Siena Heights University

Siena Heights offers a blend of liberal arts and professional programs, with a standout Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) degree requiring 120 credit hours. The education program is particularly notable, with graduates describing themselves as 'prepared, confident, employed.' Faculty are praised for their willingness to accommodate students balancing academics with other responsibilities, fostering a flexible learning environment. The university's Catholic identity and liberal arts foundation are central to its academic mission, as highlighted in promotional materials.

Student life at Siena Heights revolves around a close-knit, supportive community. The Division of Student Life emphasizes holistic growth—'mind, body, and spirit'—with spaces like the Ledwidge and Sacred Heart courtyard and Sage Union (a nostalgic hangout spot for alumni) serving as social hubs. Students describe the campus as welcoming and diverse, with a mix of quiet study spots and lively gathering areas. Weekend events, including rock bands in Sage Union, have historically been a draw.

Graduates of Siena Heights earn a median salary of $36,427 one year post-graduation, slightly below state and national averages. The university's six-year graduation rate ranks #1,016 out of 1,793 institutions nationally, reflecting its challenges with retention. While Money Magazine included SHU in its rankings (spot #658 in 2018), its outcomes are middling compared to peers. The education program's emphasis on employability stands out, but broader institutional performance is mixed.

Siena Heights' 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. averages $17,124–$17,740 after aid, with 100% of students receiving some form of financial assistance. The average grant award is $13,789, and institutional grants average $10,525. The university meets 82% of students' financial need, though this varies by family income. The Net Price Calculator helps estimate costs, but the sticker price before aid is steep for a regional institution with modest post-grad earnings.

Siena Heights distinguishes itself through its flexible, student-centered approach—particularly for non-traditional learners—and its strong education program that produces employable graduates. The campus's intimate scale fosters mentorship, and its Catholic identity adds a values-driven layer to the liberal arts curriculum. While not a powerhouse in rankings or outcomes, it offers a supportive environment where students describe feeling 'seen' by faculty. Its quirks, like the beloved courtyard between Ledwidge and Sacred Heart, give it a homespun charm rare in higher ed.