Messiah University

Messiah University's tuition is approximately $42,540 per year, but 100% of undergraduate students receive financial aid, with the average aid package for first-year students being $33,440. The university is recognized as a best value in its region, offering merit-based scholarships up to $24,000 per year. Students can calculate their true cost using tools available on the university's website.

Messiah University has a somewhat competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of 78%. The university looks for students who align with its Christian mission and academic excellence, evaluating applicants holistically based on academic performance, leadership, and extracurricular activities. Submission of standardized test results is optional, and domestic students may apply for free until Nov. 15 using the FALL promo code.

Messiah University offers a rigorous academic curriculum framed by a Christian context, with over 150 undergraduate majors and 20 graduate degrees. The university emphasizes experiential learning, off-campus study, and undergraduate research. With a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, students benefit from small class sizes and professors who are invested in their success.

Messiah University boasts a 95% placement rate for undergraduates within 6-9 months of graduation, with graduates employed or in graduate/professional programs. The university's career center is proactive in assisting students, and alumni networks and faculty connections help students prepare for life after graduation. Top employers include Deloitte, Ernst & Young, and Penn State Health.

Messiah University fosters a strong sense of community with a welcoming and friendly environment, where faith development is a core focus alongside academics. The campus culture is vibrant, particularly for those engaged in athletics, where a Christian culture fosters camaraderie and shared goals. Students can participate in over 60 clubs and organizations, intramural sports, and various campus ministries.

Messiah University prioritizes campus safety, providing a comprehensive program of security, crime prevention, and emergency medical care. The Department of Safety patrols the campus and provides safety services through vehicle, foot, and bicycle patrols. Eighteen campus emergency telephones are located throughout the campus, and students are encouraged to sign up for the Emergency Text Alert System.

Messiah University's Honors Program is designed for students who demonstrate high scholarly ability, offering a specialized curriculum and enrichment events. Students from all majors are eligible to participate, and those who meet the eligibility requirements are evaluated for the program. Most students selected for the Honors Program receive either full or partial tuition scholarships.

Messiah University welcomes students from over 40 countries, offering merit-based scholarships up to $24,000 per year for eligible international students. The university provides support for international students, including visa assistance and cross-cultural courses. In 2015, Messiah was ranked 25th among all undergraduate institutions in the country that send students to study abroad.