
One University Avenue Mechanicsburg, PA, 17055, United States, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, USA


Messiah University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is a recognized regional accrediting agency responsible for evaluating degree-granting institutions in the Mid-Atlantic region. This accreditation ensures that the university meets rigorous standards for quality in areas such as curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support services, and institutional governance.
In addition to the overall institutional accreditation, several specific programs at Messiah University hold specialized accreditations. These accreditations demonstrate that certain departments or professional programs adhere to standards established by relevant professional bodies, often critical for licensure or certification in those fields.
Prospective students should consider these accreditations as they evaluate the academic credibility and potential career pathways connected to their chosen programs. Institutional accreditation additionally impacts the transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the recognition of degrees by employers and graduate schools.
Messiah University requires applicants to have completed a secondary school program with a minimum GPA and submission of their secondary school records. A General Educational Development (GED) certificate is also accepted as an alternative to a high school diploma. Prospective students must demonstrate English proficiency through a required TOEFL score, while additional standardized tests are recommended but not mandatory. The university does not offer open admission, meaning applicants must meet these academic criteria to be considered for enrollment. Dual credit options are not available, but the institution does grant credit for college-level work and Advanced Placement (AP) exams. Computer ownership is not mandatory for admission, but leasing options are offered.
Messiah University requires prospective undergraduate students to submit a nonrefundable application fee as part of their admission process. This fee helps the university cover administrative costs associated with processing applications.
Fee waivers are available for certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria. These waivers aim to reduce financial barriers and make the application process more accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds. Prospective students are encouraged to inquire directly with the admissions office to determine eligibility and the procedure for obtaining a fee waiver.
Messiah University hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students direct access to military officer training programs. Additionally, it offers opportunities through an ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution, allowing students to participate in ROTC training in partnership with another nearby college or university.
Messiah University welcomes transfer students for the fall and spring semesters, offering flexibility for those seeking to continue their education without interruption. Prospective transfers should note that the admission process is moderately difficult, indicating a level of selectivity in evaluating applicants' previous academic records.
The university accepts transfer credits, accommodating students who have completed coursework elsewhere. Specifically, it recognizes general CLEP exams and DANTES credits, which can facilitate smoother credit transfers for qualifying individuals.
Messiah University offers a range of study abroad programs designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experiences. These programs vary in length and structure, including short-term faculty-led trips, semester-long exchanges, and year-long immersive opportunities. Students can choose from diverse locations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America, depending on their academic interests and language proficiency.
The university emphasizes experiential learning by integrating cultural immersion and community engagement into its study abroad options. Many programs are tailored to specific disciplines such as international business, history, environmental studies, and language studies, allowing students to apply their coursework in real-world contexts abroad.
Additionally, Messiah University encourages students to participate in summer or January-term programs, which typically last a few weeks, providing a more flexible option for those unable to commit to longer terms. These shorter programs often focus on specific themes or projects, offering concentrated experiences without disrupting a full semester's course load.
Median composite SAT score
1220Median composite ACT score
27Percent of students submitting ACT scores
5.85%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
51.77%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring