Susquehanna University
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#85
Up 11 from 2026
Acceptance rate
81.4%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$59,850
$75,950 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
2,246
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
70.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 75.7%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Susquehanna University, located in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, is a private liberal arts university known for its commitment to academic excellence and vibrant campus culture. The university was founded in 1858 and has a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, offering over 100 majors and minors across various disciplines, including business, humanities, and sciences. The school prides itself on fostering a close-knit community where students can engage deeply with their studies and with one another. The student-to-faculty ratio is low, which allows for personalized attention and mentorship from professors, many of whom are leaders in their fields.
The university's campus is not only picturesque but also equipped with modern facilities that support a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. Highlights include the Blough-Weis Library, which provides extensive resources for research, and the Charles B. Degenstein Campus Center, which serves as a hub for student life. Additionally, Susquehanna University is known for its strong emphasis on service and leadership, guided by its motto, "The Best in the World," which inspires students to strive for excellence in all endeavors. The university also actively promotes a vibrant athletic culture, with various sports teams competing at the NCAA Division III level, fostering teamwork and school spirit among students. Overall, Susquehanna University offers a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for successful careers and meaningful lives.
Analysis of Key Trends at Susquehanna University
Over the years, Susquehanna University has demonstrated significant trends in tuition costs, student retention, and graduation rates. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has increased steadily, reaching $55,160 in 2023, up from $38,780 in 2014. This represents a staggering 42.5% increase over the decade, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where tuition fees continue to rise, often outpacing inflation. This rise in tuition may lead to increased financial burdens on students and families, potentially affecting enrollment numbers in the future.
In terms of student retention, there has been a positive trajectory, with retention rates hovering around 85% in recent years. This indicates that students are finding value in their educational experience at Susquehanna, as higher retention rates are often linked to student satisfaction and institutional support. However, there was a noticeable dip in retention in 2019, which could warrant further investigation to understand the factors that influenced this decline.
Graduation rates also tell an important story. The on-time graduation rate has seen fluctuations, down to 65.1% in 2020, but rebounding to 72.3% in 2023. This trend suggests that while there may be challenges faced by students, the university's efforts in supporting students through their academic journey may be yielding positive outcomes, as seen in the improved graduation rates.
Overall, while the rising cost of tuition presents challenges, the university's focus on student retention and improving graduation rates is commendable and reflects a commitment to student success. As higher education institutions navigate these complex dynamics, it will be crucial for Susquehanna University to continue addressing affordability while enhancing student support services.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Harrisburg, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- Susquahanna, Susquehana, Sesquehanna
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Evangelical Lutheran Church
- President
- Jonathan D. Green (President)
- Phone
- 5703740101
- City
- Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 514 University Ave, Selinsgrove, PA 17870-1025
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 67.1%, women 75.5%.
Best #85, lowest #107, latest #85 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Susquehanna University
The admission data for Susquehanna University presents interesting trends over the years, highlighting both the increasing selectivity and the evolving demographics of the student body. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants have varied significantly, ranging from approximately 69.8% to 75.1%, while female acceptance rates have shown a broader range, peaking at about 86.4% in 2019. This disparity in acceptance rates may reflect the university's efforts to balance its gender ratio, as well as fluctuations in application numbers.
The number of enrolled students has also exhibited fluctuations, peaking at 668 in 2016 before declining to 555 in 2022. This decline in enrollment could be indicative of a broader trend affecting many colleges and universities in recent years, such as demographic shifts, changing perceptions of higher education value, and increased competition among institutions. Additionally, the number of denied applications has generally risen, suggesting that the university may be becoming more selective as it seeks to enhance its academic profile.
Interestingly, the data for 2024 indicates a rank of 107, suggesting that Susquehanna University is striving to enhance its reputation in a competitive educational landscape. As higher education continues to evolve, universities must adapt their admission strategies to attract a diverse and qualified student body while maintaining academic integrity and institutional goals. This ongoing balancing act will be crucial for the university's future success and its ability to navigate the complexities of higher education today.
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—
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 · 41% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT Scores and Submission Rates at Susquehanna University
The data from Susquehanna University over the years reveals significant trends in both SAT score ranges and the percentage of applicants submitting scores. There is a noticeable fluctuation in the number of students submitting SAT scores, with a peak in 2009 at 507 submissions and a significant drop to 298 in 2023, indicating a decline of approximately 41% over the 14-year span. This decline may reflect a broader trend in higher education where more institutions are adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
Regarding SAT scores, the 25th percentile reading scores have shown an overall upward trend from 500 in 2007 to 550 in 2023, while the 75th percentile scores have also increased from 600 to 650. This suggests that the academic preparedness of students who do choose to submit their SAT scores is improving over time. Despite the drop in submissions, the scores of those who do submit are rising, indicating that the university is attracting a more academically qualified applicant pool.
