University of St. Francis fares well on student engagement surveys

JOLIET, Ill. – University of St. Francis (USF) students recently participated in a survey conducted by the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). NSSE works to document the dimensions of quality in undergraduate education and provides information and assistance to colleges, universities and other organizations to improve student learning. The data allows institutions to enhance accountability and accreditation efforts and facilitate national and sector benchmarking efforts, among other things.

Said Rebecca Garland, assistant director for institutional research at USF, “The NSSE survey instrument helps us to better understand undergraduate student engagement at USF. We have administered the survey several times since 2004, allowing us to implement changes and see positive improvements in student experiences over time. Our scores have improved, and in many instances, surpassed those of other NSSE institutions, affirming our commitment to providing a top quality university experience for our students both in and out of the classroom.”

Questions pertained to academics, faculty and peer interactions, co-curricular activities and the overall USF environment. The survey indicated highest student satisfaction with USF’s supportive campus environment and levels of academic challenge. First year students polled felt strongly that USF places substantial emphasis on academics, provides substantial support for academic success and provides a good or excellent academic experience. They also felt that USF’s faculty is accessible and supportive, and that their peers are friendly and give them a sense of belonging. 

The University of St. Francis in Joliet serves 3,400 students nationwide, offering undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs in arts and science, business, education, nursing and health care and social work. For information, call (800) 735-7500 or visit www.stfrancis.edu.