Pace University
Pace University has an acceptance rate of 75.9%, an average net price of $30,721, and an overall rank of #918 (Grade B). About 55.6% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $79,846 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Pace University is a private nonprofit university in New York, NY. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Information Science/Studies.
Academically, students benefit from a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, and 75.5% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 58.2%, roughly 8.3 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Pace University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Pace University graduates 55.6% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 63.8% and keeps 75.5% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Pace University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Est. annual aid gap: $41,831 Cash cost of attendance minus average net price after aid.
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $54,875 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $23,018 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,954 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $72,552 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 32.8% of Pace University students receive Pell Grants — slightly below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $27,012 to $37,189 depending on family income. Use Pace University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $30,846/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $37,189/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $79,846
- 10-Year Median Earnings $77,411
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $21,500
- Debt-to-Earnings ~26.9%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 63.6%
- Employment Rate 92.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Pace University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
Pace University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Pace University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Pace University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 600-680
- SAT Math 580-660
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 24-29
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 7,665
- Full-Time Students 96.3%
- Part-Time Students 3.7%
- Retention Rate 75.5%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 55.6%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 63.8%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 14:1
How to Get Into Pace University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Pace University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 75.9%, Pace University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 75.9% acceptance rate, Pace University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1180 and 1340 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Pace University undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Accounting and Related Services, and Finance and Financial Management Services draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 11.5%
- Accounting and Related Services 6.9%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 6.5%
- Communication and Media Studies 6.4%
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communi 5.4%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 4.8%
See more majors
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft 4.7%
- Economics 3.8%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $113,091
- 2. Information Science/Studies $106,489
- 3. Economics $100,496
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business/Commerce, General $99,308
- 5. Finance and Financial Management Services $98,341
- 6. Accounting and Related Services $97,717
- 7. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management $93,861
- 8. Computer Science $88,108
- 9. Marketing $85,031
- 10. Communication and Media Studies $72,510
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $180,068
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $162,466
- 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $143,103
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $137,027
- 5. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $136,308
- 6. Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degree) $136,022
- 7. Computer Science (Master's Degree) $116,499
- 8. Computer Software and Media Applications (Master's Degree) $110,053
- 9. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $109,620
- 10. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $107,462
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $113,091—56% more than Communication and Media Studies ($72,510). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $180,068 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
U.S. Department of Education data reports fully online programs for Pace University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Law (First Professional Degree, 257 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 218 graduates)
- Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree, 186 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree, 145 graduates)
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree, 117 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
U.S. Department of Education data flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (53 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Communication and Media Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Accounting and Related Services
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Science
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Biology, General
- Economics
- Political Science and Government
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Marketing
- Literature
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Dance
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- International Business
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Sociology and Anthropology
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, General
- History
- Information Science/Studies
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Security Science and Technology
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- English Language and Literature, General
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Chemistry
- Journalism
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Mathematics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Area Studies
- Special Education and Teaching
- Psychology, General
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians
Online Master's Degrees (35 programs)▼
- Special Education and Teaching
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- History
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Publishing
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Data Analytics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
- Nutrition Sciences
- Security Science and Technology
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Economics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Non-Professional Legal Studies
- International Business
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Behavioral Sciences
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Education, Other
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Social Sciences, General
Online Doctoral Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Business/Commerce, General
- Computer Science
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (9 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Publishing
- Special Education and Teaching
- Health Professions Education, Ethics, and Humanities
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (3 programs)▼
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Accounting and Related Services
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Law
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 7,665
- Full-Time Students 96.3%
- Part-Time Students 3.7%
- Male Students 34.6%
- Female Students 65.4%
- Caucasian 44.4%
- Asian 7.5%
- Hispanic 24.5%
- Black 11.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 32.8%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Pace University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Pace University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Pace University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Pace University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Pace University has a diverse student body, with 44.4% identifying as White. Women make up 65.4% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Pace University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Pace University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Pace University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 0.0% ROI. Ranked #918 overall, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $30,721 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $79,846 median earnings. With 55.6% graduating within 150% of normal time and 75.5% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Pace University's Positioning
With a B grade and #918 ranking, Pace University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $30,721 annually, Pace University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 75.5% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $21,505 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 0.0% ROI and $79,846 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $20,721+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Pace University ranks #918 of 1934 institutions, with 0 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 55.6% graduation rate sits 6.9 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 75.5% first-year retention is 1.3 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- Median earnings of $79,846 run about 30% higher than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $30,721 is roughly $10,814 higher than the national median of $19,908.
- 92.6% employment rate within three years is 24.4 points above the national 68.2%.
Helpfulness for Students
- 14:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 75.5% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 92.6% employment rate within three years sits 24.4 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $30,721 is about $10,814 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 32.8% trails the national share by 5.8 points, so equity work remains important.
- 48.0% of students borrow federal loans, outpacing typical campuses and raising repayment stakes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Pace University is a private nonprofit university based in New York, NY and earns a B overall grade. It is currently ranked #918 overall Category results include Completion (B), Support (B), Career Outcomes (B+), and Affordability (C).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
75.5% of learners come back after year one while 55.6% graduate within 150% of normal time (63.8% within eight years). Review the cost and aid tables for a full picture of value.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $30,721 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $72,552.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $41,831 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $21,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 32.8% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $79,846 five years after graduation. That sits about 30% above the national median.
Roughly 92.6% of graduates are employed three years out.
Use the ROI table above to estimate how long it may take to recoup your degree costs.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
75.9% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Pace University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Cite this profile
Add your access date when you publish.
APA (7th): EDsmart. (2026). Pace University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/pace-university/
MLA (9th): “Pace University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/pace-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “Pace University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/pace-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pace University's acceptance rate?
Pace University's acceptance rate is 75.9%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does Pace University cost?
At Pace University, listed tuition and fees are $54,875 per year, and the average net price after aid is $30,721. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Pace University's ranking?
Pace University ranks #918 overall in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Pace University's graduation rate?
At Pace University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 55.6% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 63.8%, and first-year retention is 75.5%.
What are Pace University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Pace University report median earnings of $79,846 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Pace University's student population?
Pace University enrolls about 7,665 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 1 Pace Plaza, New York, NY 10038-1598
- Website www.pace.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$232.4M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate28.1%