Prospective students contemplating enrollment at Full Sail University should carefully consider several key questions: Is Full Sail University reputable? Does the cost of tuition justify the investment? How does Full Sail University stack up against other higher education institutions? This article delves into Full Sail's accreditation, tuition fees, and a comparative analysis with other universities to provide insights into these crucial queries.
Tuition
Full Sail University adopts a distinctive tuition structure compared to traditional colleges and universities. Instead of semester or annual fees, tuition is calculated on a per-credit-hour basis. As a result, the total cost varies based on the number of credit hours a student enrolls in. On average, Full Sail charges $795 per credit hour, resulting in an approximate total of $95,000 for a complete degree program.
While the tuition may appear substantial, it's crucial to note that most programs at Full Sail University span just 30 weeks. This accelerated timeline allows students to earn their degrees in half the duration of a typical four-year university program. Furthermore, Full Sail provides numerous scholarships and financial aid options aimed at mitigating the overall cost of tuition.
Accreditation
Full Sail University holds full accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that Full Sail University meets the same rigorous standards as other higher education institutions across the nation.
Full Sail University is affiliated with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a respected regional accreditation agency acknowledged by the Department of Education. This affiliation confirms that Full Sail University's credits and degrees are transferable and recognized by other colleges and universities.
The Alvarez & Marsal Institute for Research and Education (A&M) at Full Sail University holds accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). This accreditation ensures that Full Sail University's business programs adhere to national standards equivalent to those of other accredited business programs in the United States.
Full Sail University's Digital Arts & Design, Entertainment Business, Film & Video, Game Art, and Game Design programs hold accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). This accreditation ensures that these programs adhere to national standards comparable to other art and design programs across the country.
Full Sail University's Game Development program holds accreditation from both the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). This dual accreditation confirms that Full Sail University's game development program meets rigorous standards equivalent to those of other accredited game development programs in the United States.
Furthermore, in addition to its accreditations, Full Sail University is licensed by the State of Florida, indicating that it complies with all state regulations necessary for operating as a postsecondary educational institution.
Tuition Breakdown
The tuition rates mentioned encompass all expenses for the entire degree program, covering books, software, and other necessary materials. These figures pertain specifically to on-campus programs and do not encompass living expenses.
Fees Structures
Undergraduate Programs
Computer Animation
$792/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$95,000 Degree Total
Computer Science
$783/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$94,000 Degree Total
Creative Writing
$608/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$73,000 Degree Total
Cybersecurity Completion*
$808/Credit Hour
60 Credit Hours
$48,500 Degree Total
Digital Arts & Design
$783/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$94,000 Degree Total
Entertainment Business
$608/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$73,000 Degree Total
Film
$783/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$94,000 Degree Total
Game Art
$783/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$94,000 Degree Total
Game Business & Esports
$604/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$72,500 Degree Total
Game Design
$783/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$94,000 Degree Total
Game Development
$783/Credit Hour
120 Credit Hours
$94,000 Degree Total
Graduate Programs
Entertainment Business
$916/Credit Hour
41.5 Credit Hours
$38,000 Degree Total
Entertainment Business w/ Sports Management
$916/Credit Hour
41.5 Credit Hours
$38,000 Degree Total
Film Production
$621/Credit Hour
58 Credit Hours
$36,000 Degree Total
Game Design
$867/Credit Hour
41.5 Credit Hours
$36,000 Degree Total
Certificates
3-D Arts Undergraduate Certificate
$477/Credit Hour
22 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Application Development Fundamentals Undergraduate Certificate
$457/Credit Hour
23 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Audio Arts Undergraduate Certificate
$477/Credit Hour
22 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Business Undergraduate Certificate
$477/Credit Hour
22 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Computer Science Undergraduate Certificate
$457/Credit Hour
23 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Creative Writing Undergraduate Certificate
$500/Credit Hour
21 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Film & Video Undergraduate Certificate
$477/Credit Hour
22 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Game Business & Esports Undergraduate Certificate
$525/Credit Hour
20 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
Game Design Undergraduate Certificate
$477/Credit Hour
22 Credit Hours
$10,500 Degree Total
What makes Full Sail University different?
Full Sail University distinguishes itself from other universities in several notable ways.
Firstly, Full Sail University stands out for offering accredited programs in digital arts and design, game development, and entertainment business—unique among universities nationwide.
Secondly, tuition at Full Sail University covers all costs for the entire degree program, including books, software, and other materials.
Thirdly, Full Sail University is licensed by the State of Florida, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations for operating as a postsecondary educational institution.
Fourthly, Full Sail University features a distinctive mentorship program where each student is paired with an industry professional, providing valuable guidance and insights into their chosen field.
Fifthly, Full Sail University's campus in Orlando, Florida, positions students in a vibrant hub of the entertainment industry.
Orlando's strategic location near Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other prominent attractions makes it an ideal setting for pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.
What are the benefits of attending Full Sail University?
Attending Full Sail University offers numerous benefits.
Firstly, Full Sail University’s tuition prices encompass all expenses for the entire degree program, including books, software, and other materials, offering significant cost savings for students.
Secondly, Full Sail University’s mentorship program connects each student with an industry professional, providing valuable insights and career guidance.
Thirdly, Full Sail University's campus in Orlando, Florida, situates students in a prime location within the entertainment industry hub, near Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other major attractions.
Fourthly, Full Sail University’s programs are accredited by the State of Florida, meeting all regulatory requirements for operation as a postsecondary educational institution.
Therefore, graduates of Full Sail University will hold a degree that is widely recognized by employers throughout the country.
What are some of the negative aspects of Full Sail University?
Although Full Sail University boasts several positive aspects, there are also a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, due to its specialization in digital arts and design, game development, and entertainment business, tuition fees at Full Sail University tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
Full Sail University, situated in Orlando, Florida, faces the challenge of a relatively high cost of living in the area. Additionally, because Full Sail University’s programs are accredited by the State of Florida, students are required to pass state exams as a graduation requirement.
Furthermore, these exams can impose financial and time burdens on students. Additionally, as a relatively new university, Full Sail University may not command the same level of reputation as more established institutions nationwide, potentially posing challenges for graduates in securing employment post-graduation.
In summary, Full Sail University stands out as an excellent option for students aspiring to enter the entertainment industry. Its accredited programs, industry-mentorship opportunities, and Orlando location position it as a premier choice for those pursuing careers in this field. However, prospective students should consider the expenses associated with tuition and living in Orlando, as well as the time required for state exams upon graduation.