Pace University
Pace University has an acceptance rate of 75.9%, annual tuition of $53,290, average net price of $30,892, and a national rank of #1449 (Grade C+), with a 60.0% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 7,665 undergraduates, and median earnings of $80,804 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard 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 58.6%, roughly 8.7 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 60.0% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 62.4% 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
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 | $53,290 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $22,553 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,608 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $69,550 |
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 27.3% of Pace 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 $26,473 to $36,430 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 $31,219/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $36,430/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $80,804
- 10-Year Median Earnings $70,378
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $23,250
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 63.6%
- Employment Rate 52.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Pace 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.
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.
EDsmart Insight: Pace University graduates earn $80,804 median four years after graduation, +34% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
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) 60.0%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 62.4%
- 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
College Scorecard 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 – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 223 graduates)
- Law (First Professional Degree, 177 graduates)
- Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degree, 176 graduates)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree, 135 graduates)
- Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree, 127 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 (57 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Communication and Media Studies
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Economics
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Science
- Public Health
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Marketing
- Biology, General
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Dance
- Political Science and Government
- Special Education and Teaching
- Literature
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- International Business
- Information Science/Studies
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Journalism
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Sociology and Anthropology
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, General
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Psychology, General
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- English Language and Literature, General
- Chemistry
- Security Science and Technology
- Mathematics
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
- Area Studies
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
Online Master's Degrees (40 programs)▼
- Special Education and Teaching
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Information Science/Studies
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Computer Science
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Publishing
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Security Science and Technology
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Taxation
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Public Health
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Communication and Media Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Political Science and Government
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Computer Engineering
- International Business
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Public Administration
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Education, Other
- Nutrition Sciences
- Data Analytics
- Business/Commerce, General
Online Doctoral Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Research and Experimental Psychology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (11 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Special Education and Teaching
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Publishing
- Computer Engineering
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (6 programs)▼
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Area Studies
Online First Professional Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Law
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
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 27.3%
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 similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate 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 similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate 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 58.6% ROI. Ranked #1449 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $30,892 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $80,804 median earnings. With 60.0% 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 C+ grade and #1449 ranking, Pace University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $30,892 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 $21,624 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 58.6% ROI and $80,804 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $20,892+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Pace University ranks #1449 of 1947 institutions, with 1081 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
- 60.0% graduation rate sits 2.5 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 75.5% first-year retention is 1.3 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- 58.6% return on investment is 8.7 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $80,804 run about 34% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $30,892 is roughly $10,813 higher than the national median of $20,079.
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.
- 52.6% employment rate within three years sits 15.6 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $30,892 is about $10,813 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 27.3% trails the national share by 7.2 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Pace University is a private nonprofit university based in New York, NY and earns a C+ overall grade. It is currently ranked #1449 nationally 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 60.0% graduate within 150% of normal time (62.4% within eight years). EDsmart calculates the ROI at 58.6%, 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 $30,892 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $69,550.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $38,658 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $23,250 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 27.3% 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 $80,804 four years after graduation. That sits about 34% above the national median.
Roughly 52.6% of graduates are employed three years out.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 58.6%, 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
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
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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 College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Pace University cost?
At Pace University, listed tuition and fees are $53,290 per year, and the average net price after aid is $30,892. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Pace University's ranking?
Pace University ranks #1449 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, 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 60.0% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 62.4%, and first-year retention is 75.5%.
What are Pace University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Pace University report median earnings of $80,804 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Pace University's student population?
Pace University enrolls about 7,665 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 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 Rate26.8%