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U.S. News #288 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Arcadia University

Glenside, Pennsylvania · www.arcadia.edu

中文

U.S. News National 2027

#288

Acceptance rate

80.2%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$49,610

$66,790 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

2,030

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

60.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 63.5%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Arcadia University, located in Glenside, Pennsylvania, is a private university known for its strong emphasis on global education and community engagement. Established in 1853, the university has a rich history and a commitment to providing a transformative educational experience. One of the distinctive features of Arcadia is its focus on study abroad programs, with a variety of international opportunities that allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures and perspectives. This global approach is encapsulated in the university's motto, "A Global Perspective," which reflects its dedication to preparing students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

The campus itself boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas that enhance the student experience. The university is also known for its dedicated faculty, who are not only experts in their fields but also committed to mentoring students and fostering a supportive learning environment. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Arcadia offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including health sciences, business, education, and the arts. The vibrant campus culture is enriched by various student organizations, athletics, and events that promote a sense of community and belonging. Graduates from Arcadia University are well-prepared for the job market, often finding success in diverse fields, thanks to the university's focus on practical experience and career readiness.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Arcadia University

Arcadia University presents notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. The tuition for undergraduate students has steadily increased from $36,810 in 2014 to $48,290 in 2024, reflecting a significant rise of approximately 31% over this period. This increase can place a financial strain on students and families, particularly in a landscape where student loan debt is a growing concern nationwide.

In terms of enrollment, the number of undergraduate students has decreased significantly, dropping from 2,453 in 2014 to 1,870 in 2023. This decline raises questions about the university's attractiveness and competitiveness in the higher education market, especially as many institutions are struggling to maintain enrollment levels amidst demographic shifts and changing student preferences.

Graduation rates have exhibited some fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate peaking at 64% in 2021, before slightly declining to 60% in 2023. This suggests that while Arcadia University has made strides in improving graduation outcomes, there may still be areas that require attention to ensure students complete their degrees within a timely manner.

Retention rates have shown a positive trend, increasing from about 79% in 2013 to approximately 80% in 2023. This stability in retention indicates that once students enroll, they are generally satisfied and tend to continue their education at Arcadia, which is a positive sign for the institution.

Overall, while Arcadia University has made progress in certain metrics, the rising tuition costs coupled with declining enrollment could pose challenges for its future stability and reputation. The university must consider strategies to improve its appeal to prospective students and ensure that it remains financially accessible.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Philadelphia, about 6 mi
Nearest international airport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 15 mi
Glenside, Pennsylvania
Also known as
Beaver College
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Ajay Nair (President)
Phone
2155722900
City
Glenside, Pennsylvania
Address
450 S Easton Rd, Glenside, PA 19038-3295

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
73.6%
Women
83.7%

In 2020: men 62.3%, women 67.2%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#288Ranked #288 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Arcadia University

The admissions data from Arcadia University over the years reveals interesting trends in acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and gender dynamics. The male acceptance rate has fluctuated significantly, peaking at 76.62% in 2022, while the female acceptance rate saw its highest at 85.20% the same year. This disparity suggests that the university may have been more lenient in admitting female applicants, which could reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions aim for gender balance.
Enrollment figures tell a mixed story. In 2009, the university enrolled 606 students, but this number has varied, reaching a high of 681 in 2013 before lowering again to 390 in 2022. Such fluctuations could be attributed to various factors including changing demographics, shifts in university marketing strategies, or broader economic conditions affecting prospective students' decisions.
The number of applicants denied admission has consistently been high, peaking at 3,565 in 2012. This indicates that while the university has seen a significant volume of applications, competition remains fierce, reflecting a common trend in many universities as they navigate increasing applicant pools.
Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions also indicates a strategic approach to managing enrollments, with 6,063 students deferred in 2021. This suggests that the university is not only looking to fill seats but is also considering the long-term fit and readiness of applicants.
Overall, the data showcases the evolving landscape of admissions at Arcadia University, highlighting the complexities of enrollment strategies amidst a competitive educational environment. As universities adapt to these changing dynamics, ongoing monitoring of such data will be crucial for future planning and decision-making.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Education School#174▲2
Health Specialty2 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1065–1265Peer median 1158
SAT Reading
550–650
600700800
SAT Math
515–615
600700800

Data insights

Analysis of Arcadia University's Admission Test Scores Over the Years

The data from Arcadia University reveals significant trends in standardized test score submissions and their corresponding performance metrics over the years. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a downward trend, dropping from 97% in 2007 to just 22% in 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional admissions policies.

