Maria College of Albany

Maria College stakes its reputation on healthcare education, with programs spanning nursing (AAS and RN-to-BS), occupational therapy assistance, and a new Bachelor's in Public Health launched in 2024. The curriculum balances technical training with liberal arts—evident in its Psychology and Liberal Arts bachelor's programs. Small class sizes dominate, with faculty often drawn from local healthcare networks.

Signature Programs:

• Nursing (AAS and RN-to-BS) with 95% first-time NCLEX-PN pass rate in 2025
• Occupational Therapy Assistant (AAS)
• New B.S. in Public Health (launched 2024)
• Healthcare Management (Bachelor's)

Flexible scheduling caters to working students, including evening/weekend options. The college emphasizes 'education through compassion,' a legacyLegacyAn applicant whose parent (or sometimes other close relative) attended the college. Some schools give a small edge to legacy applicants. of its Sisters of Mercy founders.

With just 703 undergraduates (fall 2023) and an 8.5% male population, Maria fosters an intimate, predominantly female environment. Students describe a 'welcoming community' (Niche) where faculty know students by name. The college leans heavily into healthcare culture—clinical scrubs are common attire—but balances this with spiritual growth opportunities reflecting its Mercy heritage.

Key Aspects:

• Minimal Greek life or athletics (U.S. News)
• Strong commuter population; 74% part-time enrollment (Community College Review)
• Instagram shows active orientation programming and campus events
• Student Affairs focuses on 'academic, personal & spiritual growth' (college site)

Maria's strength lies in field-specific employment: 85% of graduates work in their discipline or pursue advanced degrees within six months. Nursing outcomes shine with near-perfect NCLEX pass rates, though overall graduation rates lag at 25% for four-year and 43% for six-year completion (U.S. News/Research.com). Median alumni earnings six years post-graduation hit $53,357—respectable for a healthcare-focused institution.

Key Data:

• 85% employed in-field or in grad school (college data)
• 95% LPN NCLEX-PN first-time pass rate (2025)
• 25% 4-year graduation rate (U.S. News)
• $53,357 median salary at 6 years (U.S. News)

Maria positions itself as an affordable private option, with 76% of students receiving grant aid averaging $10,405 (College Raptor). The net priceNet priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator suggests significant aid packages, though exact tuition figures aren't publicly highlighted. Financial aid leans heavily on federal programs, with FAFSA completion strongly encouraged.

Financial Snapshot:

• 76% receive grant aid (College Raptor)
• Average grant: $10,405 (College Raptor)
• Net price calculator available (college site)
• Aid packages typically combine grants, loans, and work-study

Maria College carves a distinct niche as a healthcare educator with Mercy values. Its 95% NCLEX pass rate for nursing students outperforms many larger institutions, while the new Public Health degree taps into post-pandemic demand. The college's small size—703 undergraduates—allows for clinical rotations at Albany Med and other regional hospitals that bigger programs fight to access. For working adults in the Capital Region seeking healthcare credentials without SUNY's bureaucracy, Maria offers a compelling blend of flexibility, industry connections, and mission-driven focus.