Messiah University
Acceptance rate
79.0%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$42,240
$55,338 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,618
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
74.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 78.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Messiah University, located in Grantham, Pennsylvania, is a private Christian university renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development. Established in 1909, the university emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating faith with learning. The university's motto, “Christ Preeminent,” reflects its dedication to fostering a Christ-centered community that encourages students to explore their faith and apply it to their academic pursuits and daily lives.
The campus is characterized by a vibrant community and a diverse range of programs, offering over 80 undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines. Messiah University is particularly known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts, providing students with a well-rounded education that encourages critical thinking and effective communication. The university also boasts impressive facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers that support both academic and extracurricular activities. With a strong focus on student life, Messiah offers various athletic programs, arts initiatives, and service opportunities, cultivating a rich campus culture where students can grow socially, spiritually, and academically. The university has a reputation for producing graduates who are not only well-prepared for their careers but also committed to making a positive impact in their communities.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Messiah University
Messiah University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over the past decade. One of the most striking aspects is the continuous increase in tuition fees. For undergraduate students, tuition has risen from approximately $30,470 in 2014 to $40,640 in 2024, representing an increase of 33.4% over ten years. This escalating cost may raise concerns for prospective students and families, particularly as student debt remains a pressing issue nationwide.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a consistent decline in undergraduate numbers, dropping from 2,798 in 2013 to 2,495 in 2023. This represents a decrease of about 10.9%, which may indicate a shrinking interest in the institution or increased competition from other colleges. Interestingly, the graduate student population has also fluctuated, reflecting a more complex trend where the number of graduates rose initially but has since stabilized around the mid-700s.
Graduation rates have shown a more positive trajectory. The rate of on-time graduation for undergraduates has remained relatively stable, hovering around 74.8% in recent years. This consistency suggests that while fewer students are enrolling, those who do tend to complete their programs successfully, which may speak to the quality of education provided.
Retention rates also reveal a steady commitment from students to continue their studies at Messiah University, maintaining an impressive retention rate of around 86% in the latest data. This indicates robust student satisfaction and engagement, which are critical for long-term institutional success.
Overall, while rising tuition and declining undergraduate enrollment present challenges, the university's strong graduation and retention rates highlight its commitment to student success. Balancing these factors will be crucial for Messiah University as it navigates the evolving landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Harrisburg, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 70 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Interdenominational
- President
- Jon Stuckey (Interim President)
- Phone
- 7177662511
- Address
- One University Avenue, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 77.8%, women 74.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Messiah University
The admissions data from Messiah University over the years reveals notable trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. The acceptance rates for male and female applicants show fluctuations, with male acceptance rates declining from approximately 68.7% in 2009 to about 79.6% in 2023, while female acceptance rates have seen a more stable pattern, starting at around 72.4% and slightly decreasing to 79.3%. This indicates a growing competitiveness in admissions, particularly for male applicants, which could reflect broader trends within higher education as institutions increasingly attract a larger pool of applicants.
Enrollment figures have also varied, peaking at 709 students in 2009 and generally trending downward, with a low of 551 in 2022. The number of denied applicants has also changed significantly, peaking at 1130 in 2012, which aligns with the increasing selectivity. In contrast, the number of students who deferred their admission has remained relatively stable, suggesting that while students are eager to attend, some may face circumstances that delay their enrollment.
Overall, the data signifies a shift towards a more competitive admissions landscape at Messiah University, which mirrors national trends where colleges are receiving more applications but also rejecting a higher percentage. This trend may reflect the institution's efforts to enhance its academic reputation and attract a diverse student body, as well as the growing emphasis on college readiness among high school graduates. As such, prospective students should be well-prepared and aware of the increasing selectivity in the admissions process.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
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 · 52% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Messiah University Admission Trends
The admission data from Messiah University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores and their corresponding performance. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a general trend of high participation, peaking at 97% in 2008 before experiencing a notable decline to 57% in 2022 and 2023. This drop could reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without submitting standardized test scores.
In terms of performance, the data indicates variations in the 25th and 75th percentile SAT reading and math scores over the years. For instance, while the 25th percentile scores have generally maintained a range around 500-560, the 75th percentile has fluctuated between 620-670. This suggests a diverse applicant pool, with some years reflecting a stronger cohort of students. The higher range in recent years may indicate that the university is attracting more competitive candidates, despite the declining number of test submissions.
The trend towards test-optional admissions aligns with national movements where institutions recognize the limitations of standardized testing as a sole measure of student potential. As universities like Messiah adapt their admissions strategies, they not only broaden access to a wider range of students but also emphasize holistic evaluation processes that consider various aspects of a student's application. This shift could further diversify the student body while promoting equity in the admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,458 applicants in 2025, 79.0% admitted
1,941 admitted 517 not admitted Yield 29.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other · Master's93 (3% international)
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral36 (0% international)
- Music Performance, General · Master's29 (7% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's28 (4% international)
- Education, General · Master's21 (0% international)
- Nursing Practice · Master's14 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Messiah University
The graduation data from Messiah University for the year 2023 reveals significant trends, particularly in the health professions and related fields. Notably, the Registered Nursing program produced 45 bachelor’s graduates, reflecting the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals amid a global health crisis accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This aligns with national trends showing a heightened focus on nursing and healthcare education, as institutions strive to address workforce shortages in these critical areas.
