DeSales University

DeSales offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across 40+ programs, with particular strength in health professions (nursing, physician assistant studies) and business. The curriculum blends liberal arts with professional preparation, featuring small class sizes and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Popular majors include nursing, business administration, and criminal justice, while unique offerings like TV/film and theatre programs leverage the university's performing arts center. Some students note that certain majors could expand their course offerings, but praise the faculty's accessibility and mentorship.

Life at DeSales balances Catholic traditions (weekly Mass, service opportunities) with typical college vibes—47% of students live on campus in housing that costs ~$14,200/year. The suburban 550-acre campus, nestled among rolling hills, hosts 50+ clubs, from esports to campus ministry. Students report feeling exceptionally safe (100% in Niche polls), and social life revolves around DII athletics (Go Bulldogs!), open-mic nights, and events like the DeSales Day carnival. With Allentown nearby, off-campus options abound, though many prefer the tight-knit campus community.

DeSales graduates 69% of students within 4 years (on par with national averages for private colleges), with rates rising to 70% at 6 years. Alumni often enter healthcare or business, though early-career salaries average $24,287—reflecting the prevalence of service-oriented roles. The university emphasizes career prep through internships (90+% participation in some majors) and a strong alumni network. Notably, Pell Grant recipients graduate at nearly the same rate (67%) as the overall student body, signaling strong support for lower-income students.

DeSales positions itself as a high-value private school, with 99% of undergraduates receiving financial aid and an average grant award of $17,431. After aid, the net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. drops to ~$30,524/year (including $14,200 for room/board). The university meets 70% of demonstrated need on average, though 78% of students still take loans. Merit scholarships (averaging $15,162) reward strong academics, while payment plans and work-study help bridge gaps. For context: total COA before aid is $59,000, slightly below comparable Pennsylvania privates.

DeSales carves a niche as a career-focused Catholic university that avoids the austerity of some faith-based schools. Its PA program (with a cadaver lab) and nursing simulations rival larger institutions, while the ACCESS program provides tailored support for students with learning differences. The campus—equal parts serene and spirited—hosts a professional-grade theater yet still feels like a community where professors know your name. For students seeking a mid-sized school with Division II sports, robust aid, and Philadelphia/New York proximity, DeSales delivers without the cutthroat pressure of elite colleges.