Aquinas College, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a private Catholic liberal arts institution known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. Founded in 1886, the college emphasizes a values-based education rooted in the Dominican tradition, with a mission to foster a community that encourages intellectual, spiritual, and social development. The college’s motto, "Veritas, Caritas, and Communitas" (Truth, Charity, and Community), reflects its dedication to nurturing students' moral and ethical character alongside their academic pursuits. Aquinas offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in the liberal arts, sciences, and business disciplines.

The campus of Aquinas College is not only picturesque but also equipped with modern facilities that enhance the student experience. The college features state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational facilities, including the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center, which promotes an active lifestyle among students. The vibrant campus culture is enriched by various student organizations and extracurricular activities that foster community engagement and leadership skills. Additionally, Aquinas College is known for its strong emphasis on service, encouraging students to participate in community service projects and initiatives that reflect their commitment to making a positive impact in society. With a focus on holistic education and a supportive learning environment, Aquinas College prepares its graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Aquinas College

Aquinas College, a private institution, has shown significant trends in several key areas that warrant attention. One of the most striking trends is the increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from $26,460 to $38,520, marking an increase of approximately 45.5%. This upward trajectory in tuition reflects a broader trend across higher education, where rising costs have become a significant barrier for many prospective students and their families.

Another area of concern is the declining student enrollment. The number of undergraduate students has decreased from 1,922 in 2013 to just 1,169 in 2023, a decrease of about 39%. This decline in enrollment may raise questions about the institution's appeal, potential competition from other colleges, and changing demographics. The reduction in student numbers not only impacts the campus culture but can also affect the institution's financial health due to decreased tuition revenue.

Graduation rates present a mixed picture. While the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates showed fluctuations, it generally hovered around the mid-30% range, with a slight improvement noted in 2023 at approximately 39.5%. This indicates that while some students are successfully completing their degrees, a significant number still face challenges in finishing on time, which could be linked to various factors including academic support and financial pressures.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has shown some variability. It decreased from 13 in 2013 to a low of 10 in 2020, before stabilizing at 11 in the subsequent years. A lower ratio is typically indicative of more personalized attention for students. However, the fluctuation raises questions about faculty resources and potential impacts on the quality of education.

In summary, while Aquinas College has made strides in some areas, the rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, fluctuating graduation rates, and variable student-to-faculty ratios highlight the challenges it faces in maintaining its academic standing and financial stability. These factors will be crucial for the college to address in order to attract and retain students in a competitive higher education landscape.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Aquinas College 2023

The graduation data from Aquinas College in 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the highest number of graduates is seen in Business Administration and Management, with 45 students earning their bachelor's degree. This aligns with the ongoing demand for business professionals in today's job market, reflecting the increasing importance of business education in a globalized economy.

In contrast, several fields within the arts, such as Drama and Theatre Arts, show no graduates at the bachelor's level, which may raise concerns about the viability of these programs at the college. The absence of graduates in certain creative disciplines could suggest either a lack of enrollment or a potential reevaluation of these programs in light of current educational trends.

Additionally, the data indicates that international students are a small fraction of the total graduates, with only one international student completing their bachelor's degree in Business Administration and one in Psychology. This low representation could reflect broader trends in higher education, where international enrollment has been fluctuating due to various factors, including visa restrictions and the global pandemic's lingering effects.

Moreover, the complete absence of master's and doctoral degrees awarded across most disciplines may indicate a potential gap in advanced education offerings at Aquinas College. This could highlight an opportunity for the institution to expand its graduate programs to attract a more diverse student body and better prepare them for competitive job markets.

Overall, the graduation statistics from Aquinas College underscore critical areas for growth and development, particularly in the arts and advanced education, while affirming the strong demand for business-related degrees. These insights could be foundational for future strategic planning within the college.

Analysis of Admissions Trends at Aquinas College

The admission data for Aquinas College reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. A noteworthy observation is the trend in acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. In 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 81.5%, while for females it was around 82.9%. However, by 2023, these rates had decreased to about 89.7% for males and 91.5% for females. This indicates a more competitive environment over the years, particularly during the earlier part of the decade. The total enrollment numbers have also shown variability, with a peak of 456 students in 2009 and a significant drop to 218 students by 2022. This decline may reflect broader trends in higher education, where many institutions face challenges in attracting new students. The pandemic in 2020 likely played a role in this downturn, as many institutions experienced a drop in applications and enrollment during that period. Conversely, the spike in enrollment in 2023 suggests a rebound, potentially indicating a recovery in student interest and market conditions. Moreover, the data shows a substantial number of students being denied admission, with figures peaking at 799 in 2014. This could suggest that the college's admission policies have tightened over the years, reflecting a shift towards a more selective process. The deferment of admission for numerous applicants also raises questions about the college's capacity and strategic planning in managing enrollment and resources effectively. Overall, Aquinas College’s admission trends depict a dynamic landscape influenced by various external factors, including economic conditions and societal shifts in education.

Analysis of Admission Test Trends at Aquinas College

The data from Aquinas College spanning from 2007 to 2023 reveals interesting trends in the submission of standardized test scores, specifically the SAT and ACT. Initially, from 2007 to 2014, there was a consistent reliance on the ACT, with 100% of applicants submitting their scores. However, starting in 2015, the landscape began to change, highlighting a gradual shift towards the SAT.

