Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Messiah University vs University of the Arts

Mechanicsburg, PA · Philadelphia, PA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Messiah UniversityUniversity of the Arts
Acceptance Rate78.5%78.2%
In-State Tuition$40,640$54,290
Out-of-State Tuition$40,640$54,290
Average Net Price$18,795$26,878
Graduation Rate78.0%69.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Messiah University accepts 78.5% of applicants; University of the Arts accepts 78.2%. Messiah University's tuition is $40,640. University of the Arts's is $54,290. Messiah University is cheaper. Messiah University graduates 78% of students in 6 years. University of the Arts graduates 69%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Messiah University profileUniversity of the Arts profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Messiah University or University of the Arts?

University of the Arts. It accepts 78.2% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Messiah University or University of the Arts more affordable?

Messiah University has lower published tuition: $40,640 versus $54,290. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Messiah University: 78% of students finish in 6 years. University of the Arts is at 69%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Messiah University vs University of the Arts: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax