Marist University
Marist University has an acceptance rate of 56.5%, annual tuition of $47,750, average net price of $41,544, and a national rank of #1412 (Grade C+), with a 79.6% six-year graduation rate, about 5,182 undergraduates, and median earnings of $62,546 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Marist University is a private nonprofit university in Poughkeepsie, NY. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Economics.
Academically, students benefit from a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, and 86.1% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at -62.4%, roughly 147.7 points below typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Marist University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Marist University graduates 79.6% of students within six years and keeps 86.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a D+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Marist 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 | $47,750 |
| Books and Supplies | $2,425 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $18,460 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,220 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $67,574 |
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 14.4% of Marist University students receive Pell Grants — 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 $26,083 to $45,643 depending on family income. Use Marist University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $42,001/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $45,643/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $62,546
- 10-Year Median Earnings $62,546
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $21,500
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 79.3%
- Employment Rate 49.7%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Marist 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.
Marist University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Marist University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Marist University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Marist University graduates earn $62,546 median, the -62.4% 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 600-680
- SAT Math 590-660
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 25-31
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 5,182
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 86.1%
- Graduation Rate 79.6%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1
How to Get Into Marist University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Marist 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 56.5%, Marist 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 56.5% acceptance rate, Marist 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 1190 and 1340 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Marist University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Communication and Media Studies, and Psychology, General draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 21.9%
- Communication and Media Studies 13.8%
- Psychology, General 7.6%
- Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Op 7.4%
- Biology, General 4.9%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 4.6%
See more majors
- Psychology, Other 4.3%
- Computer Science 4.2%
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. Computer Science $120,803
- 2. Economics $117,164
- 3. Computer and Information Sciences, General $100,196
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Legal Support Services $92,768
- 5. Accounting and Related Services $90,235
- 6. Business Administration, Management and Operations $89,506
- 7. Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions $88,213
- 8. Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations $81,498
- 9. Biology, General $80,780
- 10. Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics $76,907
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $126,503
- 2. Computer Software and Media Applications (Master's Degree) $112,680
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $112,359
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Public Administration (Master's Degree) $96,529
- 5. Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $87,187
- 6. Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication (Master's Degree) $86,248
- 7. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $72,582
- 8. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $70,659
- 9. Psychology, Other (Master's Degree) $69,265
- 10. Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Master's Degree) $49,936
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $120,803—57% more than Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics ($76,907). Graduate: Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions programs lead with $126,503 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Marist 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
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 293 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 185 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 102 graduates)
- Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 99 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 65 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 (35 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Communication and Media Studies
- Psychology, General
- Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations
- Biology, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Psychology, Other
- Computer Science
- Political Science and Government
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Accounting and Related Services
- Design and Applied Arts
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Economics
- Applied Mathematics
- Social Work
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- English Language and Literature, General
- History
- Mathematics
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Philosophy
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Chemistry
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Special Education and Teaching
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, General
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Area Studies
Online Master's Degrees (11 programs)â–¼
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Accounting and Related Services
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Psychology, Other
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Psychology, General
- Museology/Museum Studies
- Computer Programming
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)â–¼
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (3 programs)â–¼
- Legal Support Services
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Fine and Studio Arts
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 5,182
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 41.9%
- Female Students 58.1%
- Caucasian 71.6%
- Asian 3.9%
- Hispanic 14.3%
- Black 3.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients 14.4%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Marist University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Marist University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Marist University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Marist University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: The student body is 71.6% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average. About 14.4% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Marist University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Marist University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Marist University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -62.4% ROI. Ranked #1412 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $41,544 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $62,546 median earnings. With 79.6% graduating within six years and 86.1% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Marist University's Positioning
With a C+ grade and #1412 ranking, Marist University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $41,544 annually, Marist University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 86.1% 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 $29,081 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -62.4% ROI and $62,546 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $31,544+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Marist University ranks #1412 of 6101 institutions, with 1426 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
- 79.6% six-year graduation rate sits 17.1 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 86.1% first-year retention is 9.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -62.4% return on investment is 147.7 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $62,546 run about 43% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $41,544 is roughly $24,147 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 86.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 49.7% employment rate within three years sits 18.5 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $41,544 is about $24,147 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 14.4% trails the national share by 24.7 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Poughkeepsie, NY, Marist University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a C+ from EDsmart. It stands at #1412 among 6101 schools Completion earns A-, Support B, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability D+.
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.
Student momentum is strong: 86.1% retention and 79.6% six-year graduation. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -62.4%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
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 $41,544 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $67,574.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $26,030 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $21,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 14.4% 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
Median earnings come in near $62,546 six years after enrollment. That sits about 43% above the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 49.7% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -62.4%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
56.5% 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 Marist 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Marist University's acceptance rate?
Marist University's acceptance rate is 56.5%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Marist University cost?
At Marist University, listed tuition and fees are $47,750 per year, and the average net price after aid is $41,544. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Marist University's ranking?
Marist University ranks #1412 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Marist University's graduation rate?
At Marist University, the six-year graduation rate is 79.6%, and first-year retention is 86.1%.
What are Marist University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Marist University report median earnings of $62,546 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Marist University's student population?
Marist University enrolls about 5,182 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
- Website www.marist.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$412.1M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate15.6%