About Arcadia University
Arcadia University brings together 1,799 students on a suburban campus just outside Philadelphia. This private university has built a reputation for health sciences programs, particularly physical therapy and nursing, along with strong study abroad opportunities. The 77% acceptance rate reflects a school that values potential over perfect test scores, welcoming students with SAT scores averaging 1204.
Students pay an average net price of $25,866 after financial aid, less than the sticker price of $48,290. Graduates earn a median of $58,336 ten years after graduation, while carrying typical debt loads of $27,000. The math works reasonably well for most students, especially considering the strong employment rate of 93.6%. Monthly loan payments average $286, manageable given the earning potential in Arcadia's career-focused programs.
The student body skews 63% female, reflecting the university's strength in healthcare fields traditionally dominated by women. With 23 varsity sports and 541 student athletes competing in Division III, nearly one-third of students play organized sports. The 11:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personal attention, while the 80% retention rate suggests most students find their fit quickly on this tight-knit campus.
Students pay an average net price of $25,866 after financial aid, less than the sticker price of $48,290. Graduates earn a median of $58,336 ten years after graduation, while carrying typical debt loads of $27,000. The math works reasonably well for most students, especially considering the strong employment rate of 93.6%. Monthly loan payments average $286, manageable given the earning potential in Arcadia's career-focused programs.
The student body skews 63% female, reflecting the university's strength in healthcare fields traditionally dominated by women. With 23 varsity sports and 541 student athletes competing in Division III, nearly one-third of students play organized sports. The 11:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personal attention, while the 80% retention rate suggests most students find their fit quickly on this tight-knit campus.
Academics & Faculty
Arcadia builds its academic reputation on health sciences and international education, drawing students who want hands-on learning in smaller settings. The 11:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and research interests. Physical therapy, nursing, and occupational therapy programs attract students nationwide for their clinical partnerships and high licensure pass rates. The university requires all undergraduates to study abroad, making it a leader in global education. With a 64% six-year graduation rate, about two-thirds of students complete their degrees, though some struggle with the academic rigor. Education and business programs also draw strong enrollment, while the suburban Philadelphia location provides internship access to major health systems and corporations.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 39.1%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 63.8%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 64.0%
- Retention Rate
- 80.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $58,336
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Public Health. | Master | $77,715 |
| Genetics. | Master | $73,321 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $72,163 |
| Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies. | Master | $62,209 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $59,124 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $52,941 |
| Security Science and Technology. | Master | $51,607 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $50,677 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $48,041 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $47,260 |
Campus Life
Arcadia's Gothic Revival campus sits in suburban Glenside, just 13 miles from downtown Philadelphia. Students need winter coats for Pennsylvania's cold months but enjoy mild springs and warm summers. About 60% of the 1,799 students live in campus housing, creating a tight-knit residential community where the 11:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name.
The university's castle-like Grey Towers mansion serves as the campus centerpiece and appears on every admissions brochure. Students gather there for formal events and photo opportunities. With 541 athletes competing across 23 Division III sports, games draw decent crowds despite no athletic scholarships. The Middle Atlantic Conference keeps rivalries regional. Weekend activities center around Philadelphia excursions, since the city's museums, restaurants, and nightlife are easily accessible by train. Campus traditions include the annual medieval-themed Renaissance Faire, which plays up the castle imagery. The 80.54% retention rate reflects students who appreciate the small-school atmosphere with big-city access.
The university's castle-like Grey Towers mansion serves as the campus centerpiece and appears on every admissions brochure. Students gather there for formal events and photo opportunities. With 541 athletes competing across 23 Division III sports, games draw decent crowds despite no athletic scholarships. The Middle Atlantic Conference keeps rivalries regional. Weekend activities center around Philadelphia excursions, since the city's museums, restaurants, and nightlife are easily accessible by train. Campus traditions include the annual medieval-themed Renaissance Faire, which plays up the castle imagery. The 80.54% retention rate reflects students who appreciate the small-school atmosphere with big-city access.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 1,085 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1853
Campus Safety (2023)
15 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rape | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 24°–39°F
- July Avg
- 66°–85°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 48.6"
- Annual Snowfall
- 7.6"
Student Demographics
Arcadia draws students who value small classes and personal attention, with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio creating an intimate learning environment. The student body is predominantly female at nearly 63%, reflecting the university's strong programs in health sciences, education, and social work. About 62% of students come from Pennsylvania, showing Arcadia's solid regional reputation while still attracting out-of-state students seeking its specialized programs. The campus serves a economically diverse population, with 28% receiving Pell Grants, demonstrating the university's commitment to making private education accessible to middle-class families.
- Men
- 37.2%
- Women
- 62.8%
- White
- 56.0%
- Black
- 14.5%
- Hispanic
- 10.0%
- Asian
- 5.1%
- In-State Students
- 61.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 27.7%
Location
Glenside sits 15 miles north of Philadelphia in Montgomery County. The campus occupies 76 acres in this established suburb that blends residential neighborhoods with small business districts. About 62% of students come from Pennsylvania, drawn to the location between urban opportunities and quieter suburban living. The area offers easy access to Philadelphia's internships and cultural attractions via regional rail, while maintaining the feel of a college-friendly community. Nearby Keswick Village provides shopping and dining within walking distance. The setting appeals to students who want proximity to a major metropolitan area without the intensity of an urban campus. Students considering colleges in Pennsylvania may also compare Arcadia University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Glenside, Pennsylvania 19038-3295
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $58,336
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $57,721
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $36,300
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 67.7%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Arcadia University?
Arcadia University accepts 77.57% of applicants, making it moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1088-1320 on the SAT, reflecting the school's focus on well-rounded admissions rather than just test scores.
How much does Arcadia University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $25,866 after aid, less than the sticker price of $66,040. About 28% of students receive Pell Grants, and those receiving institutional grants average $30,934 in aid from the university.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Arcadia University?
Arcadia maintains an 11:1 student-faculty ratio with just 1,799 total students. This small university environment allows for personalized attention and close mentorship relationships that larger institutions cannot provide.
What do graduates of Arcadia University earn after graduation?
Alumni earn a median of $58,336 ten years after graduation with a 93.6% employment rate. The 64% six-year graduation rate reflects the school's supportive but academically rigorous environment.
Where is Arcadia University located and what is campus life like?
The campus sits in Glenside, Pennsylvania, a large suburban setting near Philadelphia. With housing for 1,085 students and 541 student-athletes competing in 23 NCAA Division III sports, campus life centers around tight-knit community connections.
Does Arcadia University have a strong history and tradition?
Founded in 1853, Arcadia has served students for over 170 years as a private institution. The Knights compete in the Middle Atlantic Conferences, and the school's long history has built a reputation for personalized education and student success.
