Mount Aloysius College

Life here is unapologetically small-town: think hiking in the Alleghenies (the campus is a 15-minute drive from outdoor recreation) and tight-knit dorm communities (44% of students live on campus). The Catholic identity looms large—Niche notes an emphasis on 'mercy, respect, and acceptance'—but without rigid piety. Sports (NCAA Division III) and student-led activities fill the social calendar. One student’s testimonial on the campus newspaper’s blog captures the vibe: 'It’s been the stage of my life where I’ve grown the most.'

The 56% graduation rate (per College Scorecard) trails national averages, but the college serves a high proportion of first-gen?First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. and Pell-eligible students (40% graduation rate for Pell recipients vs. 57% for non-recipients). Alumni earn a median $36,427 one year post-graduation (Niche)—respectable for rural Pennsylvania, though not transformative. Nursing grads likely pull these numbers up; the college doesn’t publish major-specific earnings data.

Sticker price hits $41,560 for tuition and fees (CollegeData), but 99% of students receive aid, bringing the average 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. down to $20,570 (College Board). First-years typically get $19,719 in need-based grants (U.S. News). The college sweetens the deal with quirky incentives like a $1,000 scholarship raffle for students who submit FAFSA by April 1. Still, the average aid package ($16,249) leaves many with significant gaps to fill.

Mount Aloysius is the underdog’s launchpad: a no-frills, high-touch college where nursing students train on simulation mannequins just miles from trout streams and hiking trails. Its Mercy Catholic ethos fosters a ‘come as you are’ community (Niche), while its tiny classes guarantee professors know your name. For Pennsylvania kids seeking affordable career preparation without the chaos of a big school—and who don’t mind trading urban excitement for fire pits and Friday night basketball games—it’s a compelling pick.