Stevenson University

Stevenson offers 90+ majors and pre-professional programs, with particular strength in career-oriented fields like nursing, business, and criminal justice. The 14:1 student-faculty ratio enables small classes—92% of courses have fewer than 30 students—and undergrads praise accessible professors. Unique offerings include BS-to-MS accelerated degrees and 30+ online certificates. While the Princeton Review highlights its 'liberal arts college atmosphere,' the curriculum leans pragmatic, with required internships for many majors.

Life at Stevenson revolves around its Owings Mills campus (ranked for having one of the Top 10 dorms nationally) and 80+ clubs, including 5 fraternities and 7 sororities. The dining halls—Rockland and North—earn nods for diverse options, while traditions like 'Mustang Week' foster community. Though some students call the social scene 'quiet,' the university organizes off-campus trips to Baltimore (just 20 minutes away). Instagram posts from @su_studentlifeandleadership showcase events ranging from DIY craft nights to body positivity workshops.

Stevenson reports a 91% post-grad success rate (employment or grad school), outperforming national averages. However, its 63% six-year graduation rate (per College Scorecard) trails peer institutions. Alumni median earnings $66,853—slightly above the national midpoint—reflect strengths in healthcare and business fields. The ROI is strongest for graduate degree holders, with the university noting that 'professional degrees are the most financially beneficial' long-term.

At $60,820 total annual cost ($41,270 tuition + $15,550 room/board), Stevenson is pricey—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. to $28,201. The average aid package is $36,329, mixing merit scholarships (like the $10K–$22K Stevenson Grant) and need-based aid?Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements.. The university claims its cost is 'competitive with large public schools,' though out-of-state flagships like UMD-College Park run $10K cheaper even before aid.

Stevenson carves a niche as a career accelerator with a residential college feel. Its suburban-Baltimore location feeds internship pipelines (90% of students complete at least one), while the 14:1 ratio ensures faculty mentorship. Though graduation rates are middling, the 91% job-placement metric validates its professional focus. For Marylanders seeking small classes and pre-professional advising without cutthroat admissions, it’s a pragmatic choice—if the financial aid math works.