Marywood University

Marywood offers over 50 majors across its undergraduate and graduate programs, with standout departments in visual and performing arts (6% of majors), psychology (6%), and homeland security (2%). The university is particularly known for niche programs like aviation management, architecture, and information security, which blend professional training with liberal arts foundations. Academic structure is organized into distinct colleges, including the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Health and Human Services, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Small class sizes and a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio underscore its commitment to personalized education.

Campus life at Marywood balances tradition with modern engagement: 41% of students live on campus, while the rest commute, creating a mix of residential and commuter dynamics. The university offers 60+ student clubs, Greek life, and leadership programs, with a strong emphasis on community service—a nod to its Catholic mission. Athletics (NCAA Division III) and arts events, like theater productions and gallery exhibitions, anchor social life. Reviews highlight the safe, inclusive environment, though some note the suburban Scranton location limits off-campus excitement. Housing options range from traditional dorms to apartment-style living for upperclassmen.

Marywood’s 73% six-year graduation rate outpaces national averages, with Pell Grant recipients graduating at 61%. Alumni median earnings hover around $43,928 early-career, and the average time to degree is 4.3 years. The university emphasizes career-ready outcomes, with strong placement in education, healthcare, and public service. In 2024, it awarded 786 degrees, 68% to women, reflecting its historic roots as a women’s college (now co-ed). Recent rankings highlight its strength in value-added metrics, such as outperforming graduation-rate predictions based on student demographics.

Tuition at Marywood is offset by generous aid: 83% of first-year students receive need-based scholarships or grants, averaging $33,739 per recipient. The university distributes over $31 million annually in aid, including merit-based awards like the Access & Achievement Scholarship (up to $3,000/year). 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 $24,712 for many students, though median debt at graduation is $26,186. The financial aid office actively promotes its net price calculator to help families estimate costs, and work-study opportunities are widely available.

Marywood carves a distinct niche with its Catholic identity fused to career-focused pragmatism—think nursing students volunteering at Scranton clinics or art majors exhibiting in campus galleries. Its aviation management program is a rarity among small liberal arts colleges, and the 73% graduation rate signals strong student support. The campus vibe is unpretentious and communal, with traditions like Midnight Breakfast during finals week. While not a research powerhouse, Marywood excels in applied fields, leveraging its Scranton location for internships and service. For students seeking a tight-knit community with professional upside, it’s a compelling choice.