Looking at the SAT scores, the 25th percentile reading score has improved slightly over the years, peaking at 560 in 2022 and 558 in 2023, while the 75th percentile reading score reached an impressive 680 in 2023. This indicates that among the students who are submitting their scores, those who are admitted tend to have stronger academic backgrounds. However, the declining number of submissions could suggest a diminishing emphasis on standardized tests among prospective students.

In terms of ACT scores, similar trends can be observed with fluctuating submission rates and score ranges. The reduction in submission rates coupled with increasing score ranges could mean that while fewer students are choosing to submit scores, those who do are performing better academically.

Overall, the data showcases a transformation in admission strategies and student profiles at Arcadia University, reflecting wider patterns in the educational landscape where standardized testing is becoming less central to the admissions process. This shift prompts a discussion on how universities will assess student potential in the future, especially in a test-optional environment.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

10,163 applicants in 2025, 80.2% admitted

8,153 admitted 2,010 not admitted Yield 7.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's4136 international (1.5%)
Master's2432 international (0.8%)
Doctoral2852 international (0.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
51
Psychology, General
43
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels
28
Computer and Information Sciences, General
22
Criminology
22
Business Administration and Management, General
19
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
17
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
16
Public Health, General
15
Political Science and Government, General
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral275 (1% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's84 (1% international)
  • Applied Behavior Analysis · Master's33 (0% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's28 (0% international)
  • Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's15 (0% international)
  • Creative Writing · Master's13 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Arcadia University

The graduation data from Arcadia University for 2023 reveals intriguing trends across different fields of study. Notably, the Physical Therapy program stands out with a significant number of doctorate graduates, totaling 213, including 12 international students. This indicates a robust interest and investment in health-related careers, which aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the current job market.

In contrast, the Physician Assistant program produced 98 master's graduates, yet no students graduated with bachelor's or doctorate degrees. This could suggest that the pathway for aspiring physician assistants is primarily focused on obtaining a master's level education, which reflects similar trends across the country as healthcare roles increasingly require advanced qualifications.

The data also indicates that fields such as Biology and Psychology produced 66 and 44 bachelor's graduates respectively, but there were no master's or doctorate graduates recorded in these disciplines. This disparity may highlight a potential gap in advanced training opportunities or student interest in pursuing higher education in these fields.

Interestingly, programs related to education showed no graduates at any level, which raises questions about the attractiveness of teaching careers in light of recent educational reforms and the ongoing challenges faced by educators.

Overall, the graduation statistics not only underscore the popularity of health-related programs but also invite further exploration into the reasons behind the low output in education and the absence of advanced degrees in certain fields. As the job market evolves, it will be essential for institutions like Arcadia University to adapt their offerings to align with workforce demands and student aspirations.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Health professionshas 402 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$45,203
Physician Assistant.$116,314
Trauma Counseling.-
Public Health, General.$116,045
Art Therapy/Therapist.$79,725
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$79,725
Medical Illustration/Medical Illustrator.-
Educationhas 118 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.$55,927
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.$55,927
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$55,927
Art Teacher Education.$61,013
Reading Teacher Education.$61,013
Social Studies Teacher Education.$61,013
Psychology has 84 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$38,897
Counseling Psychology.$56,526
Applied Behavior Analysis.$56,526
Businesshas 54 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Business/Managerial Economics.-
Finance, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.$43,142
Actuarial Science.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Biologyhas 52 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$43,888
Biochemistry.-
Visual and Performing artshas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Commercial and Advertising Art.-
Illustration.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Photography.-
Art/Art Studies, General.$30,230
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.$30,230
Painting.$30,230
Printmaking.$30,230
Ceramic Arts and Ceramics.$30,230
Jewelry Arts.$30,230
Music Management.-
Social sciencehas 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Cultural Anthropology.-
Criminology.$35,833
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
English has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.$41,441-$45,278
Communication has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$38,105
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Computer and information sciencehas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.$48,769
Parks, recreation, leisure has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution.-
International/Globalization Studies.-
Data Science, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
History has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Homeland security has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Foreign languages has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Cultural has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
French Studies.-
Italian Studies.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-

