Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia
The Vibe Check
Saint Joseph's University offers a tight-knit, Jesuit-inspired community feel where students are encouraged to be 'men and women for and with others.' The campus, centered around the iconic chapel and Hawk Hill location, feels both historic and spirited, with a strong emphasis on service and ethical leadership. It’s a place where you’ll find a blend of academic rigor and genuine community support.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
SJU is renowned for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Biology, supported by the AACSB-accredited Haub School of Business. The university emphasizes experiential learning through internships, co-ops, and a robust study abroad program, with a student-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention. Research opportunities are accessible even to undergraduates, particularly in the sciences and social sciences.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Philadelphia
Students take advantage of Philadelphia's vibrant culture, exploring attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Reading Terminal Market, and the historic Liberty Bell. The city offers endless options for dining, concerts, and sports, with easy access via public transit. On campus, students enjoy Division I athletics, club sports, and events centered around the campus ministry and student activities.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($86,881):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in the safe and residential Mount Airy neighborhood, with its own campus safety department and 24/7 patrols. While the surrounding city of Philadelphia requires standard urban awareness, the campus itself is considered very secure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong, well-regarded business and health professions programs with excellent accreditation.
- ✓ High retention (87.9%) and graduation (81%) rates indicate strong student satisfaction and support.
- ✓ Prime location in Philadelphia offers vast internship and cultural opportunities in a major urban center.
- ✓ A tight-knit, service-oriented community fosters meaningful relationships and personal growth.
Cons
- ✗ High tuition cost, though aid reduces the net price, it remains a significant financial commitment.
- ✗ The 86% acceptance rate is higher than many comparable private universities, which may affect perceived selectivity.
- ✗ Campus is not in the city center, requiring a commute to access downtown Philadelphia's main attractions.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Saint Joseph's University is known for its strong business school (the Haub School of Business), its excellent programs in health professions and biology, and its Jesuit identity that emphasizes ethical leadership and service. The university is also recognized for its vibrant campus spirit, centered around its mascot, the Hawk, and its commitment to experiential learning through internships and study abroad programs.
No, Saint Joseph's University is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 86.39%. However, admitted students typically present a strong academic record, with an average SAT score around 1256. The university uses a holistic review process, so a compelling personal essay and evidence of extracurricular involvement can strengthen an application.
Campus life at SJU is defined by a strong sense of community and school spirit. Students are actively involved in over 100 clubs, Division I athletics, and campus ministry programs. The university's Jesuit values are woven into daily life, with a focus on service, social justice, and forming close relationships with peers and faculty.
For many students, the investment at SJU is worthwhile due to its strong graduation rate (81%) and solid post-graduation earnings, with a median 10-year salary of $86,881. The value is particularly high for students in top-ranked programs like business and health professions, who benefit from robust career services and a powerful alumni network. Prospective students should carefully consider financial aid packages to determine their personal net price.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private Non-profit
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 5,344
- In-State Tuition $51,340
- Zip Code 19131
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price of over $51,000, SJU is a significant investment, but the average net price of $35,487 shows that financial aid and scholarships can substantially reduce costs. The strong 10-year median earnings of $86,881 indicate a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates entering the business and healthcare fields. The high graduation rate of 81% also suggests that students are well-supported to complete their degrees on time.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.