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Susquehanna University

Selinsgrove, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Achievement, Leadership, Service

1858
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
2,120
Total Students
2,239
Undergrad
$243M
Endowment
(2025)
$57K
Tuition (In-State)
$57K
Tuition (Out-State)
$27K
Avg Net Price
79%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
73%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Susquehanna University

Experience a vibrant liberal arts journey at Susquehanna, shaped by a rich history of service.

Discover Susquehanna University, a distinguished private liberal arts college with a rich heritage dedicated to fostering "Achievement, Leadership, Service." Established in 1858, Susquehanna began with a unique dual foundation: the Missionary Institute, focused on preparing men for ministry, and the Susquehanna Female College. This foundational commitment to broad education laid the groundwork for the inclusive and expansive academic environment found today.

The university's journey truly began on September 1, 1858, under the leadership of its first president, Benjamin Kurtz. Initially structured with theology and classical departments, Susquehanna quickly evolved. A significant milestone occurred in 1873 when the institution became co-educational, merging the visions of its founding colleges. This progressive step further solidified its commitment to providing comprehensive education for all, culminating in its official recognition as Susquehanna University in 1895 as it expanded its offerings.

The dawn of the 20th century marked a period of dynamic growth and transformation. Susquehanna began offering sought-after bachelor's degrees, and by the 1920s, the campus experienced a remarkable surge in student enrollment. This era saw substantial investment in student accommodations, a notable expansion of the campus footprint, and a significant enhancement of academic departments, all contributing to a vibrant and expanding learning community. Today, with an endowment of $0.2 billion, Susquehanna continues its legacy of academic excellence and service, preparing students for impactful lives.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1858 as the Missionary Institute of the Evangelical Lutheran Church and Susquehanna Female College.
  • Became a co-educational institution in 1873.
  • Officially renamed Susquehanna University in 1895.
  • Offers bachelor's degrees, introduced in the early 20th century.
  • Features an endowment of $0.2 billion.
  • Embraces the motto: "Achievement, Leadership, Service."
  • Experienced significant campus and academic expansion in the 1920s following a student enrollment surge.

Timeline

1858
Founded as the Missionary Institute of the Evangelical Lutheran Church and Susquehanna Female College.
1873
Became co-educational after Susquehanna Female College disbanded.
1895
Officially became known as Susquehanna University.
1903
Board approved the university colors: orange and maroon.
1920
Student enrollment skyrocketed, accommodations refurbished, campus expanded, and academic offerings enhanced during the 1920s.
🏛️
168 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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