Students

3,404 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 78.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,030)

White
1,083 · 53.3%
Black
349 · 17.2%
Hispanic
234 · 11.5%
International
98 · 4.8%
Unknown
94 · 4.6%
Asian
92 · 4.5%
Two or more races
69 · 3.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
4.4%
18–19
46.7%
20–21
36.8%
22–24
7.8%
25 and over
4.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.7%
22–24
32.1%
25–29
29.8%
30–34
13.0%
35 and over
24.1%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Arcadia University in 2023

In 2023, Arcadia University showcases a diverse student body across its undergraduate and graduate programs. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 489, with a notable gender distribution where 36.8% are male and 63.2% are female. This trend reflects a broader national pattern in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment, indicating a potential shift in student demographics.

The undergraduate juniors, numbering 1,202, also exhibit a significant female majority at 65.1%, with males making up 34.9%. This gender imbalance might suggest various societal factors at play, including changing perceptions of higher education and career paths among young men and women.

Interestingly, the undergraduate transfer students, although fewer in number at 59, have a male representation of 40.7%, which is relatively higher compared to the other groups. This could indicate an increasing trend of males seeking alternative educational pathways.

Graduate students at Arcadia total 1,156, with an even more pronounced female majority at 73.2%. This is significant, as it aligns with national trends showing that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, which could have implications for workforce diversity in the future.

Overall, these figures suggest that Arcadia University is fostering an inclusive environment, while the pronounced gender disparities highlight ongoing societal changes in educational engagement. As the university continues to evolve, it will be important to monitor these demographic shifts and their impact on campus culture and academic performance.

Age Composition of Students at Arcadia University in 2023

The age composition data of students at Arcadia University for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographic makeup of the student body. The majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the younger age brackets, particularly those aged 18-19 and 20-21. For instance, there are 534 female undergraduates and 274 male undergraduates in the 18-19 age category, indicating a significant female presence in the younger undergraduate population.

Interestingly, the data shows a drop in numbers as students transition into slightly older age categories, with a noticeable decrease in both undergraduate and graduate male and female students. In the age group of 22-24, the combined total of undergraduate and graduate females is still strong at 363, but the male demographic starts to show an imbalance, particularly in graduate programs, suggesting a possible trend of fewer males pursuing advanced degrees.

Moreover, the presence of students aged 30 and above indicates that Arcadia University attracts a diverse age range of learners, including those who may be returning to education for career advancement or personal development. This trend aligns with national patterns observed in higher education, where non-traditional students, often older and with varied life experiences, are increasingly enrolling in universities.

Overall, the age diversity at Arcadia University not only enriches the educational environment but also prepares all students for a multifaceted world. As institutions continue to evolve, understanding these demographics will be crucial for tailoring programs that meet the needs of a diverse student body.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates4.8%

98 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 3.1%2017: 3.8%2018: 3.0%2019: 3.3%2020: 2.7%2021: 2.0%2022: 1.1%2023: 4.9%2024: 7.7%2025: 4.8%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.4%

5 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 2.2%2017: 3.5%2018: 6.1%2019: 11.9%2020: 10.9%2021: 7.8%2022: 3.8%2023: 1.0%2024: 0.6%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Arcadia University

The data reflecting international student enrollment at Arcadia University over the years showcases notable trends, particularly concerning undergraduate and graduate populations. Initially, from 2004 to 2010, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate category remained relatively low, peaking at only 3.84% in 2017. However, a significant surge occurred in the years following 2018, with the percentage reaching 4.87% in 2023. This upward trajectory indicates a growing interest in Arcadia University among international students, potentially due to factors such as enhanced academic offerings, improved campus facilities, or aggressive recruitment strategies.

On the graduate side, the data reveals a more pronounced volatility. The percentage of international students jumped remarkably from 2.48% in 2011 to an impressive peak of 11.85% in 2019. This spike could be attributed to various global trends, including increased competition among institutions for international talent and the growing recognition of the value of diverse educational environments. However, the subsequent years saw a decline, with the graduate international student percentage falling to 0.95% in 2023.

