Arcadia University
Glenside, United States • Founded 1853
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Established in 1853, the Arcadia University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the medium town of Glenside (population range of 2,500-9,999 inhabitants), Pennsylvania.
Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Arcadia University is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Presbyterian religion. Arcadia University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 171-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Arcadia University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
The geographic and contact details below cover where Arcadia University is and how to reach its administrative offices. Campus emergency contact is typically distinct from general inquiries.
Academic Details
Arcadia University's academic structure, enrolment numbers, and accreditation context are gathered below. Together they describe how the institution operates beyond the surface-level overview.
Academic Structures
Arcadia University's internal academic organisation — faculties, schools, and constituent units — is broken down below. Each unit handles a specific subject cluster and houses its own programmes and faculty.
Unit 6 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Global Studies
- College of Health Sciences
- School of Continuing Studies
- School of Education
- School of Global Business
Programs Offered
Search the Arcadia University programme catalogue or scan it by degree level. The catalogue updates periodically; recently added programmes may not yet appear in some search-engine results.
82 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 48 programmes
Showing 10 of 48.
Master's Degree 20 programmes
Showing 10 of 20.
Doctorate 3 programmes
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Postgraduate Certificate 10 programmes
How to apply to Arcadia University
How to apply to Arcadia University — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Arcadia University runs 82 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Before applying to Arcadia University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.
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3
Assemble your application package
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Arcadia University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
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4
Submit your application
Lodge your application through the official website (www.arcadia.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (215) 572 2900. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Arcadia University
Common questions students ask about Arcadia University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
When did Arcadia University open?
Arcadia University traces its founding to 1853 (approximately 173 years ago).
Where is Arcadia University located?
Arcadia University is located in Glenside, United States.
Is Arcadia University a public or private institution?
Arcadia University operates as a private institution.
What is the student enrolment at Arcadia University?
Student enrolment at Arcadia University is around 3,000-3,999.
Does Arcadia University have a religious affiliation?
Arcadia University operates within the Christian-Presbyterian tradition.
How is Arcadia University organised academically?
The institution comprises 6 academic units.
Is Arcadia University accredited?
Yes, Arcadia University is recognised by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
What is Arcadia University's official website?
Arcadia University's official website is www.arcadia.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Top the United States universities often run international branch campuses. Arcadia University's international footprint compared to this benchmark signals global engagement scale.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Network-level rankings exist for some National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) groupings (e.g., U21, Universitas 21). These differ from country rankings and reflect coordinated members' shared performance.
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Presbyterian
Community service and outreach traditions at Christian-Presbyterian universities often shape student life and graduate identity. The peers below typically share comparable service expectations or traditions.
Faculties at nearby universities
Regional language considerations matter when comparing universities near Arcadia University. Bilingual or minority-language regions may shape teaching, signage, and daily life consistently across the cluster.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Looking for Education & Teaching programmes beyond Arcadia University? Other universities in the United States cover the same discipline. Cross-comparing modules, assessment styles, and faculty profiles is the fastest way to find the right fit.
Universities Compared with Arcadia University
Beyond Arcadia University, several other universities operate at a comparable level — by ranking, heritage, or scale. They are worth knowing as you build your shortlist, particularly if you want options at the same competitive tier.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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