Dickinson College vs Messiah University

Carlisle, PA — Mechanicsburg, PA

Metric
Dickinson College
Carlisle, PA
Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA
Location Carlisle, PA Mechanicsburg, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 2,273 2,259
Acceptance Rate 42.1% 79.0%
SAT Average 1,391 1,236
In-State Tuition $65,650 $42,240
Out-of-State Tuition $65,650 $42,240
Avg Net Price $37,607 $26,502
Median Debt at Graduation $19,000 $25,621
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.6% 76.8%
Retention Rate 92.0% 88.6%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $57,110 $50,192
Median Earnings (10 yr) $70,204 $54,064
Loan Repayment Rate 57500.0% 121800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Dickinson College
Carlisle, PA
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Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Dickinson College and Messiah University compare?
Dickinson College (Carlisle, PA) has an acceptance rate of 42.1%, in-state tuition of $65,650, and median 10-year earnings of $70,204. Messiah University (Mechanicsburg, PA) has an acceptance rate of 79.0%, in-state tuition of $42,240, and median 10-year earnings of $54,064.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Dickinson College or Messiah University?
Dickinson College graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $70,204 vs $54,064. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Dickinson College or Messiah University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Messiah University is the more affordable option at $26,502 per year versus $37,607.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Dickinson College has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 81.6% vs 76.8%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025