Alvernia University
Alvernia University is a private nonprofit university in Reading, PA ranked #1073 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B-, enrolling about 2,042 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 62.3%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Business Administration, Management and Operations.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, 72.6% first-year retention, and 58.5% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $28,329, about $11,331 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -55.9%, roughly 141.2 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $49,938. That's about $6,250 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Alvernia University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Alvernia University graduates 58.5% of students within six years and keeps 72.6% 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 Alvernia 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
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 | $42,810 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $15,090 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,500 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $54,650 |
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 33.7% of Alvernia 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 $27,979 to $30,036 depending on family income. Use Alvernia University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $27,019/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $30,036/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $49,938
- 10-Year Median Earnings $49,938
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $20,500
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 62.3%
- Employment Rate 88.3%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Alvernia University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Alvernia University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Alvernia University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Alvernia University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Alvernia University graduates earn $49,938 median, the -55.9% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 528-620
- SAT Math 538-633
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 2,042
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 72.6%
- Graduation Rate 58.5%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 12:1
How to Get Into Alvernia University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Alvernia 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 62.3%, Alvernia 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 62.3% acceptance rate, Alvernia 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 1066 and 1253 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Alvernia University undergraduates. Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences,, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen draw the most students.
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, 15.4%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 15.0%
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen 8.6%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 7.9%
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Profe 6.9%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 6.4%
See more majors
- Biology, General 4.1%
- Accounting and Related Services 3.9%
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 $89,545
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations $70,877
- 3. Accounting and Related Services $66,067
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Marketing $65,506
- 5. Criminal Justice and Corrections $57,257
- 6. Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General $50,786
- 7. Social Work $49,329
- 8. Communication and Media Studies $47,967
- 9. Psychology, General $47,525
- 10. Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions $46,595
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $90,616
- 2. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree) $74,704
- 3. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degree) $73,783
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Master's Degree) $55,338
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $89,545—92% more than Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions ($46,595). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $90,616 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Alvernia 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 – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree, 90 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree, 81 graduates)
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other (Bachelor's Degree, 72 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 70 graduates)
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General (Associate's Degree, 66 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard 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 (27 programs)▼
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Biology, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Marketing
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Security Science and Technology
- Social Work
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Political Science and Government
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Mathematics
- History
- English Language and Literature, General
- Biological and Physical Sciences
- Philosophy
- Education, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Business/Commerce, General
Online Master's Degrees (11 programs)▼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Social Work
- Education, General
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)▼
- Human Resources Management and Services
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)▼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 2,042
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 36.9%
- Female Students 63.1%
- Caucasian 61.1%
- Asian 1.5%
- Hispanic 15.3%
- Black 10.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients 33.7%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Alvernia University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Alvernia University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Alvernia 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 Alvernia University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Women make up 63.1% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Alvernia 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 Alvernia University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Alvernia University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -55.9% ROI. Ranked #1073 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $28,329 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $49,938 median earnings. With 58.5% graduating within six years and 72.6% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Alvernia University's Positioning
With a B- grade and #1073 ranking, Alvernia University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $28,329 annually, Alvernia University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 72.6% 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 $19,830 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -55.9% ROI and $49,938 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $18,329+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Alvernia University ranks #1073 of 1971 institutions, with 1333 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
- 58.5% six-year graduation rate sits 4.0 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 72.6% first-year retention is 4.2 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -55.9% return on investment is 141.2 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $49,938 run about 14% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $28,329 is roughly $8,430 higher than the national median of $19,899.
Helpfulness for Students
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 72.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 88.3% employment rate within three years sits 20.1 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $28,329 is about $8,430 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Alvernia University, a private nonprofit university in Reading, PA, secures a B- grade in our latest review. It appears at #1073 in EDsmart's national list 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.
About 72.6% of first-year students return, and roughly 58.5% finish within six years. The reported ROI is -55.9%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
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 $28,329 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $54,650.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $26,321 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $20,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 33.7% 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 $49,938 six years after entry. That sits about 14% above the national median.
Roughly 88.3% of graduates are employed three years out.
The ROI comes in near -55.9%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
62.3% 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 Alvernia 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
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Contact Information
- Address Reading, PA 19607-1799
- Website www.alvernia.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$15.6M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate31.0%