About Excelsior University
The financial picture looks remarkably student-friendly for a private institution. Students graduate with a median debt of just $13,769, well below national averages for private colleges. Monthly loan payments average only $146, making repayment manageable on typical graduate salaries. Ten years after graduation, alumni earn a median of $78,493, creating a strong return on their educational investment. Only 33.63% of students need federal loans, suggesting many pay as they go or receive employer tuition assistance.
The student body reflects Excelsior's mission as an access-focused institution. Nearly 25% receive Pell Grants, indicating significant numbers of first-generation and lower-income students. The demographic breakdown shows 57.66% white students, 18.90% Black students, and 13.40% Hispanic students. Most students come from outside New York, with only 29.84% from in-state, reflecting the university's national online reach.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 20:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $78,493
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $97,959 |
| Nuclear Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $94,408 |
| Bioethics/Medical Ethics. | Master | $86,129 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $83,768 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $74,747 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Master | $66,889 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $63,005 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $55,512 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $53,358 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $49,660 |
Campus Life
Only 29.84% of students come from New York state, reflecting the borderless nature of online education. Students log into virtual classrooms from across the country, participating in discussions and group projects through digital platforms. Weekend study sessions happen whenever fits busy schedules. The 20:1 student-faculty ratio means professors can provide meaningful feedback on assignments and participate in online office hours. With 89.8% of graduates finding employment, the flexible format attracts career-changers and professionals seeking advancement. Monthly loan payments average just $146, making this an affordable path to higher education. Students connect through online forums and virtual study groups rather than campus quads or dining halls.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Calendar System
- Other
Campus Safety (2023)
6 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fondling | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 15°–32°F
- July Avg
- 62°–83°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 40.7"
- Annual Snowfall
- 59.2"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 49.4%
- Women
- 50.6%
- White
- 57.7%
- Black
- 18.9%
- Hispanic
- 13.4%
- Asian
- 3.0%
- In-State Students
- 29.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 24.9%
Location
- Address
- Albany, New York 12203-5159
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $78,493
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $78,507
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $60,200
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 55.6%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $146/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $13,769
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the student experience like at Excelsior University?
Excelsior serves 12,701 students through its adult-focused online and distance learning programs. The university operates on a flexible calendar system that accommodates working professionals. With a student-faculty ratio of 20:1, students can expect meaningful interaction despite the virtual format.
How much does Excelsior University cost after financial aid?
Only 24.91% of students receive financial aid, reflecting the university's focus on adult learners who often pay out of pocket. Students who do borrow graduate with a median debt of just $13,769. Monthly loan payments average $146, making this one of the more affordable private university options.
What are the academic programs like at Excelsior University?
The university specializes in career-focused programs designed for working adults and non-traditional students. With 29.84% of students coming from in-state, Excelsior draws a national audience seeking flexible degree completion options. The school has built its reputation on accommodating students who need to balance education with work and family commitments.
What career outcomes can graduates expect from Excelsior University?
Graduates achieve an 89.8% employment rate and earn a median salary of $78,493 ten years after graduation. The loan repayment rate sits at 55.58%, which reflects the practical, career-oriented nature of the programs. Alumni typically see steady earnings growth, with first-year graduates earning $68,971.
Where is Excelsior University located and what is campus life like?
The university is based in Albany, NY, but operates primarily as an online institution serving students nationwide. As a distance learning-focused school, traditional campus life is minimal. Students connect virtually and benefit from the flexibility to study from anywhere while maintaining their current location and commitments.
Does Excelsior University serve a diverse student population?
The student body is 50.56% women and 49.44% men, with significant racial diversity including 18.90% Black students and 13.40% Hispanic students. This diversity reflects the university's mission to serve underrepresented adult learners who might not otherwise have access to higher education. The school has historically focused on removing barriers for non-traditional students seeking degree completion.
