Mercy College vs Pace University

Mercy College and Pace University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in New York, offer distinct educational experiences. Mercy College, with an acceptance rate of 75%, welcomes a diverse student body, with 53% female and 47% male students. Pace University, with a slightly lower acceptance rate of 68%, boasts a more balanced gender ratio, with 51% female and 49% male students. While Mercy College excels in nursing, with 20% of its undergraduates pursuing this major, Pace University shines in business, with 25% of its undergraduates opting for this field of study. Both institutions boast impressive graduation rates, with Mercy College achieving a 6-year graduation rate of 58% and Pace University reaching a 6-year graduation rate of 62%. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to delve deeper into the unique offerings of each university and make an informed decision that aligns with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Mercy College logo

Mercy College

Pace University logo

Pace University

Overview

Location Dobbs Ferry, New York New York, New York
Campus setting Suburb: Large City: Large
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 71.0% 75.0%
Common app member Yes No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 85.8% 87.6%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $40

Graduate: $40
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $70
SAT range 910 - 1190 1120 - 1310
ACT range 23 - 27 23 - 28
Students submitting SAT score 7.0% 20.0%
Students submitting ACT score 1.0% 5.0%
Total number of applicants 6,471 24,795
Total number of admissions given out 5,551 21,726
Admitted students who chose to enroll 851 2,203
Yield rate 15.3% 10.1%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $35,044 $73,810
Average net price $15,027 $30,632
Tuition $19,920 $46,978
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $10,100

Meal plan: $4,550
$19,682
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

96.0%
Average amount $14,418
98.0%
Average amount $32,068
Students receiving federal student loan 51.0%
Average amount $5,107
55.0%
Average amount $5,670
Students taking out private loans 5.0%
Average amount $14,617
8.0%
Average amount $23,331

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 6,505
Men 30.2% Women 69.8%
8,260
Men 34.3% Women 65.7%
Graduate students 2,267
Men 21.2% Women 78.8%
5,219
Men 34.9% Women 65.1%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Moderate
Moderate
Out-of-state students 6.2% N/A
International students 1.9% 12.4%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Large City: Large
Dormitory capacity 800 3,558
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from New York Connecticut New Jersey Maryland Mississippi N/A

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Communication and Journalism
  • Visual & Performing Arts
Students to faculty ratio 15:1 15:1
Institutional accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Outcome

Graduation rate 49.6% 59.1%
Dropout rate 18.8% 13.5%
Transferred out 29.7% 26.8%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $119,798
  • Year 2: $113,850
  • Year 3: $128,945
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $120,372
  • Year 2: $124,271
  • Year 3: $121,765
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $106,401
  • Year 2: $101,964
  • Year 3: $111,041
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $115,215
  • Year 2: $97,959
  • Year 3: $108,835
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,128
  • Year 2: $75,706
  • Year 3: $81,420
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,969
  • Year 2: $78,971
  • Year 3: $80,623
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,576
  • Year 2: $63,005
  • Year 3: $77,741
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,789
  • Year 2: $73,446
  • Year 3: $74,123
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,719
  • Year 2: $64,196
  • Year 3: $73,275
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,699
  • Year 2: $64,121
  • Year 3: $73,256
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $124,271
  • Year 3: $152,201
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $117,088
  • Year 2: $113,139
  • Year 3: $118,654
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $118,294
  • Year 2: $107,614
  • Year 3: $117,301
Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,760
  • Year 2: $88,639
  • Year 3: $99,483
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,622
  • Year 2: $90,727
  • Year 3: $95,275
Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $76,358
  • Year 2: $74,200
  • Year 3: $87,407
Taxation (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $74,698
  • Year 2: $77,536
  • Year 3: $86,310
Computer Software and Media Applications (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,512
  • Year 2: $74,576
  • Year 3: $86,085
Information Science/Studies (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,963
  • Year 2: $72,828
  • Year 3: $82,231
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,452
  • Year 2: $67,593
  • Year 3: $79,100

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Mercy College and Pace University?

    Mercy College and Pace University, while both located in the New York metropolitan area, offer distinct experiences. Pace University, particularly its New York City campus, provides a more urban environment and a stronger focus on professional programs, especially in business, law, and performing arts. Mercy College, with its main campus in Dobbs Ferry, offers a more suburban setting and a broader range of undergraduate programs, with a reputation for accessibility and student support. Pace tends to be more selective in its admissions process and generally has a higher tuition cost than Mercy.

  • Which school is better known for its business programs?

    Pace University's Lubin School of Business is highly regarded and well-established, particularly in the New York City business community. While Mercy College also offers business programs, Pace generally has a stronger reputation and more extensive networking opportunities in the business field.

  • How do the campus environments compare?

    Pace University offers a vibrant urban campus in downtown Manhattan, providing students with direct access to internships, cultural attractions, and a fast-paced city life. Mercy College's main campus in Dobbs Ferry offers a more traditional suburban college experience with green spaces and a quieter atmosphere. Mercy also has smaller campuses in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Yorktown Heights, offering a blend of accessibility and convenience.

  • What are the tuition costs like at Mercy College versus Pace University?

    Generally, Mercy College has a lower tuition cost compared to Pace University. However, tuition rates can vary depending on the specific program, residency status, and any scholarships or financial aid received. It's best to check the official websites of both institutions for the most up-to-date tuition information and to explore available financial aid options.

  • Which school is better for students interested in performing arts?

    Pace University's School of Performing Arts is well-known and offers a variety of programs in acting, musical theater, and dance. While Mercy College may offer some performing arts courses, Pace is generally considered the stronger choice for students specifically seeking a comprehensive performing arts education.

  • How do the student populations differ?

    Pace University generally has a larger student population than Mercy College. Mercy College tends to attract a more diverse student body, including a significant number of first-generation college students and students seeking a more supportive academic environment. Pace's student body is also diverse, but its urban location attracts students from across the country and around the world.

  • What kind of student support services are available at each school?

    Both Mercy College and Pace University offer a range of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and disability services. Mercy College is particularly known for its personalized advising and support programs designed to help students succeed academically. Pace also offers comprehensive support services, with a focus on career development and internship placement, leveraging its location in New York City.

  • Which school is easier to get into?

    Mercy College generally has a higher acceptance rate than Pace University, making it typically easier to get into. Pace University is more selective in its admissions process, considering factors such as GPA, standardized test scores (if required), and extracurricular activities.

  • Does location play a significant role in choosing between the two?

    Yes, location is a crucial factor. Pace University's New York City campus offers unparalleled access to internships, cultural experiences, and a vibrant urban lifestyle. Mercy College's Dobbs Ferry campus provides a more traditional suburban college experience, which may be preferable for students seeking a quieter and more relaxed environment. Consider which type of environment best suits your personality and academic goals.

  • What are the strengths of Mercy College?

    Mercy College excels in providing accessible and supportive education, particularly for first-generation college students and those seeking personalized attention. Its strengths include a diverse student body, a range of undergraduate programs, flexible learning options (including online courses), and a commitment to career preparation. The lower tuition cost also makes it an attractive option for students seeking an affordable education.

  • What are the strengths of Pace University?

    Pace University's strengths lie in its strong professional programs, particularly in business, law, and performing arts, and its prime location in New York City. The university offers extensive internship opportunities, a diverse student body, and a focus on career development. Its Lubin School of Business is highly regarded, and its performing arts programs are well-established.

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