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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

Lancaster, Pennsylvania · www.sju.edu/lancaster

中文

Acceptance rate

41.2%

2025

Peer median 83.3%

Tuition per year

$32,933

$49,173 with room and board

Peer median $18,677

Undergraduates

1,348

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

40.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 60.0%

Peer median 47.8%

“Peers” are all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences (PCHS) is a prestigious institution located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It specializes in health-related education and is known for its commitment to preparing students for successful careers in the healthcare field. The college offers a variety of programs, including nursing, medical imaging, healthcare administration, and other allied health professions. One of the distinctive features of PCHS is its focus on experiential learning, which allows students to gain hands-on experience through clinical placements and internships in real healthcare settings. This practical approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the evolving healthcare landscape.

The college's motto, "We are Health," reflects its dedication to fostering a culture of wellness and excellence in healthcare education. PCHS boasts a supportive and enriching campus environment, where students can engage in various extracurricular activities, including health-related clubs and community service initiatives. The faculty at PCHS is highly qualified, with many instructors possessing extensive professional experience in their respective fields, ensuring that students receive top-notch education and mentorship. Additionally, the college has a strong track record of graduate employment, with many students securing positions in reputable healthcare organizations shortly after completing their programs. Overall, Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences stands out as an institution that not only emphasizes academic excellence but also prioritizes the development of compassionate and competent healthcare professionals.

Analysis of Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates

The data from Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a consistent upward trajectory, rising from $21,502 in 2014 to $31,866 in 2024. This increase of approximately 48% over a decade reflects the broader trend of rising college costs across the United States, making affordability a pressing concern for prospective students and families.

In terms of student enrollment, the college has experienced fluctuations. The number of undergraduate students peaked at 1,848 in 2021 but declined to 1,640 by 2023. This decline may suggest increasing competition from other institutions or a shift in the demographics of potential students. Furthermore, the retention rate for undergraduate students has also varied, with a notable decrease to 55.77% in 2022, before rebounding to approximately 72.41% in 2023. High retention rates are crucial for institutional stability and student success, indicating that the college needs to focus on enhancing student satisfaction and support services.

Interestingly, the graduation rates have shown a positive turnaround. After struggling with a 0% timely graduation rate in 2021, the college achieved a 100% graduation rate in 2023. This remarkable improvement could reflect enhanced academic support, curriculum adjustments, or increased student engagement initiatives. Such progress in graduation rates is vital, as it enhances the institution's reputation and attractiveness to future students.

Overall, the trends observed at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences highlight the need for continuous monitoring and strategic planning to address tuition increases, student retention, and graduation outcomes. As the education landscape evolves, the college must adapt to meet the needs of its students while maintaining financial sustainability.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
In Lancaster
Nearest international airport
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 50 mi
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Cheryl A. McConnell, PhD (President)
Phone
8006225443
City
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Address
850 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, PA 17601

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 83.3% · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
56.0%
Women
39.8%

In 2020: men 70.0%, women 79.6%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The admission data from Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences provides a compelling insight into the evolving dynamics of college admissions over the years. Notably, the overall admission rates for male applicants have shown a fluctuating trend, starting at 46.8% in 2009 and reaching a peak of 75% in 2019. This peak indicates a significant increase in the college's willingness to accept male students, possibly reflecting a strategic shift in recruitment efforts.
Conversely, the admission rate for female applicants has exhibited a more stable pattern, ranging from 26.5% to 79.6% across the same period. This suggests that while the college has remained competitive in attracting female students, the variation in acceptance rates may stem from differing applicant pools and institutional priorities.
The data also highlights the number of students enrolled and denied admission each year, with the highest enrollment occurring in 2015 with 231 students, while the most significant denial rate was in 2012, with 315 applications rejected. The deferment numbers indicate a flexible admission policy, allowing students additional time to prepare for enrollment, which may contribute to the college's overall appeal.
In recent years, the college appears to have adopted a more inclusive approach, as evidenced by the increasing acceptance rates, which could align with broader trends in higher education that emphasize accessibility and diversity. As institutions continue to adapt to changing societal demands, the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences seems to be positioning itself to attract a diverse and talented student body.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The data from the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences over the years presents a fascinating insight into the evolving landscape of admissions criteria and student performance. Initially, in 2007, the college had a high percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, with 90% of applicants providing these scores. This trend continued with a slight variation in subsequent years, peaking in 2008 at 98%. However, a notable decline is observed from 2014 onward, where the submission rate dropped significantly to 56%. This notable decrease could reflect broader changes in college admissions practices, possibly influenced by growing trends towards test-optional admissions policies seen across many institutions.

