Alvernia University
The Vibe Check
Alvernia University offers a warm, intimate campus atmosphere rooted in its Franciscan values, creating a close-knit community where students feel known and supported. The urban setting in Reading provides a blend of collegiate charm and real-world accessibility, making it feel like a practical and caring environment for personal growth.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Alvernia excels in career-focused programs, particularly in Health Professions, Business, and Criminal Justice, with strong experiential learning through its 'Franciscan Network' of regional partners. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from accessible faculty, and students benefit from hands-on research and internship opportunities integrated into the curriculum.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Reading
Students in Reading can explore local gems like the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, which offers galleries, classes, and events, or enjoy outdoor activities at nearby Nolde Forest. For nightlife and dining, the city's downtown area provides a mix of restaurants, bars, and cultural festivals that appeal to a college crowd.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($55,055):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Alvernia has its own campus safety department with 24/7 patrols and emergency systems, fostering a secure academic environment. The surrounding Reading area requires standard urban precautions, but the campus itself is generally considered safe and well-monitored.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong focus on practical, career-oriented majors like Health Professions and Business with excellent internship networks.
- ✓ Personalized learning environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty.
- ✓ Franciscan values promote a supportive, ethical community atmosphere.
- ✓ Urban location in Reading offers real-world experience and local amenities.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 60.8% may indicate challenges in student persistence for some.
- ✗ Tuition at $42,810 is high for a regional private university, potentially leading to debt.
- ✗ Retention rate of 72.6% suggests some students transfer out after the first year.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Alvernia University is known for its strong programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Criminal Justice, and Psychology, emphasizing experiential learning and ethical leadership through its Franciscan heritage. The university partners with regional healthcare and business organizations to provide hands-on internships and research, preparing students for immediate career entry in the Reading area and beyond.
No, Alvernia University has an acceptance rate of 62.32%, making it moderately selective and accessible for many applicants. With an average SAT score of 1160, competitive applicants typically have a strong GPA and demonstrate alignment with the school's values through essays or extracurriculars.
Campus life at Alvernia is intimate and community-driven, with a student body of 2,042 fostering close connections through residence halls, clubs, and Franciscan-inspired service activities. Students enjoy urban access to Reading's cultural events and outdoor spaces, balancing academics with social involvement and personal development.
Alvernia can be a worthwhile investment, especially for students pursuing high-demand fields like health professions, where the 10-year median earnings of $55,055 align well with the average net price of $28,329. However, with tuition at $42,810, prospective students should maximize scholarships and grants to minimize debt, as the value depends on major choice and post-graduation job placement in the regional economy.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,584
- In-State Tuition $42,810
- Zip Code 19607
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $28,329 and tuition at $42,810, Alvernia's cost is moderate for a private university, especially with 33.7% of students receiving Pell Grants. The 10-year median earnings of $55,055 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like health professions and business in the regional market.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.