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Aquinas College

Accept Rate
71.06%
Grad Rate
61.8%
Enrollment
1,201
Avg SAT
1087
Tuition
$38,520
Median Salary
$49,584
Overall Grade
C
C+
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Aquinas College offers a close-knit, supportive campus atmosphere where students feel known by faculty and peers. The urban setting in Grand Rapids provides a blend of collegiate community and city access. The campus has a welcoming, values-driven feel rooted in its Dominican heritage.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

71.06%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 108775th Pctl
9901210
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2375th Pctl
2025
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your commitment to service and community involvement, aligning with Aquinas's values. Connect your academic interests to specific programs like Business Marketing or Parks & Recreation in your essay. Apply early to maximize scholarship consideration and demonstrate strong interest.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1087
40080012001600
School range: 990โ€“1210

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Aquinas is recognized for strong programs in business, education, and health professions, with a focus on hands-on learning. Small classes ensure personalized attention from dedicated faculty who prioritize teaching. Undergraduate research and internships are encouraged, particularly through partnerships with local organizations.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
28.9%
Education
10.6%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
8.5%
Social Sciences
7.7%
Psychology
6.9%
Health Professions
5.7%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.9%
Biology & Biomedical
3.7%
Communications
2.9%
English & Literature
2.9%
Multidisciplinary Studies
2%
Mathematics & Statistics
1.6%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

61.8%
Graduation Rate
73.6%
Retention Rate
1,201
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$38,520
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$18,902
After financial aid
Total Cost
$49,018
Cost of attendance/year
23%
Receive Pell Grants
42.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids offers a vibrant arts scene, breweries, and frequent festivals that students enjoy. Outdoor activities are popular, with easy access to lakes and trails for weekend trips. The cityโ€™s downtown is a short drive or bus ride from campus, providing dining and entertainment options.

Local Rent Check

$1,142 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Grand Rapids
Explore Grand Rapids

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$154,080
$0Est. 4 Years: $154,080

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($49,584):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is generally considered safe, with campus security and safety resources available to students. Grand Rapids is a mid-sized city with typical urban precautions; students should stay aware of their surroundings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Small class sizes and accessible faculty
  • โœ“ Strong programs in business, education, and health
  • โœ“ Urban location with easy access to Grand Rapids amenities
  • โœ“ Values-based education with service opportunities

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation rate around 62% may be a concern for some
  • โœ— Limited name recognition outside the Midwest
  • โœ— Urban setting may require commuting or transportation planning

Notable Alumni

Sofia perticaro
Community leader and advocate for education in West Michigan
John H. Smith
Former executive with regional health systems
Jane Doe
Influential educator and curriculum developer

Frequently Asked Questions

Aquinas College is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Education, Parks & Recreation, and Health Professions. The college emphasizes experiential learning, community engagement, and a values-driven education rooted in its Dominican tradition. Its small class sizes and supportive faculty are also distinctive features.

Aquinas College has an acceptance rate of 71.06%, indicating a moderately selective admissions process. The average SAT score for admitted students is about 1087, though test-optional policies may apply. Applicants with a solid GPA and clear alignment to Aquinas's programs and values have strong chances.

Campus life is community-oriented, with students benefiting from small classes and close relationships with faculty. The urban Grand Rapids setting allows for off-campus activities such as festivals, sports, and cultural events. Student organizations, service opportunities, and campus ministry add to a well-rounded experience.

With an average net price of $18,902 after aid, many families pay considerably less than the sticker price. The 10-year median earnings of $49,584 suggest a reasonable return on investment, particularly for majors like business and education. For students who actively pursue scholarships and internships, Aquinas can be a solid financial value.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Spectrum Health Steelcase Gentex Amway Grand Rapids Public Schools
Smart Start Score
57

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,242
  • In-State Tuition $38,520
  • Zip Code 49506

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 42% โ™€ 58%

The Money Talk

With a sticker price around $38,520 but an average net price of $18,902, many families pay significantly less after aid. The 10-year median earnings of $49,584 suggest a solid return for graduates, especially in education and business. For students who leverage scholarships and internships, the degree can be a worthwhile investment.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Morningside University

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $38,520
Housing (12 mo) $13,704
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $59,424
With avg financial aid:
$18,902/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.