Susquehanna University

Susquehanna offers 100+ majors and minors, with business (49 graduates annually), psychology (36), and finance (31) among the most popular. The Sigmund Weis School of Business stands out for its AACSB accreditation and global internships in 20+ countries. The Princeton Review praises the university’s “future-ready” liberal arts foundation, where small classes (average size: 17) foster close faculty mentorship. Unique strengths include creative writing (26 graduates) and a 75% four-year graduation rate—11 points above the national average.

Life at Susquehanna revolves around its tight-knit, residential campus—89% of students live on-site—and a culture of civic engagement. The university is nationally recognized for voter participation efforts, and clubs range from cultural organizations (e.g., Hispanic Heritage events) to investment groups managing real portfolios. The rural Selinsgrove location fosters camaraderie, with traditions like the “River Hawks” mascot and Division III athletics (Centennial Conference). Students describe professors as “passionate” and “personally invested,” with after-class coffees common.

Susquehanna’s 78% graduation rate (vs. 64% nationally) and 93% career placement rate within a year of graduation reflect its focus on ROI. Forbes ranks it in the top 12% of U.S. colleges for lifetime earnings, thanks to strong salaries in business and finance. The four-year graduation rate (75%) outpaces peers in the Centennial Conference, and alumni debt levels are below national averages—key factors in its ascent up rankings. Notably, 81% of first-years receive need-based aid, easing the path to these outcomes.

At $27,258 net price (after aid), Susquehanna is competitively priced for a private liberal arts college. The university meets 81% of first-years’ demonstrated need, with average grants of $45,853. Merit scholarships further reduce costs, though no full-ride awards are available. Payment plans and loan options help families manage the balance. 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 is transparent, and the financial aid office emphasizes personalized planning—critical given the school’s strong ROI focus.

Susquehanna defies the typical ‘mid-tier liberal arts college’ label with business programs that rival larger universities (thanks to AACSB accreditation and global internships) and a graduation rate 14 points above the national average. Its rural setting fosters intense community—89% live on campus—while outcomes like top-12% lifetime earnings attract career-focused students. The 82% acceptance rate?Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. makes it accessible, but the 78% graduation rate signals serious academic support. For families seeking ROI without cutthroat selectivity, Susquehanna delivers.