Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia
The Vibe Check
Saint Joseph's University feels like a tight-knit, spirited community where tradition meets opportunity in the heart of Philadelphia. The campus buzzes with Hawk pride, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages both personal growth and professional ambition. You'll quickly sense a strong emphasis on ethics and service, woven into the fabric of daily student life.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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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
Saint Joseph's offers a strong liberal arts core with standout programs in business, education, and health sciences, all delivered through a Jesuit lens of ethical leadership. The university prides itself on accessible, engaged faculty who prioritize mentorship and hands-on learning, ensuring classes are interactive rather than just lectures. Research opportunities are abundant, especially through partnerships with Philadelphia's robust healthcare and corporate sectors.
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 Philadelphia
Students take full advantage of Philadelphia's vibrant scene, from catching Phillies games and exploring the Museum District to enjoying diverse food markets like Reading Terminal. The campus shuttle makes it easy to dive into city life for concerts, internships, and cultural festivals, while the university's own events keep the social calendar packed. Whether it's biking along the Schuylkill River or discovering historic neighborhoods, Philly offers endless urban adventures.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($86,881):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in the safe and residential neighborhood of Mt. Airy, with strong security measures including 24/7 patrols and a well-lit campus. While the surrounding city requires standard urban awareness, SJU's location offers a quieter, more secure environment compared to downtown Philadelphia.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong alumni network and career services in the major Northeast corridor
- ✓ Personalized attention from accessible, dedicated faculty
- ✓ Beautiful, safe campus with a close-knit community feel
- ✓ Prime location for internships in business and healthcare
Cons
- ✗ High tuition cost without a corresponding elite national ranking
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing for upperclassmen
- ✗ Campus can feel small for students seeking a large university experience
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Saint Joseph's University is particularly renowned for its John R. Post School of Journalism, its highly-ranked Haub School of Business, and its strong programs in education and health sciences. As a Jesuit institution, it is also known for its emphasis on ethical leadership, community service, and a well-rounded liberal arts education that prepares students for thoughtful citizenship.
No, Saint Joseph's University is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of approximately 86.39%. This indicates that the university is accessible to a broad range of applicants. While meeting the average GPA and test scores is important, the admissions process also values a student's fit with the university's mission and community involvement.
Campus life at Saint Joseph's is characterized by a strong sense of community and school spirit, centered around traditions like the Hawk mascot and campus events. Students are actively involved in over 100 clubs and organizations, from service groups to performing arts. The university's location in the Mt. Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia provides a unique blend of a traditional campus feel with easy access to the city's amenities.
The value of a degree from Saint Joseph's University depends on the individual's financial aid package and career goals. With a 10-year median earnings of $86,881, many graduates see a solid return on investment, especially in business and healthcare fields. For students who leverage the strong alumni network and career services, the investment can be very worthwhile, though it's crucial to minimize debt through scholarships and aid.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1851
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- In-State Tuition $51,340
- Zip Code 19131
The Money Talk
With a sticker price of over $51,000 annually, SJU is a significant investment, but the 10-year median earnings of nearly $87,000 suggest a strong return for many graduates. The value is bolstered by the university's solid reputation in the Northeast, particularly for business and health fields, which can lead to lucrative career paths. However, prospective students should actively seek scholarships and aid, as the net price can vary greatly from the listed tuition.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.