Southern New Hampshire University vs Saint Anselm College
These Manchester-based institutions offer contrasting educational experiences. SNHU accepts 96% of applicants compared to Saint Anselm's 82% rate, making SNHU significantly more accessible for admission.
Cost and Value
SNHU charges $16,450 in tuition while Saint Anselm costs $46,810, yet both schools have similar average net prices ($33,742 vs $34,744) due to Saint Anselm's substantial financial aid. SNHU graduates carry less debt ($21,082 vs $27,000), but Saint Anselm alumni earn considerably more ten years post-graduation ($73,371 vs $50,318).
Academic Environment
Saint Anselm provides a more intimate learning environment with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and 2,032 students, compared to SNHU's 24:1 ratio and massive 156,755 enrollment. This size difference translates to dramatically different retention and graduation rates: Saint Anselm retains 90% of students with 83% graduating within six years, while SNHU retains only 60% with a 45% graduation rate.
Campus Experience
Saint Anselm offers a traditional small college atmosphere with close faculty relationships and a tight-knit community. SNHU, known for its extensive online programs, serves a diverse student population including many working adults and non-traditional learners.
Outcomes
Saint Anselm's graduates see stronger career outcomes with nearly $23,000 higher median earnings, though they invest more time and money upfront.
Students seeking an affordable, flexible education with diverse program options fit SNHU better, while those wanting a traditional liberal arts experience with strong alumni networks and career outcomes should choose Saint Anselm.
These Manchester-based institutions offer contrasting educational experiences. SNHU accepts 96% of applicants compared to Saint Anselm's 82% rate, making SNHU significantly more accessible for admission.
Cost and Value
SNHU charges $16,450 in tuition while Saint Anselm costs $46,810, yet both schools have similar average net prices ($33,742 vs $34,744) due to Saint Anselm's substantial financial aid. SNHU graduates carry less debt ($21,082 vs $27,000), but Saint Anselm alumni earn considerably more ten years post-graduation ($73,371 vs $50,318).
Academic Environment
Saint Anselm provides a more intimate learning environment with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and 2,032 students, compared to SNHU's 24:1 ratio and massive 156,755 enrollment. This size difference translates to dramatically different retention and graduation rates: Saint Anselm retains 90% of students with 83% graduating within six years, while SNHU retains only 60% with a 45% graduation rate.
Campus Experience
Saint Anselm offers a traditional small college atmosphere with close faculty relationships and a tight-knit community. SNHU, known for its extensive online programs, serves a diverse student population including many working adults and non-traditional learners.
Outcomes
Saint Anselm's graduates see stronger career outcomes with nearly $23,000 higher median earnings, though they invest more time and money upfront.
Students seeking an affordable, flexible education with diverse program options fit SNHU better, while those wanting a traditional liberal arts experience with strong alumni networks and career outcomes should choose Saint Anselm.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Southern New Hampshire University | Saint Anselm College | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 96.4% | 82.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,205 | |
| Enrollment | 156,755 | 2,032 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,450 | $46,810 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $16,450 | $46,810 |
| Net Price | $33,742 | $34,744 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.9% | 83.2% |
| Retention Rate | 59.9% | 89.6% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $50,318 | $73,371 |
| Median Debt | $21,082 | $27,000 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Southern New Hampshire University | Saint Anselm College | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $73,898 | Computer Science. | $75,518 |
| Economics. | $60,320 | Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $68,858 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $56,867 | Finance and Financial Management Services. | $53,775 |
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $50,856 | Business/Commerce, General. | $49,019 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | $50,151 | Criminology. | $45,696 |