Arcadia University

Arcadia offers a liberal arts education with notable strengths in health sciences, education, and creative writing. Popular majors include Public Health (4%), Business Administration (4%), and Teacher Education (4%), reflecting its professional orientation. Small class sizes—enabled by a 1:12 faculty-student ratio—define the academic experience, with alumni praising professors for being "attentive and supportive." The university emphasizes global learning, with robust study abroad programs integrated into many curricula. The creative writing program, in particular, receives accolades for its tight-knit community and mentorship opportunities.

Life at Arcadia revolves around its safe, suburban campus, where students describe a culture of "individualized attention" and global curiosity. The university actively fosters community through events like Summer Welcome for admitted students and promotes apartment-style living (see Oak Summit tours). Social media highlights a lively but low-pressure atmosphere, with TikTok and Instagram showcasing campus traditions like "Castle Culture"—a nod to the historic Grey Towers Castle on campus. Students frequently cite the ease of finding study groups and support systems, though the lack of Greek life shifts social focus to university-sponsored activities.

Arcadia reports a 58.7% four-year graduation rate (placing it in the 78th percentile among peers), though post-graduate earnings trail national averages. Graduates earn a median salary of $36,427 one year after graduation, with knowledge rates of alumni outcomes ranging from 73–86% depending on class year. The university emphasizes career readiness through its Career Launchpad initiative, but federal data shows only 5% of graduates earn significantly more than high school diploma holders. Health sciences and education majors dominate employment sectors, reflecting the institution’s academic strengths.

The net price after aid averages $26,994, with the university offering $31,015 in average aid packages per student. Arcadia provides a Net Price Calculator to estimate costs, emphasizing need-based grants and merit scholarships. Tuition transparency is a priority, though the institution’s sticker price remains steep for a regional liberal arts college. Financial aid applications are streamlined, with the university promoting its Shopping Sheet tool to demystify expenses.

Arcadia distinguishes itself through hyper-personalized education—small classes, accessible faculty, and a 1:12 ratio—and an unabashed focus on global citizenship. The presence of Grey Towers Castle (a National Historic Site) on campus symbolizes its blend of tradition and forward-thinking, particularly in health sciences and study abroad. While its outcomes data is middling, students who thrive here are those seeking close mentorship and a launchpad for globally inflected careers, not cutthroat prestige. It’s a college for learners who want their professors to know their names—and their aspirations.