other serious offenses, such as theft and drug arrests, indicates that the university has likely implemented effective safety measures and community outreach programs. The data shows a consistent decline in serious issues, with only minor incidents recorded in the last few years, reflecting a safe environment for students.

This positive trend aligns with broader national efforts to improve campus safety and reduce crime, which has been a priority for universities across the United States. It is essential for institutions like Full Sail University to continue fostering a supportive and secure atmosphere for their students, as safety is a critical factor for prospective students when choosing an educational institution.

Overall, the decreasing crime rates at Full Sail University are a promising indicator of enhanced safety and security on campus, making it an appealing choice for students seeking a conducive learning environment. For further details on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Full Sail University include Kaká (Former Brazilian professional footballer), Alex Vincent (Actor, played Andy Barclay in the Child's Play franchise) and Darren Lynn Bouseman (Horror film director of several Saw films).

More alumni (14, by field)

Business

  • Viktor Prokopenya 1983–

    Belarusian-British technology entrepreneur and investor

Arts and media

  • Gary Rizzo 1972–

    Re-recording mixer at Skywalker Sound

  • Machinedrum 1982–

    Electronic record producer and performer

  • E. L. Katz 1981–

    Film director, producer and screenwriter

  • FKi 1st

    Rapper and record producer

  • Marcella Araica 2000–

    Recording and mixing engineer

  • Mohammad Alavi 1985–

    Video game developer on the Call of Duty series

    Also attended: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

  • Devvon Terrell 1988–

    Singer, rapper and producer known for YouTube remixes

  • Sebastian Krys 1970–

    Record producer, eight-time Grammy winner

  • DJ Swivel 1984–

    Canadian record producer and Grammy winner

  • Soufiane El Khalidy 1987–

    French-Moroccan actor, filmmaker and writer

  • Christine D'Clario 1982–

    Christian singer, songwriter and worship leader

  • Bre-Z 1987–

    Actress and rapper known for Empire

Sports

  • Scott Stenzel 1980–

    Professional stock car racing driver

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.