Additionally, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, peaking at 86% in 2007 and dropping to 52% in 2023. This drastic decrease in submission rates may pose challenges for the university in evaluating the applicant pool uniformly, especially as more students opt for test-optional routes. Overall, while SAT scores show improvement among those who submit, the declining submission rates could suggest a shift in how students view standardized testing in the college admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
5,513 applicants in 2025, 81.4% admitted
4,489 admitted 1,024 not admitted Yield 13.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Susquehanna University
The graduation data from Susquehanna University in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends, particularly in the fields of psychology and creative writing. Psychology emerged as the leading discipline with 54 graduates, highlighting its popularity and the growing interest in mental health and human behavior. This aligns with contemporary societal focus on mental health awareness, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared to meet increasing demands in this sector.
In contrast, creative writing showed a respectable number of 33 graduates, which, while lower than psychology, signifies a steady interest in the arts and humanities. This is particularly relevant in an age where storytelling and content creation are pivotal in digital media, indicating that these graduates may find diverse career opportunities in various industries, including publishing and marketing.
Another significant observation is the presence of international students, particularly in finance and marketing, with each field having one international bachelor’s degree graduate. This indicates that while these programs are popular among local students, there is also a growing allure for international students, reflecting the global nature of business education.
Interestingly, many other programs did not report any graduates, which may highlight under-enrollment or a shift in student interest towards more lucrative or in-demand fields. This trend could affect the university's course offerings in the future, as institutions increasingly prioritize programs that yield higher graduate numbers to sustain operations and funding.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of adaptability in educational offerings, responding to both student interests and market demands.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,040 | ||
| Accounting. | $69,863 | ||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $67,368 | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Management Science. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $55,416 | ||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $37,037 | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $37,037 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Ecology. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | $36,387 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Journalism. | - | ||
| Radio and Television. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | $44,106 | ||
| Sports Communication. | $44,106 | ||
| Publishing. | $33,292 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $46,290 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | $30,175 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $37,592 | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,314 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $40,653 | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Computational and Applied Mathematics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Language and Literature. | - | ||
| French Language and Literature. | $34,269 | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $34,269 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
Students
2,255 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 86.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,520
- First-year undergraduates 610
- Graduate students 9
- Transfers and others 116
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,246)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Susquehanna University in 2023
In 2023, Susquehanna University displayed a diverse student body with notable trends in gender distribution and racial composition among various classifications. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there were 578 students, with 42% identifying as male and 58% as female. This gender ratio indicates a slight preference for female students in the incoming class, a trend that has been observed in many universities across the United States in recent years.
The undergraduate junior class was significantly larger, comprising 1,533 students, with a similar gender distribution of 42.5% male and 57.5% female. Interestingly, the transfer student population was quite small at just 28 students, with a higher male percentage of 64.3%. This might suggest either a trend of male students transferring more often or a smaller pool of male transfer applicants.
Graduate students represented a very small fraction of the total population, with only 7 enrolled, all of whom were female. This stark contrast highlights an area where further recruitment efforts could be beneficial to balance gender representation at the graduate level.
Furthermore, the data on racial demographics, particularly among freshmen and juniors, reveals that white students constitute the majority within these groups. Understanding these demographics is essential not only for fostering an inclusive environment but also for implementing targeted outreach initiatives aimed at enhancing diversity across the university. As higher education increasingly prioritizes diversity and inclusion, these statistics underscore the need for ongoing efforts to attract a broader array of students from various backgrounds.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Susquehanna University
The age distribution of students at Susquehanna University in 2023 reflects a predominantly young demographic, with the majority of undergraduate students falling within the 18-21 age range. Specifically, the largest group is composed of students aged 18-19, totaling 1,016, which constitutes approximately 69% of the undergraduate population. The 20-21 age group closely follows, making up around 28% of undergraduates. This trend aligns with the national average in many universities where younger students are more likely to enroll immediately after completing high school.
Interestingly, the number of older students decreases significantly as age increases. For instance, only a handful of students aged 25-29 and above are enrolled, with just 6 students aged 25-29 and 2 students aged 30-34. This could indicate that the institution primarily attracts traditional college-aged students, which may limit the diversity of perspectives and experiences that older students typically bring to the campus environment.
Moreover, the data shows a notable absence of graduate male students, which raises questions about the gender balance in graduate programs. The overall female student population also outnumbers males significantly, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where females are increasingly outpacing males in enrollment rates.
In conclusion, while Susquehanna University has a vibrant young student body, the low representation of older students and male graduates could suggest areas for potential growth and diversity in future enrollment strategies.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
29 in 2025 · 2.3% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2019
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Susquehanna University
The data on international student enrollment at Susquehanna University over the years reveals a fluctuating yet generally increasing trend among undergraduate students. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduates varied, peaking at 51 students in 2016, which accounted for 2.32% of the total undergraduate population. This represents a significant increase in the international student presence compared to earlier years when the proportion was below 1%.
However, the data also indicates a decline in the number of international undergraduate students in recent years, with only 19 students in 2023, making up just 0.85% of the undergraduate body. This drop raises concerns about potential barriers faced by international students, which could be influenced by global factors such as changing immigration policies, the impact of COVID-19, and shifting perceptions of studying abroad.
