Eastern Mennonite University

EMU offers a liberal arts curriculum with a strong emphasis on service, social justice, and global engagement [[17]](https://emu.edu/). Popular majors include Public Administration and Social Service Professions (4%), Biological and Biomedical Sciences (4%), and Social Sciences (3%) [[14]](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/eastern-mennonite-university-3708/academics). The university is particularly known for its peacebuilding and conflict transformation programs, as well as its nursing and education degrees [[13]](https://emu.edu/academics/degree-programs). Small class sizes (average student-faculty ratio of 10:1) ensure personalized attention, and the curriculum integrates hands-on learning, including cross-cultural study requirements [[15]](https://emu.edu/academics/).

EMU’s tight-knit community is central to its identity, with a strong focus on holistic student development—physical, spiritual, emotional, and social [[19]](https://emu.edu/studentlife/). On-campus housing is vibrant, with residence halls designed to foster community and inclusivity [[21]](https://emu.edu/studentlife/residence-life/). Student activities range from trivia nights and open mics to glow dances and “zombies vs. humans” games [[22]](https://emu.edu/now/news/video/emu-student-life-on-campus-fun/). The International Students Organization (ISO) is particularly active, promoting cross-cultural exchange [[24]](https://emu.edu/studentlife/clubs/websites/iso). Reviews highlight the friendly, supportive atmosphere, though some note the limited nightlife options in Harrisonburg [[20]](https://www.niche.com/colleges/eastern-mennonite-university/campus-life/).

EMU’s six-year graduation rate is 58%, with an eight-year rate of 73% [[25]](https://emu.edu/about/accreditation/student-achievement), [[27]](https://research.schev.edu/iProfile/232043/Eastern-Mennonite-University). Male students graduate at a slightly higher rate (44%) than female students [[28]](https://research.com/best-colleges/eastern-mennonite-university/graduation-rate-and-career). The university excels in preparing students for graduate programs, with 86% acceptance rates to medical schools and 88% to physical therapy schools [[9]](https://emu.edu/about/facts). Career outcomes vary, but many graduates pursue service-oriented roles aligned with EMU’s Mennonite values [[29]](https://www.easternmennonite.org/about/outcomes/). The average salary for graduates is not publicly reported, but the university emphasizes lifelong learning and community impact over purely financial metrics [[26]](https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?232043-Eastern-Mennonite-University).

EMU’s tuition and fees total $24,710 after scholarships and grants, with 72.1% of students receiving financial aid [[33]](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/eastern-mennonite-university/tuition-and-costs). The average need-based scholarship for first-year students is $32,415, and 77% of first-years receive aid [[32]](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/eastern-mennonite-university-3708/paying). Merit-based scholarships range from $18,000 to $27,000 per year and are renewable for four years [[35]](https://emu.edu/financial-aid/prospective/). 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. calculator helps families estimate costs, though the EFC (Expected Family Contribution) is not the same as the final cost [[36]](https://www.collegeraptor.com/Shopping/Sheet/Eastern-Mennonite-University-VA--232043). EMU is committed to affordability, but students should still plan for additional expenses like housing and meals [[34]](https://www.niche.com/colleges/eastern-mennonite-university/cost/).

EMU’s Mennonite roots infuse its campus with a deep commitment to peace, service, and social justice—values that shape its academics, student life, and global programs [[17]](https://emu.edu/). The university’s 100% acceptance rate makes it unusually accessible for a private liberal arts college, while its strong graduate school placement rates (86% for med school) reflect its academic rigor [[9]](https://emu.edu/about/facts). The cross-cultural study requirement ensures every student engages with global perspectives, and the small, supportive community fosters close faculty-student relationships [[15]](https://emu.edu/academics/). For students seeking a values-driven education with a focus on making a difference, EMU offers a unique blend of accessibility, purpose, and hands-on learning.