Moreover, the Physical Therapy program stands out with the highest number of doctorate graduates, totaling 35. This indicates a robust interest in advanced practice roles within physical therapy, especially as the healthcare landscape evolves towards more specialized care. The absence of international students graduating from these programs may suggest potential barriers or a need for improved recruitment strategies to attract a diverse student body.
Interestingly, many other programs, including those in the arts and humanities, recorded minimal or no graduates, which may reflect shifting priorities in student enrollment or job market demands. The lack of graduates in fields such as foreign languages and humanities could indicate a trend towards STEM and healthcare fields, which are perceived as more viable career paths.
Overall, the data illustrates how external circumstances, including public health needs and economic factors, influence educational outcomes and student choices at Messiah University. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for educational institutions to adapt their programs to meet these changing demands and support a diverse range of academic pursuits.
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $28,640 | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Pre-Occupational Therapy Studies. | - | |||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $70,482-$78,498 | |||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $70,482-$78,498 | |||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | - | |||
| Nursing Education. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $82,180 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $82,180 | |||
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | $50,088-$59,699 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,659-$75,370 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $57,659-$75,370 | |||
| Accounting. | $63,976 | |||
| Finance, General. | $63,871 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Actuarial Science. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $51,238 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Musical Theatre. | - | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $32,113 | |||
| Music, General. | $66,907 | |||
| Music Performance, General. | $66,907 | |||
| Music, Other. | $66,907 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | $71,006 | |||
| Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | - | |||
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $39,732 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $47,091 | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | |||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Development. | $38,069 | |||
| Family and Community Services. | $38,069 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $64,152 | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Development Economics and International Development. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution. | - | |||
| Biopsychology. | - | |||
| Sustainability Studies. | - | |||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - | |||
| Public/Applied History. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communications Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | |||
| Religious Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
3,373 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 88.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,617
- First-year undergraduates 561
- Graduate students 755
- Transfers and others 440
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,618)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
2023 Student Demographics at Messiah University
In 2023, Messiah University presents an intriguing landscape of student demographics, revealing significant insights into the composition of its student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 587, with a gender distribution of 42.2% male and 57.8% female, indicating a slightly higher representation of female students in this category. This trend continues among undergraduate seniors, where 1,659 students are enrolled, with males comprising 39.3% and females 60.7%.
Interestingly, the undergraduate transfer students, numbering 81, show an even more pronounced gender disparity, with only 28.4% males compared to 71.6% females. This suggests that female students may be more inclined to transfer, potentially reflecting broader patterns in higher education where female students often show higher retention rates.
Graduate students total 736, with a gender breakdown of 29.9% males and 70.1% females, further emphasizing the trend of female predominance within the university. This demographic distribution raises questions about the factors influencing these trends, such as societal expectations, academic interests, and support systems that may cater more effectively to female students.
Moreover, the racial and ethnic diversity within the student body remains an important aspect to consider, particularly in a time where institutions are increasingly striving for inclusivity. However, specific data on the demographic breakdown among different racial and ethnic groups is yet to be fully disclosed for senior and graduate students.
Overall, the 2023 data from Messiah University highlights a growing female representation across various student categories, which mirrors national trends in higher education and prompts further exploration into the factors contributing to these dynamics.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Messiah University
The age distribution of students at Messiah University in 2023 presents a fascinating insight into the demographics of the student body. A significant proportion of undergraduate students falls within the 18-21 age range, with 396 males and 649 females aged 18-19, followed closely by 423 males and 646 females aged 20-21. This indicates a robust influx of traditional college-age students, which is typical for many universities across the United States.
As we observe the trend, the numbers begin to decline in the 22-24 age group, where there are 148 total males and females, reflecting a common pattern of students either graduating or transitioning into the workforce. Interestingly, the data shows a notable presence of graduate students, particularly among those aged 25-29, where there are 76 male and 146 female graduate students. This could be attributed to the increasing number of individuals pursuing advanced degrees later in life, a trend seen nationally as the job market increasingly favors higher education qualifications.
Moreover, the representation of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, remains minimal. For instance, only 27 total students are in the 30-34 age category, and the numbers further diminish in the older brackets. This raises considerations about the accessibility and appeal of higher education for non-traditional students, an area that universities might want to explore further to enhance inclusivity.
Overall, Messiah University reflects a predominantly young student population, with a healthy balance of undergraduate and graduate demographics, aligning with broader educational trends in the United States.
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.
