About Alvernia University
The money picture looks reasonable for a private Catholic university. While the sticker price hits $42,810 for tuition, most students pay much less after aid, with an average net price of $28,329. Graduates earn a median of $55,055 ten years after starting school, which helps justify the typical debt load of $27,000. The monthly loan payment of $286 is manageable given those earning levels, and 98% of graduates find employment.
Students should know this campus skews heavily female at 63% women to 37% men. The graduation rates tell a mixed story, with 61% finishing in four years but only 58% completing their degree within six years. The 73% retention rate suggests some students struggle to stick it out, though those who do generally find good job prospects after graduation.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 60.8%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 58.5%
- Retention Rate
- 72.6%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $55,055
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $64,553 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Master | $63,600 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $60,878 |
| Education, General. | Master | $48,823 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $45,500 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $42,682 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $42,682 |
| Marketing. | Bachelor | $42,682 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $39,832 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $38,289 |
Campus Life
Reading is a small city of about 95,000 people, so you're not in a college town but you're not in a major metropolitan area either. Most students stay on campus during weekends, especially since 69% come from Pennsylvania and many are within driving distance of home. The 12:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name, and with 611 students playing varsity sports out of 2,042 total enrollment, athletics play a big role in campus life. The Golden Wolves compete in 23 Division III sports, so games draw decent crowds. Students often hang out in the student center or participate in the many clubs and organizations that help fill weekend time.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Housing Capacity
- 956 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1958
Campus Safety (2023)
14 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Fondling | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 23°–38°F
- July Avg
- 65°–86°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 45.2"
- Annual Snowfall
- 27.2"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 36.9%
- Women
- 63.1%
- White
- 61.1%
- Black
- 10.4%
- Hispanic
- 15.3%
- Asian
- 1.5%
- In-State Students
- 69.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 33.7%
Location
- Address
- Reading, Pennsylvania 19607-1799
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $55,055
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $59,530
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $38,500
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 62.3%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Alvernia University?
Alvernia University admits 59% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Students typically need SAT scores around 1083 to be competitive. The Franciscan Catholic institution values both academic achievement and community service in its admissions process.
How much does Alvernia University cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Alvernia University is $28,329 after aid, less than the sticker price of $59,400. About 34% of students receive Pell Grants, and the school provides substantial institutional aid. Graduates leave with a median debt of $27,000.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Alvernia University?
Alvernia University maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio with just over 2,000 students enrolled. The small class sizes reflect the university's commitment to personalized education rooted in Franciscan values. Students work closely with professors in programs known for nursing, business, and education.
Does Alvernia University have good job outcomes for graduates?
Alvernia University achieves a 98% employment rate for graduates, with median earnings of $55,055 ten years after graduation. However, only 58.5% of students graduate within six years. The university's career services and alumni network help students transition into healthcare, business, and education careers.
Where is Alvernia University located and what is campus life like?
Alvernia University sits in Reading, Pennsylvania, a small city setting that provides both suburban feel and urban opportunities. The campus houses 956 students, creating a tight-knit community atmosphere. Women make up 63% of the student body, and 69% of students come from Pennsylvania.
How strong are athletics at Alvernia University?
Alvernia University fields 23 varsity sports as the Golden Wolves in NCAA Division III competition. With 611 total athletes, nearly 30% of the student body participates in varsity athletics. The university does not offer athletic scholarships, emphasizing the student-athlete experience over recruitment.