When examining the score ranges, the data reveals fluctuations in the SAT reading and math scores over the years. Starting with a relatively broad range in 2007, the scores seem to tighten considerably in the following years, reaching a low in 2012 with scores as low as 385 in reading and 555 in math. This pattern indicates that the pool of admitted students may have become more competitive or that the college adjusted its criteria to align with changing educational standards.

Interestingly, in 2023, the median SAT score range shows improvement, with reading scores reaching a minimum of 540 and a maximum of 620. However, the participation rate has dropped dramatically, with only 11% of applicants submitting scores. This suggests a significant shift in applicant behavior, possibly prioritizing other aspects of their application over standardized testing.

Overall, these trends highlight the dynamic nature of college admissions and the potential impact of external factors on student evaluation processes. As institutions continue to adapt to changing educational landscapes, understanding these patterns will be crucial for prospective students and educational stakeholders alike.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 4 in 10

512 applicants in 2025, 41.2% admitted

211 admitted 301 not admitted Yield 40.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate2480 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1460 international (0.0%)
Master's490 international (0.0%)
Doctoral20 international (0.0%)
Top 3 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
117
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
17
Health Services Administration
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's15 (0% international)
  • Health Services Administration · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Nursing Administration · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Nursing Education · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Critical Care Nursing · Master's3 (0% international)
  • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Doctoral2 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The graduation data from the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences reveals some intriguing trends in healthcare education. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out, with 107 bachelor's graduates and 234 associate degree holders, indicating a significant demand for nursing professionals. This aligns with the ongoing national nursing shortage, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the critical need for trained healthcare workers.

Interestingly, there are no international students graduating in most categories, particularly in bachelor's and master's programs. This lack of diversity might limit the global perspective and cultural competency in the healthcare field, which are essential in today's interconnected world. The absence of international graduates could also reflect the broader challenges faced by international students in the U.S., including visa regulations and financial barriers.

Moreover, the data shows a minimal number of graduates in advanced practice nursing, such as nursing administration and nursing education. This suggests that while there is a strong foundation in nursing, there may be a gap in leadership and educational roles within the profession. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, fostering advanced education and training opportunities will be crucial in preparing the next generation of nurse leaders.

Overall, while the data indicates a robust output of entry-level nursing professionals, it also underscores potential areas for growth, particularly in attracting international talent and promoting advanced practice education. Addressing these challenges will be vital for the sustainability and advancement of healthcare services in Pennsylvania and beyond.

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 445 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Cardiovascular Technology/Technologist.$58,231-$63,990
Nuclear Medical Technology/Technologist.$58,231-$63,990
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.$58,231-$63,990
Surgical Technology/Technologist.$58,231-$63,990
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.$58,231-$63,990
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$58,231-$63,990
Health Services Administration.-
Nursing Education.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$74,676-$79,477
Nursing Administration.$74,676-$79,477
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$74,676-$79,477
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing.$74,676-$79,477
Critical Care Nursing.$74,676-$79,477
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.$70,566

Students

1,439 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 12:88 · Freshman retention 81.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,348)

White
813 · 60.3%
Hispanic
248 · 18.4%
Black
163 · 12.1%
Asian
67 · 5.0%
Two or more races
42 · 3.1%
Unknown
12 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.4%
18–19
10.4%
20–21
14.1%
22–24
18.1%
25 and over
56.0%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
3.3%
25–29
27.5%
30–34
22.0%
35 and over
47.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The student demographics of Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences in 2023 reveal some interesting trends regarding the composition of the student body. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is relatively small compared to upperclassmen and transfer students, with 92 freshmen enrolled. Notably, the gender ratio for freshmen skews heavily towards females, with 90.2% identifying as women. This trend continues among upperclassmen, where females make up 88.9% of the 1,185 students.

Transfer students also reflect a similar gender distribution, with 88.1% female among the 252 students. However, graduate students show a slightly different pattern, with males constituting 17% of the 135 enrolled graduates, indicating a higher representation of men compared to undergraduates. This might suggest a trend of more gender diversity in graduate programs compared to undergraduate ones at the institution.

In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data indicates that white students comprise a significant portion of each student category. The exact numbers for other racial and ethnic groups are not fully detailed in the data, but it’s essential to recognize the ongoing discussions in higher education about increasing diversity and inclusion.

As colleges and universities strive to create a more diverse environment, understanding these demographics can help identify areas for growth and improvement. The college's commitment to fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all students, regardless of gender or background, remains a crucial aspect of its mission.

Age Composition of Students at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The age distribution of students at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences presents an intriguing insight into the demographics of higher education. The data reveals a significant concentration of younger students, particularly those aged 18-24, who make up a large portion of the undergraduate female population, with 170 females aged 18-19 and 201 females aged 20-21. This trend reflects broader national patterns observed in college enrollment, where younger students are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school.

