Pace University

Pace’s academic offerings are career-forward, with standout programs in business, performing arts, and health sciences. The most popular majors include Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services (per [US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/pace-university-2791/academics)), alongside Visual and Performing Arts. The university emphasizes small classes and mentorship, with a curriculum designed to integrate real-world experience ([Pace Academics](https://www.pace.edu/academics)).

Notable programs:

• Acting for Film and Media (BFA): A competitive program leveraging NYC’s entertainment industry ([Programs A-Z](https://catalog.pace.edu/undergraduate/programs-a-z/)).
• Combined Degree options: Accelerated pathways like BS/MPH in Public Health ([Programs A-Z](https://catalog.pace.edu/undergraduate/programs-a-z/)).

Students praise the practical focus, though some note variability in professor engagement ([Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/AskNYC/comments/178uvgo/is_pace_university_a_good_school/)).

Life at Pace’s NYC campus is fast-paced and socially vibrant, with clubs, Greek life, and cultural groups like Hillel drawing participation ([Princeton Review](https://www.princetonreview.com/college/pace-university-1023988)). Students highlight drag brunches and food truck days as signature events. Residential life is described as communal, with active student leaders organizing events ([Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/PaceUniversity/comments/1bqr7r9/daughter_just_committed_to_pace_nyc_campus_best/)).

Safety: 83% of students report feeling extremely secure on campus ([Niche](https://www.niche.com/colleges/pace-university/campus-life/)), though the urban setting requires typical city awareness. The university’s location in Lower Manhattan provides easy access to internships, networking, and NYC’s cultural scene ([Campus Life](https://www.pace.edu/campus-life/nyc-campus)).

Pace delivers strong employment results: 90% of 2025 graduates were employed, in grad school, or in service within six months, with 82% working in their field ([Career Services](https://www.pace.edu/career-services/facts-and-figures)). The average full-time salary for bachelor’s grads is $75,827—$11,164 above the national average ([LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/pace-university_great-results-from-career-services-at-pace-activity-7258223765078130689-nhvj), [CollegeIQ](https://collegeiq.com/colleges/pace-university/academics)).

The graduation rate is 61%, placing Pace in the top 45% of comparable institutions ([Research.com](https://research.com/best-colleges/pace-university/graduation-rate-and-career)). Alumni often credit the university’s NYC connections for their career launches.

Pace’s sticker price is high, but 64.88% of students receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $44,366 ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/pace-university/tuition-and-costs)). The net price after aid is $34,299 for many students. Merit scholarships are generous, with a dedicated estimator tool to project awards ([Tuition & Cost](https://www.pace.edu/admission-and-aid/undergraduate-admission/tuition-and-cost)).

Key notes:

• Aid includes grants, work-study, and loans ([Financial Aid](https://www.pace.edu/financial-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. Calculator helps families plan ([Calculator](https://www.pace.edu/admission-and-aid/undergraduate-admission/tuition-and-cost/net-price-calculator)).

Pace’s NYC adjacency is its superpower: students intern at Wall Street firms, Broadway theaters, and global NGOs—often before graduating. The Lubin School of Business and Performing Arts programs are standouts, with faculty who are active industry professionals. While the urban campus lacks traditional quad vibes, the trade-off is unparalleled access to opportunities. For students seeking a no-nonsense, career-focused education with a moderate admissions barrier, Pace delivers.