55 in 2025 · 4.0% in 2016
20 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Messiah University
The data on international student enrollment at Messiah University reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown a gradual increase, peaking at 4.75% in 2018 before slightly declining in subsequent years. Despite this fluctuation, the overall representation of international students in the undergraduate population remains relatively low, ranging from 2.08% to 4.75%.
In contrast, the graduate school has experienced a much more significant rise in the number of international students. The percentage of international students in graduate programs started at a mere 0.22% in 2015 and increased to 2.17% by 2023. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education, where many institutions across the United States are attracting a larger percentage of international graduate students compared to undergraduates.
Several factors could contribute to these enrollment trends. The overall decline in total undergraduate enrollment at Messiah University might suggest a more competitive admission landscape, while the growth in graduate programs might indicate a stronger appeal for advanced studies among international students. Furthermore, global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have impacted student mobility, leading to fluctuations in enrollment figures.
In conclusion, while Messiah University has seen a gradual increase in international student representation, especially at the graduate level, the overall numbers remain modest. This highlights the ongoing challenges and opportunities in attracting a diverse student population in a changing global context.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$55,338
- Undergraduate tuition
- $42,240
- Room and board
- $13,098
- Graduate tuition
- $14,040
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 36%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$108M
Expenses$105M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Middle Atlantic States Athletic Corporation
Middle Atlantic States Athletic Corporation: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 119 | 133 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 24 |
| Soccer | 27 | 30 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Volleyball | 17 | 19 |
| Wrestling | 36 | - |
| Swimming | 12 | 20 |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 14 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 111 | 133 |
| Lacrosse | 38 | 22 |
| Soccer | 28 | 24 |
| Wrestling | 42 | - |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Volleyball | 18 | 17 |
| Basketball | 19 | 14 |
| Swimming | 9 | 22 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 112 | 124 |
| Lacrosse | 31 | 20 |
| Soccer | 27 | 24 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Wrestling | 34 | - |
| Swimming | 13 | 20 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 14 |
| Basketball | 16 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 28 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 11 | 11 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 11.5 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 25.7 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 36.2 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Bucknell UniversityLewisburg · 55.4 mi
Liberal Arts #29
-
Juniata CollegeHuntingdon · 59.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 60.4 mi
U.S. News #9
-
The Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity Park · 63.8 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of Maryland-Baltimore CountyBaltimore · 63.9 mi
U.S. News #137
-
University of DelawareNewark · 73.3 mi
U.S. News #85
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Messiah University:
-
Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious university is renowned for its research programs and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
-
Bucknell University - This liberal arts college is ranked 30th and is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and vibrant campus life.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - With a rank of 35, this college is famous for its rigorous academics and close-knit community, providing a strong liberal arts education.
-
Dickinson College - Ranked 46th, Dickinson is known for its global education approach and commitment to sustainability.
-
University of Maryland-College Park - This large public research university is ranked 46th and offers a comprehensive range of programs and resources for students.
-
Gettysburg College - With a ranking of 63, Gettysburg is recognized for its rich history and strong liberal arts curriculum.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the diverse academic landscape surrounding Messiah University.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Messiah University
The crime statistics from Messiah University over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses. The data shows that in 2015, the university experienced a peak with a crime rate of 14.35 per 1000 students, which sharply contrasts with the much lower rates in recent years. For instance, in 2023, the crime rate dropped to just 4.70 per 1000 students, indicating a notable improvement in campus safety.
Analyzing the subcategories of crime, incidents of gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses seem to have been a concern in certain years, particularly in 2015 and 2019, when the overall crime rates were at their highest. However, the recent years show a decline in such incidents, suggesting that the university's initiatives to enhance campus security and encourage a safer environment may be yielding positive results.
Moreover, the steep drop in the crime rate in 2022 and 2023 could be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness and preventive measures against crime, as well as a potential shift in student behavior and community involvement.
Continued monitoring of these trends is essential, as it not only reflects on the university's environment but also affects prospective students' decisions. The overall trend indicates a move towards a safer campus, which is crucial for fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
For further understanding of how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Messiah University include Brian Duffield (Film director and screenwriter), Chris Heisey (Former MLB outfielder) and Ray Crist (Chemist who took part in the Manhattan Project).
-
Brian Duffield 1985–
Film director and screenwriter
-
Chris Heisey 1984–
Former MLB outfielder
-
Ray Crist 1900–2005
Chemist who took part in the Manhattan Project
-
Peter Enns 1961–
Biblical scholar and theologian
-
Brian Sell 1978–
Marathon runner at the 2008 Olympics
-
Ernest L. Boyer 1928–1995
Educator and Chancellor of State University of New York
-
David J. Steinberg 1965–2010
Actor known for the film Willow
-
Steve Thurston 1974–
Journalist, photographer and co-founder of Integridad
-
Lynn H. Cohick 1962–
New Testament scholar and professor at Houston Christian University
More alumni (3, by field)
Arts and media
-
Kenny Marks 1950–2018
Christian singer
Sports
-
Kai Kasiguran 1985–
Professional soccer player
-
Nick Thompson 1988–
American soccer player and coach
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.