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Pace University

New York, NY | Private Nonprofit | University

Pace University has an acceptance rate of 75.9%, average net price of $30,892, and a national rank of #1368 (Grade C+), with a 60.0% six-year graduation rate, and median earnings of $52,767 six years after enrollment. 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. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 38.2%, roughly 11.7 points below typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

C+
Ranking
#1368 of 6,119
How We Rank Schools
At a Glance
Ranking
#1368 of 6,119 (Top 22.4%)
Tuition
Not reported
Net Price
$30,892
Acceptance Rate
75.9%
Transfer Rate
26.8%
Student Population
Not reported
Student-Faculty
14:1
Graduation Rate
60.0%
Retention Rate
Not reported
6-Yr Earnings
$52,767
ROI
38.2%

Who is Pace University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#1368 of 6,119
Top 22.4% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
20.8 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
1.04 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B
#732 of 6,119
Affordability
C
#1,494 of 6,119
Support
B
#875 of 6,119
Career Outcomes
C+
#1,353 of 6,119

Pace University graduates 60.0% of students within six years and does not report first-year retention. Affordability earns a C compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$30,892 average net price after aid.
What's the graduation rate?
Likely
60.0% finish within six years. 46.1% complete in four years.
What are job outcomes?
Somewhat likely
52.6% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings six years after entry are $52,767. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

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

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$278,200
$69,550 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$137,956
$30,892 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 46.1% | 6-Year Rate: 60.0%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 46.1% and six-year completion is 60.0%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$69,550
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$30,892
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 Not reported
Books and Supplies Not reported
On-Campus Room and Board Not reported
On-Campus Other Expenses Not reported
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

Pell Grant
0.0%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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: Only 0.0% of Pace University students receive Pell Grants — far below the national average, underscoring equity challenges.

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
38.2%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • 6-Year Median Earnings $52,767
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $52,767
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $17,750
  • 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.

Graduates earn a median of $52,767 six years after enrollment — roughly 21% above the national median.
Payback Period
2.61 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

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: While Pace University graduates earn $52,767 median, the 38.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
75.9%
Lightly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 600-680
  • SAT Math 580-660
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 24-29
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 0
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Retention Rate Not reported
  • Graduation Rate 60.0%
  • 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 0
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Male Students 0.0%
  • Female Students 0.0%
  • Caucasian 44.4%
  • Asian 7.5%
  • Hispanic 24.5%
  • Black 11.9%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 0.0%

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?

Pell Grant Recipients
55.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
61.0%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
5.4 pts
good equity

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.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Pace University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
55.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
61.0%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
5.4 pts
good equity

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 38.2% ROI. Ranked #1368 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 $52,767 median earnings. With 60.0% graduating within six years 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 #1368 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 38.2% ROI and $52,767 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 #1368 of 6119 institutions, with 3083 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% six-year 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%.
  • 38.2% return on investment is 11.7 points below the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $52,767 run about 21% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
  • Average net price of $30,892 is roughly $13,466 higher than the national median of $17,426.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 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.
Red Flags
  • Average net price of $30,892 is about $13,466 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

Pace University is a private nonprofit university based in New York, NY and earns a C+ overall grade. It is currently ranked #1368 nationally Category results include Completion (B), Support (B), Career Outcomes (C+), 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.

The six-year graduation rate hovers around 60.0%. EDsmart calculates the ROI at 38.2%, 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 $17,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

Pell Grant participation data is not reported.

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 $52,767 six years after entry. That sits about 21% above the national median.

Roughly 52.6% of graduates are employed three years out.

EDsmart lists the ROI at 38.2%, 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.

EDsmart Verdict
1.04 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

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Get your personalized cost estimate
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See ROI for your specific field of study
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Pratt Institute-Main
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Hartwick College
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C+ #1374 of 6,119
The College of Westchester
White Plains, NY
C+ #1376 of 6,119
Bard College
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C+ #1359 of 6,119

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, 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 #1368 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 six-year graduation rate is 60.0%.

What are Pace University's job outcomes?

Graduates of Pace University report median earnings of $52,767 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
  • Endowment$232.4M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate26.8%

Data Source & Methodology