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Arcadia University and Messiah University are both private nonprofit institutions — Arcadia University in Glenside, PA and Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, PA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Glenside, PA · Private
Acceptance rate: 80.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,948
Tuition: $49,610/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 66.7%
Top programs: Biological sciences, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Glenside, PA with published program strength in Biological sciences and Business and marketing.
Mechanicsburg, PA · Private
Acceptance rate: 79.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,259
Tuition: $42,240/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 75.0%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Mechanicsburg, PA with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Arcadia University | Messiah University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 80.2% | 79.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1065–1265 |
| 1110–1350 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 25 average | 26–31 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,948 | 2,259 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $49,610/year | $42,240/year |
| Average net price after aid | $29,466 | $26,502 |
| Graduation rate | 66.7% | 75.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $58,336 | $54,064 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Glenside, PA | Mechanicsburg, PA |
| Largest program areas | Biological sciences, Business and marketing, Visual and performing arts | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (80.2% vs 79.0%). Messiah University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($26,502 vs $29,466). Messiah University reports the higher graduation rate (75.0% vs 66.7%). Messiah University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,259 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Arcadia University and Messiah University
Arcadia University has an acceptance rate of 80.2%; Messiah University is around 79.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Arcadia University tuition is $49,610/year. Messiah University is $42,240/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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