Manhattan University Unveils Major New Initiatives to Deliver High Value, High Impact Student Outcomes

Manhattan University, ranked the 52nd Best College in the U.S. by the Wall Street Journal, today announced two new initiatives that build on its nationally recognized ability to develop well-rounded, career-ready graduates though an affordable high-quality education. The ARCH Innovation Exchange will introduce a unique interdisciplinary approach to help students lead in the workplaces of tomorrow, while the Jasper Guarantee provides financial predictability by setting a fixed four-year tuition for all incoming freshmen and transfer students. 

ARCH Innovation Exchange

The ARCH Innovation Exchange brings together foundational elements from the University’s School of Engineering, O’Malley School of Business, and Kakos School of Arts & Sciences to ensure that students have a diverse skillset to thrive in any career they choose. ARCH fosters problem-solving, leadership, and innovation through a dynamic ecosystem of design-based learning, entrepreneurship, and cross-sector partnerships. As industries evolve, ARCH ensures Manhattan students are not only career-ready but future-ready and socially aware, prepared to lead with integrity and serve with purpose. Highlights include: 

• Engineering for All: Providing foundational engineering and technology literacy to all students, while revitalizing the renowned School of Engineering with a multi-year upgrade. 
• IBM SkillsBuild: Offering industry-recognized credentials from IBM in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics, with micro-internship opportunities and a required “Fundamentals of AI” course for all first-year students.
• Industry Innovation Labs: Connecting students with real-world challenges through partnerships with leading corporations, healthcare systems, and civic organizations.
• Entrepreneurship & Venture Launchpad: Supporting student startups with mentorship, funding, and resources.
• Experts-in-Residence: Bringing outside experts from academia, business, and the arts to unlock real-world applications and innovations for students. 

The University is also developing new major programs in Data Science and AI, Neuroscience, Cybersecurity, Financial Engineering, and Sports Management, as well as graduate programs in Data Analytics. 

“For over 170 years, Manhattan University has prepared generations of leaders who can drive meaningful change wherever their careers take them or whatever challenges they face. As industries and occupations transform alongside society, we have taken this bold step to combine the best of what our university has to offer under the ARCH Innovation Exchange so that each Jasper, regardless of his or her major, has the tools to embrace any future opportunity,” said Manhattan University President Dr. Frederick Bonato. “Students from across the country come to Riverdale to receive an exceptional education that jumpstarts successful careers, and ARCH will only improve our ability to develop well rounded graduates who can problem solve through analytical rigor, creativity, and ethical leadership. Rooted in our Lasallian mission of social impact through inclusive and transformational education, ARCH ensures Manhattan students are not only career-ready but future-ready and socially aware, prepared to lead with integrity and serve with purpose.”

The Jasper Guarantee

The Jasper Guarantee addresses one of the most pressing concerns for students and families: affordability and transparency in college pricing. All new undergraduates and transfer students beginning in Fall 2026 will be able to lock in a single tuition rate for eight consecutive semesters, which will also be reflective of the University’s generous aid and merit packages.  

“Deciding on a college education is one of the most financially significant and far-reaching decisions that a family can make, and rarely does that decision come with any certainties. This is why alongside the exciting new offerings from the ARCH Innovation Exchange, we are doubling down on our commitment to affordability and transparent value through our Jasper Guarantee tuition initiative,” said Stephen J. Squeri, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “We won’t increase tuition on students during their four years at Manhattan University, allowing them to invest with confidence in an educational experience that delivers strong, measurable returns. We will continue to lead the changes taking place across higher education so that when we are making an impact on our students, they are ready to make an impact on the world.” 

Return on Investment

In addition to the Wall Street Journal ranking, Manhattan University’s recent accolades include: 

• Best 390 Colleges (The Princeton Review 2025)
• Top 10% of U.S. Colleges Overall and #20 in Salary Impact Nationwide (Wall Street Journal, 2025)
• Top 2% in PayScale’s National Salary Rankings with an average mid-career salary of $152,400
• Top 25 Regional Universities North and Top 25 Best Colleges for Veterans (U.S. News & World Report, 2025)

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About Manhattan University
Founded in 1853, Manhattan University is an independent Lasallian Catholic institution located in Riverdale, NY that embraces students of all faiths, cultures, and traditions. The mission of the University is to provide a dynamic student-centered educational experience that prepares graduates for lives of personal development, professional success, civic engagement, and service to their fellow human beings. Manhattan University offers programs that integrate a broad liberal arts education coupled with a concentration in specific disciplines in the arts and sciences with professional preparation in business and engineering, ensuring graduates will excel in their chosen fields. The University consists of the Kakos School of Arts & Sciences, the O’Malley School of Business, and the School of Engineering. For further information, please visit www.manhattan.edu.