In an effort to assess the nature, scope, and consequences of alcohol and other drug use on Furman’s campus, the Division of Student Life collects data each fall semester by administering the Core Alcohol and Drug Survey. This survey was created in 1989 and expanded in 1994 by the Core Institute at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

What’s the “Norm” at Furman University in 2019?

  • 18% of all FU students do not drink alcohol.
  • 31% of all FU students have not drunk alcohol in the past 30 days.
  • Furman average drinks per week = 2.8; national average = 4.1.
  • 88% of all FU students have not used tobacco in the past 30 days.
  • 81% of all FU students have not used marijuana in the past 30 days.
  • 99% of all FU students report that Furman has alcohol and drug policies.
  • 85% of students indicate the campus is concerned about the prevention of alcohol use and drug abuse.
  • 24% of students indicate they would prefer not to have alcohol available at parties.
  • 83% of students indicate they would prefer not to have drugs available at parties.

Summary Reports

The Core Alcohol and Drug Survey was developed to measure alcohol and other drug usage, attitudes, and perceptions among college students at two and four-year institutions. Development of this survey was funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The survey includes several types of items about drugs and alcohol. One type deals with the students’ attitudes, perceptions, and opinions about alcohol and other drugs, and the other deals with the students’ own use and consequences of use. There are also several items on students’ demographic and background characteristics as well as the perception of campus climate issues and policy.