Your Gateway to Upward Mobility
At Arcadia University, your journey toward career success and upward mobility is at the heart of everything we do. You will receive the resources and support to help you achieve meaningful success. Recognized as a 2025 “Top Performer in Social Mobility” by U.S. News & World Report, Arcadia offers a distinctive approach to higher education that prioritizes equity and empowers you to become a future leader.
Arcadia University ranks highly among its peers:
*U.S. News & World Report
**Institute of International Education’s Open Doors Report
Your Opportunity to Break Barriers
Being a first-generation college student is a transformative milestone that extends far beyond earning a degree—it sets the foundation for lasting upward social mobility. This journey can unlock opportunities such as enhanced career prospects, financial stability, access to quality healthcare, affordable insurance, and improved housing options. At Arcadia University, we are dedicated to supporting you through every step of this life-changing experience. As you pave the way for yourself, you also create a ripple effect, opening doors for your family and future generations to achieve their goals and thrive.
My parents did not finish high school so being able to strive and obtain better is not only a blessing but a gift to them. A gift to thank them for every sacrifice they made for me.
Your Commitment to Lasting Success
Arcadia is committed to fostering equity and inclusion, creating accessible pathways from college to career to ensure your success. By narrowing retention gaps among Pell-eligible, BIPOC, and first-generation students, and achieving historic retention rates, Arcadia empowers all students to thrive. With affordable, high-impact opportunities like study abroad, honors courses, and applied learning, you’ll gain the skills and connections needed to drive career growth and long-term economic progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is social mobility?
Social mobility is about advancing in life through opportunities like education, better jobs, and increased income. If you're the first in your family to attend college, you're opening doors to resources and experiences that can elevate your family's position in society. It's like climbing a ladder, where each step brings you closer to achieving your dreams and breaking barriers.
Does a college education provide social mobility?
Yes! A college education like Arcadia’s, which combines engaging academics, immersive internships, and personalized mentoring, equips you with the skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce. With scholarships, financial aid, and community-centered learning, Arcadia offers an accessible, high-value education that provides you with the tools to secure lifelong career potential and financial stability.
How does Arcadia prepare me for the real world?
Arcadia offers extensive networking opportunities to help you advance your career. The Career Launchpad platform connects you with internships and job prospects, while global experiences through Arcadia Abroad help you build professional networks around the world. The program offers over 130 study abroad programs across 15 countries.
Additionally, Arcadia’s close proximity to Philadelphia provides you with access to a thriving job market, enhancing your career and internship opportunities.
How do I start the application process?
Starting your college application is an exciting milestone, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. From sharing your story through a personal statement to exploring financial aid options, our admissions team makes the process simple—especially for first-generation students.
Simply fill out the form at the bottom of the page to get started!
