Saint Anselm College

The provided ROI score of -63 suggests that, on average, graduates may struggle to recoup their educational costs through increased earnings within a typical timeframe, making the financial investment questionable.

While specific academic program data is not provided, the high graduation rate of 81.5% suggests that students who enroll are generally successful in completing their degrees.

The out-of-state and in-state tuition is $48,920, while median 10-year earnings are $73,371. This gap, combined with median debt of $27,000, results in a negative ROI score, indicating earnings may not adequately offset costs and debt.

Students who value a close-knit community and are likely to benefit from a supportive environment that leads to high graduation rates may find Saint Anselm College suitable. However, those prioritizing a strong financial return on their education should carefully consider the ROI data.

The cost is the same for in-state and out-of-state students at $48,920. Given the negative ROI score and median debt, the value proposition for any student, including out-of-state, warrants careful consideration of the financial outcomes.

Saint Anselm College has an acceptance rate of approximately 78.0%, classifying it as a moderately selective institution. While not as highly competitive as some elite liberal arts colleges, admission still requires a solid academic record. Successful applicants typically present strong high school GPAs, often in the B+ to A- range, and competitive standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place). Extracurricular involvement, strong letters of recommendation, and a well-crafted admissions essay also play a significant role in the holistic review process. To improve your chances, focus on challenging coursework, demonstrate leadership and commitment in your extracurriculars, and articulate your passion for Saint Anselm's specific academic programs and community values in your application essays. Early Action or Early Decision applications can sometimes provide a slight advantage. It's crucial to meet all application deadlines and submit a complete, polished application.

Evaluating the financial worth of Saint Anselm College requires a nuanced look at its cost versus potential return. With an annual tuition of $48,920 and median 10-year earnings of $73,371, the initial financial picture suggests a longer payback period for the investment. The median debt of $27,000 adds to this consideration. However, the college's strong graduation rate (81.5%) and its reputation for producing well-prepared graduates, particularly in high-demand fields like nursing and business, can lead to stable and potentially lucrative careers. Graduates often find success in the robust New England job market, especially in healthcare and finance. If a student leverages the college's career services and alumni network effectively to secure a well-compensated position soon after graduation, the investment can be justified. For students seeking a strong liberal arts education with a clear path to regional employment, it can be a worthwhile choice, but it's not a guaranteed financial windfall. Careful major selection and proactive career planning are essential to maximize the return on investment.

Saint Anselm College excels in several key areas, making certain majors particularly strong choices for prospective students. The Nursing program is consistently highly regarded, benefiting from strong clinical partnerships with major New Hampshire healthcare systems like Elliot Health System and Catholic Medical Center, leading to excellent job placement rates in a high-demand field. Business majors, including Accounting and Marketing, are also popular and well-supported, with graduates often finding opportunities in the financial services sector in nearby Boston. The rapidly growing field of Health Sciences provides a solid foundation for further graduate study or entry-level positions in various healthcare roles. For those interested in public service, Political Science and Sociology programs often lead to careers in government, non-profits, and community organizations. The college's liberal arts foundation also supports strong programs in English and History, which can be excellent springboards for law school or careers in communications and education. Ultimately, the 'best' major depends on individual interests and career aspirations, but these programs consistently demonstrate strong outcomes.

Student life at Saint Anselm College is characterized by a close-knit, community-oriented campus culture, deeply influenced by its Benedictine Catholic tradition. The college fosters a supportive environment where students are encouraged to engage academically, socially, and spiritually. Campus activities are diverse, ranging from over 60 student clubs and organizations, including academic societies, cultural groups, and volunteer initiatives, to a vibrant intramural sports program. The Anselmian Outing Club is popular for exploring the surrounding New England landscape. Residential life is a significant aspect, with most students living on campus throughout their undergraduate years, contributing to a strong sense of community. The college also emphasizes service and social justice, with numerous opportunities for volunteering both locally and through alternative break programs. While the campus offers a traditional college experience, its location in Manchester provides access to off-campus entertainment, dining, and cultural events. The overall atmosphere is one of engaged learning, community involvement, and personal growth within a structured, values-driven environment.

Saint Anselm College is committed to making its education accessible through a range of financial aid options. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. The college offers both merit-based scholarships, awarded for academic achievement and talent, and need-based grants, determined by a family's financial circumstances. Institutional aid, including scholarships and grants, often forms the largest part of the aid package. Federal aid programs, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, are also available to eligible students. Additionally, New Hampshire residents may qualify for state-specific grants. While the sticker price is substantial ($48,920), the average financial aid package can significantly reduce the net cost for many students. It's crucial for prospective students to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile (if required) by the specified deadlines to be considered for all available aid. The financial aid office provides resources and counseling to help families navigate the application process and understand their aid options.

Graduates from Saint Anselm College can expect a median salary in the range of $70,000-$80,000 approximately ten years after graduation, with the reported median being $73,371. However, actual salaries vary significantly based on major, industry, and geographic location. For instance, graduates from the highly-regarded Nursing program often secure positions in major New Hampshire and Massachusetts hospitals, with starting salaries potentially ranging from $60,000 to $75,000, increasing substantially with experience and specialization. Alumni in Business fields, particularly those entering finance or accounting roles in the competitive Boston market, might see starting salaries in the $55,000-$70,000 range, with strong potential for growth. Graduates pursuing careers in education or non-profit sectors may have lower starting salaries, perhaps in the $45,000-$55,000 range. Those who pursue graduate degrees (e.g., law, medicine) will have different earning trajectories. The strong alumni network and career services can help graduates secure positions that align with higher earning potentials within the New England region.

Saint Anselm College provides a traditional residential experience, with most undergraduate students living on campus for at least three years. The college offers a variety of housing options designed to foster community and support student life. First-year students are typically housed in traditional residence halls, such as Davison Hall, Saint Andre Hall, and Saint Benedict Hall, which offer double-occupancy rooms and shared common bathrooms. These halls are designed to help freshmen acclimate to college life and build connections. As students progress, they can move into upper-class housing, which includes suite-style living, apartment-style residences (like Alumni Hall), and single rooms, offering more independence and privacy. Many dorms feature common lounges, study areas, and kitchens. The college emphasizes maintaining a safe and supportive living environment, with Resident Directors (RDs) and Resident Assistants (RAs) available in each hall to provide guidance and support. The campus is generally considered safe and walkable, with most housing located conveniently close to academic buildings and campus amenities.

Saint Anselm College offers undergraduate research opportunities, particularly within its science and health science departments, allowing students to engage in meaningful scholarly work. While it may not have the extensive graduate-level research infrastructure of a large research university, it provides dedicated avenues for undergraduates to participate. Faculty members often involve students in their research projects, offering hands-on experience in areas like biology, chemistry, and psychology. The college supports student research through programs like the Summer Research Program, where students can work closely with faculty mentors on specific projects, often culminating in presentations or publications. The New Hampshire Institute of Politics (NHIOP) also provides unique research opportunities related to political science and public affairs. While the focus is primarily on undergraduate teaching, these research opportunities are valuable for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers that require research skills, providing a solid foundation and direct mentorship.

Saint Anselm College competes within the landscape of small to mid-sized private liberal arts colleges in New England. Its peers often include institutions like Stonehill College, Providence College, and Holy Cross College. Compared to these schools, Saint Anselm often stands out for its particularly strong nursing and health sciences programs, which may be more robust than at some competitors. Its location in Manchester offers a slightly different regional advantage than schools situated further south, providing good access to both local NH opportunities and the broader Boston market. However, Saint Anselm's sticker price is comparable to its peers, and its median alumni earnings are generally in the same tier, suggesting a similar return on investment. Some competitors might boast slightly higher national rankings or more extensive internship networks in specific fields like finance in Boston. Saint Anselm's distinct Benedictine Catholic identity also shapes its campus culture, which can be a draw for some students and a differentiating factor compared to other religiously affiliated or secular institutions in the region.

Employers generally hold a positive view of graduates from Saint Anselm College, particularly within the New England region. The college is recognized for producing well-rounded individuals with strong critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, hallmarks of a solid liberal arts education. Its emphasis on community, ethics, and service also contributes to a positive perception of graduates' character and work ethic. Employers in key sectors like healthcare (e.g., Elliot Health System, Catholic Medical Center) and finance (e.g., Fidelity Investments, State Street in Boston) often actively recruit Anselm alumni due to the quality of programs like Nursing and Business. The strong alumni network plays a crucial role, with graduates often recommending their alma mater to hiring managers. While Saint Anselm may not have the widespread national name recognition of larger universities, its reputation for producing capable, dedicated professionals makes its graduates valuable assets to employers seeking reliable and well-prepared individuals for their organizations.