On the graduate side, the data is limited, but it shows an increasing trend in the number of international graduate students until 2019, with a reported number of 3 in that year. The absence of data for subsequent years hinders a complete analysis of this trend.
Overall, while Susquehanna University has seen moments of growth in international student enrollment, the recent decline suggests a need for strategic initiatives to attract and support international students. This is crucial, as diversity on campus enriches the educational experience for all students and enhances the institution's global reputation.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$75,950
- Undergraduate tuition
- $59,850
- Room and board
- $16,100
- Graduate tuition
- $7,620
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$115M
Expenses$87.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Centennial Conference · Landmark Conference
Centennial Conference: football
Landmark Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 128 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 54 |
| Lacrosse | 50 | 26 |
| Soccer | 32 | 34 |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 34 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 16 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 14 | 6 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 129 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 52 | 47 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 52 | 47 |
| Lacrosse | 42 | 25 |
| Soccer | 24 | 33 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Cross Country | 18 | 18 |
| Basketball | 19 | 14 |
| Field Hockey | - | 33 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 10 | 15 |
| Tennis | 15 | 10 |
| Golf | 16 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 99 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 36 | 36 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 36 | 36 |
| Soccer | 32 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 39 | 25 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Swimming | 11 | 23 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Tennis | 18 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 12 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Bucknell UniversityLewisburg · 10.8 mi
Liberal Arts #29
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 44.4 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
The Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity Park · 51.7 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 59.5 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Juniata CollegeHuntingdon · 63.3 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 69.1 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Muhlenberg CollegeAllentown · 72.9 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Lehigh UniversityBethlehem · 79.4 mi
U.S. News #44
-
DeSales UniversityCenter Valley · 80.6 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Susquehanna University:
-
Bucknell University - Ranked 30th in the 2024 US News, Bucknell is a prominent liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a vibrant campus community.
-
Dickinson College - With a rank of 46, Dickinson College offers a rigorous liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking and global awareness among its students.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - Ranked 35th, this liberal arts college is known for its collaborative learning environment and strong focus on research opportunities for undergraduates.
-
Lehigh University - A prestigious research university ranked 47th, Lehigh offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its engineering and business disciplines.
-
Gettysburg College - Ranked 63rd, Gettysburg College provides a rich educational experience with a focus on history and civic engagement, situated in a historic town.
These schools provide a variety of options for students seeking quality education in the region surrounding Susquehanna University.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Susquehanna University
The crime statistics at Susquehanna University from 2013 to 2023 reveal a notable trend in student-related offenses. Initially, there was a steady increase in the crime rate, peaking in 2017 with a rate of 68.34 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike may reflect a growing awareness and reporting of crimes on campus, but it also raises concerns about student safety and the effectiveness of campus security measures.
Following 2017, the data indicates a gradual decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 21.96 in 2023. This downward trend could be attributed to several factors, including enhanced safety protocols, increased community engagement, or a shift in student behavior. Moreover, the significant drop in offenses related to alcohol and drug arrests is particularly noteworthy, suggesting a potential change in campus culture or effective preventative measures.
It is essential to consider the context behind these numbers. Universities across the United States have been increasingly focused on creating safer environments through educational programs and stricter enforcement of policies. Additionally, societal trends, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, may have also influenced these crime statistics, as many students experienced changes in living arrangements and social interactions.
Ultimately, while the decrease in crime rates at Susquehanna University is encouraging, continuous efforts are required to maintain and further improve campus safety. Engaging students in dialogue about safety and crime prevention will be crucial in fostering a secure campus environment. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Susquehanna University include Camilla Luddington (Actress known for Grey's Anatomy), Harold Norman Moldenke (American botanist specializing in Verbenaceae) and Bob Mosher (Television and radio scriptwriter).
-
Camilla Luddington 1983–
Actress known for Grey's Anatomy
-
Harold Norman Moldenke 1909–1996
American botanist specializing in Verbenaceae
-
Bob Mosher 1915–1972
Television and radio scriptwriter
-
Jackie McKeever 1930–2007
Television and stage actress and singer
-
Adam Harris 1975–
Former Pennsylvania state representative
-
Jay Feaster 1962–
Former Calgary Flames general manager
-
Merle Phillips 1928–2013
Pennsylvania House member from 1980 to 2010
-
David T. Little 1978–
Composer of operas including JFK
-
Benjamin K. Focht 1863–1937
Republican U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Uzal Girard Ent 1900–1948
Army Air Forces officer, WWII Second Air Force commander
Business
-
Koh Dong-jin 1961–
Former Samsung Electronics executive and National Assembly member
Science and academia
-
Lillian Estelle Fisher 1891–1988
Historian of colonial Latin America and author
-
Claude A. Buss 1903–1998
Historian, professor and diplomat in the Philippines
Arts and media
-
Michael J. Bobbitt
Playwright, director and CEO of Opera America
-
James Bates 1952–2014
Organist and conductor of early and Baroque music
Sports
-
Bill Muir 1942–
Football coach, former Buccaneers offensive coordinator
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.