Interestingly, the age bracket of 25-29 also shows a robust presence, with 48 total students, indicating that many individuals are continuing or returning to education later in life. This phenomenon aligns with the growing trend of adult learners seeking further education to enhance their career prospects, especially in the health sciences, a field that requires continual professional development.

The gender distribution is noteworthy, with significantly more female students than male students across all age categories. For instance, in the 22-24 age group, there are 42 male students compared to 261 female students. This disparity may reflect wider societal trends where women are pursuing higher education at higher rates than men.

Overall, the age and gender composition at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences underscores the evolving landscape of higher education, marked by an influx of younger students and a predominance of female enrollment. These patterns may have implications for future strategies in recruitment and support services tailored to diverse age groups and gender dynamics within the student body.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 0.0%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 0.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences has been a significant destination for international students, reflecting broader trends in higher education. As globalization intensifies, students from various countries seek advanced education in healthcare and related fields, recognizing the quality of American institutions.

International students contribute to the diversity and richness of the campus environment. This diversity fosters cross-cultural understanding and prepares all students for a global workforce. Moreover, these students often bring unique perspectives and experiences that enhance classroom discussions and learning outcomes.

While specific data is currently unavailable, it's essential to consider the impact of global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has altered international student mobility. Many institutions saw fluctuations in enrollment as travel restrictions and safety concerns arose. However, as the world adapts to new norms, there is hope for a resurgence in international student enrollment, particularly in healthcare disciplines that are in high demand.

It's also crucial for institutions to support international students through tailored services, including orientation programs, academic advising, and cultural integration activities. Such initiatives not only improve retention rates but also ensure that these students have a fulfilling experience.

Overall, Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences, like many other institutions, must continue to adapt and evolve its strategies to attract and retain international students, especially in an increasingly competitive global education landscape.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$49,173

Undergraduate tuition
$32,933
Room and board
$16,240
Graduate tuition
$17,172
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $30,010 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Tuition rose 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 62%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.5M

Tuition and fees
$30.1M87.2%
Investment return
$2.4M6.9%
Gifts and private grants
$1.2M3.5%
Sales and services of educational activities
$749K2.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$46K0.1%

Expenses$28.7M

Institutional support
$11.1M38.5%
Instruction
$10.6M36.8%
Student services
$3.0M10.6%
Academic support
$2.4M8.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.6M5.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

All faculty
$74,507peers $67,788
Professor
$88,763peers $85,183
Associate professor
$78,914peers $76,269
Assistant professor
$77,050peers $67,938
Instructor
$72,150peers $60,861

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable nearby institutions surrounding the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences:

  1. Franklin and Marshall College - Ranked 35th among liberal arts colleges, Franklin and Marshall College offers a rigorous academic environment and fosters a close-knit community.

  2. Villanova University - A highly respected institution ranked 67th, Villanova University is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the liberal arts, all within a vibrant campus life.

  3. University of Pennsylvania - This prestigious Ivy League university is ranked 6th overall and is renowned for its research and academic programs across various disciplines, including medicine, business, and law.

  4. Swarthmore College - Ranked 4th among liberal arts colleges, Swarthmore College emphasizes academic rigor and social responsibility, providing a unique educational experience.

  5. Haverford College - With a rank of 21, Haverford College is celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence and social justice in a close-knit community.

These schools not only provide quality education but also contribute to a rich academic atmosphere in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.0 · all 221 private health professions schools in the U.S.

Incidents, 2020–2022

Aggravated assault
123
Robbery
71
Drug arrests
25
Domestic violence
8
Rape
4
Motor vehicle theft
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

The crime data from Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences shows a fluctuating pattern over the years, indicating varying levels of safety on campus. Notably, the year 2020 stands out with a significant spike in the average crime rate per 1,000 students, reaching 67.92. This sharp increase may correlate with broader societal issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to heightened stress and potential increases in crime rates nationally.

In contrast, the year 2022 recorded no reported crimes, reflecting an extraordinary period of safety that could be attributed to effective campus safety measures, community engagement, or changes in student behavior. However, the following year, 2023, saw a resurgence in crime rates, with an average of 33.80 incidents per 1,000 students, suggesting that the previous year's zero incidents might have been an anomaly.

Analyzing the specific types of offenses reveals trends that can inform campus policy and safety strategies. For instance, the frequency of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents could guide targeted prevention programs. As higher education institutions increasingly prioritize student safety, understanding these trends is essential for fostering a secure learning environment.

Overall, while the data presents a mixed picture, it underscores the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining campus safety. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further details can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.