These fluctuations reflect broader trends in higher education, where universities are increasingly vying for global talent amid changing immigration policies and global events like the pandemic, which have impacted international student mobility. The contrast between the undergraduate and graduate statistics suggests that while undergraduate programs are beginning to attract more international students, graduate programs have faced significant challenges. Overall, these trends emphasize the need for strategic planning and outreach to maintain and grow international student enrollment in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$66,790

Undergraduate tuition
$49,610
Room and board
$17,180
Graduate tuition
$33,678
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 25% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$124M

Tuition and fees
$61.0M49.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.0M7.3%
Investment return
$8.0M6.5%
Gifts and private grants
$3.0M2.4%
Government grants and contracts
$2.4M1.9%
Other
$40.7M32.8%

Expenses$125M

Instruction
$32.7M26.2%
Institutional support
$19.7M15.8%
Student services
$18.1M14.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.7M7.8%
Academic support
$6.6M5.3%
Research
$2.4M1.9%
Public service
$75K0.1%
Other
$35.6M28.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$79,802peers $68,006
Professor
$96,772peers $78,041
Associate professor
$79,189peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$71,845peers $63,827
Instructor
$56,051peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Middle Atlantic States Athletic Corporation

Middle Atlantic States Athletic Corporation: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6382
Soccer3937
Lacrosse5320
Ice Hockey3228
Baseball41-
Basketball2016
Swimming1619
Volleyball1415
Tennis1313
Field Hockey-23
Golf138
Softball-19
Other Sports--
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5670
Lacrosse4326
Soccer3433
Ice Hockey3025
Swimming2028
Baseball43-
Basketball1816
Volleyball1416
Field Hockey-26
Softball-24
Tennis912
Golf117
Other Sports--
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6162
Soccer4036
Lacrosse4827
Baseball57-
Ice Hockey3125
Swimming1630
Basketball1720
Volleyball1515
Field Hockey-29
Softball-25
Tennis1010
Golf106
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Arcadia University:

  1. University of Pennsylvania - Ranked 6th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious Ivy League institution is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Princeton University - With a remarkable rank of 1 in the 2024 US News rankings, Princeton is renowned for its academic excellence and historic significance in higher education.

  3. Swarthmore College - Ranked 4th in the 2024 US News rankings, this liberal arts college emphasizes intellectual rigor and social responsibility, providing a unique educational experience.

  4. Haverford College - This college, ranked 21st in the 2024 US News rankings, is known for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and social justice.

  5. Bryn Mawr College - Ranked 30th in the 2024 US News rankings, Bryn Mawr is recognized for its strong liberal arts curriculum and women-centered education.

  6. Drexel University - With a rank of 98 in the 2024 US News rankings, Drexel is known for its cooperative education program, blending academic learning with real-world experience.

These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and are highly regarded for their academic programs and campus communities.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
153
Drug referrals
67
Rape
14
Fondling
5
Motor vehicle theft
5
Stalking
4

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Campus Crime Trends at Arcadia University

The crime statistics over the past decade at Arcadia University reveal significant fluctuations in the average number of incidents per 1,000 students. Notably, the figures peaked in 2015, with a staggering 26.55 incidents reported, before sharply declining in subsequent years. The year 2021 experienced the lowest recorded crime rate, with only 4.18 incidents per 1,000 students. This decline suggests effective crime prevention strategies, increased awareness, or perhaps a change in student behavior.

In examining the types of crimes, arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol violations have been significant contributors to the overall rates. The data indicates that while gun-related incidents have consistently been low, the prevalence of domestic violence and sexual assault remains a concern, reflecting broader societal issues that extend beyond campus boundaries.

The downward trend observed in recent years raises questions about the factors contributing to this reduction. It may be beneficial for the university to investigate and maintain successful initiatives that promote safety and well-being on campus. Additionally, the re-emergence of crime rates in 2023 suggests the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a secure environment for students.

Overall, the crime data at Arcadia University illustrates the dynamic nature of campus safety and the importance of continuous efforts to address and mitigate crime. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Arcadia University include Anna Deavere Smith (Actress, playwright and professor), Oliver B. Shallenberger (Electrical engineer and alternating current inventor) and Joe McKeehen (Poker player, 2015 WSOP Main Event champion).

More alumni (1, by field)

Arts and media

  • Edie Clark 1948–

    Nonfiction author and Yankee magazine writer

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.