By 2018, the college saw 74% of applicants submitting SAT scores, which increased to 88% in 2019 and stabilized around 86% in the years 2020 and 2021. This trend may reflect broader changes in college admissions policies, as many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has likely encouraged a greater number of students to consider submitting SAT scores instead of ACT scores, as seen in the subsequent years.

The data also indicates a range of SAT scores among admitted students, with the 25th percentile starting at around 500 and the 75th percentile reaching up to 620 in recent years. This range suggests that the college is maintaining a competitive admissions process, attracting a diverse pool of students with varying academic strengths.

As the trend continues into 2022 and 2023, the decreasing percentage of SAT submissions (from 45% to 15%) may signal a shift towards a more holistic admissions approach, where academic performance and personal attributes are becoming increasingly important. This evolution reflects a significant change in the college admissions landscape, prioritizing student diversity and individual potential over standardized testing metrics.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Aquinas College in 2023

The student demographic data from Aquinas College in 2023 presents a diverse and dynamic community. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 307, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 46.3% to 53.7%, indicating a slightly higher female enrollment in this category. This trend continues among the undergraduate seniors, where the enrollment reaches 745, showing a male representation of 42.8% and female representation of 57.2%.

Notably, the transfer students have a smaller population of 55, with a more pronounced gender disparity, where males comprise only 38.2% and females 61.8%. This suggests that the institution may be attracting more female students among transfers. Graduate students total 96, with a significant female majority of 75%, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

Delving into the breakdown of ethnic demographics among the freshman class, white students make up the largest segment, comprising 235 of the 307 freshmen. This is an important aspect to consider, especially in the context of ongoing discussions around diversity and representation in higher education.

Overall, the gender imbalance, particularly among transfer and graduate students, and the predominance of white students within the freshman cohort, raise important questions about the college's recruitment strategies and inclusivity efforts. As institutions strive for greater diversity, it will be essential for Aquinas College to implement initiatives that not only attract but also retain a wider range of students from various backgrounds.

Age Distribution at Aquinas College: A Closer Look

The age distribution data from Aquinas College reveals interesting trends regarding the student population. The majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the 18-21 age range, with 194 male and 240 female students aged 18-19, and 173 male and 257 female students aged 20-21. This indicates a strong influx of traditional-aged students, which is common in many colleges and universities across the United States, reflecting the trend of students transitioning directly from high school to higher education.

Moreover, the data highlights a significant drop in enrollment for students aged 22-24, where there are 107 male and 93 female undergraduates, alongside a small number of graduate students. This decline suggests that after the initial college years, some students may choose to enter the workforce or take a break from their studies before returning for advanced degrees.

Interestingly, the representation of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, remains minimal. For example, only 2 male students aged 30-34 are enrolled. This trend could reflect the challenges faced by non-traditional students in balancing work, family, and education, often resulting in lower enrollment rates in this demographic.

Overall, the data presents a youthful demographic at Aquinas College, typical of many institutions, while also illuminating the barriers that may deter older students from pursuing higher education. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for colleges to adapt and provide support that caters to students of all ages.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Aquinas College

The data on international student enrollment at Aquinas College reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with notable peaks and valleys. The percentage of international students among undergraduates has shown a steady increase, rising from 0.66% in 2004 to nearly 5% in 2023. This increase indicates a growing appeal of Aquinas College to international students, possibly due to enhanced marketing strategies or academic offerings that attract a diverse student body.

The graduate student enrollment presents a different picture. While the number of graduate students remains relatively low, the percentage of international students has varied significantly, with some years showing a higher representation. For instance, in 2015 and 2016, the international graduate student percentage peaked at around 2.75%. However, in the most recent years, the graduate international student numbers have not shown the same upward trend as their undergraduate counterparts.

This shift may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where many institutions have been seeking to diversify their student populations amid increasing global competition for international talent. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel and education cannot be overlooked, as it has likely influenced enrollment patterns during the years following 2020.

Overall, the increasing percentage of international undergraduates at Aquinas College suggests a positive trend, reflecting the institution's efforts to create a more global academic environment. However, the inconsistencies in graduate enrollment percentages indicate areas for potential growth and improvement in attracting international graduate students.

Here are some notable schools near Aquinas College:

1. University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th in the 2024 US News rankings, Notre Dame is a prestigious research university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

2. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - With a rank of 21, this leading public university is recognized for its innovative research and diverse academic offerings.

3. Michigan State University - Ranked 60th, MSU is one of the nation's largest public universities, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

4. Kalamazoo College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Kalamazoo is ranked 70th and is known for its commitment to experiential learning and study abroad programs.

5. Hillsdale College - Ranked 39th, Hillsdale is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes a classical education and the study of Western heritage.

6. Northwestern University - A prestigious private university ranked 9th, Northwestern is known for its strong programs in journalism, law, and the performing arts.

7. University of Chicago - Ranked 12th, UChicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and influential research, particularly in economics and social sciences.

These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and resources in the vicinity of Aquinas College.

Analysis of Crime Data at Aquinas College

The crime data from Aquinas College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in the criminal activities reported on campus. Notable spikes are observed, particularly in 2017 and 2023, with crime rates reaching 17.12 and 22.29 per 1000 students, respectively. This alarming trend suggests a growing concern for campus safety, warranting attention from both the college administration and the local community.

The data indicates that in 2017, there were considerable incidents of alcohol-related arrests and drug offenses, which likely contributed to the elevated crime rate. On the other hand, the drop in crime rates in 2021 to 3.30 per 1000 students could be attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activity and increased health protocols. However, the resurgence of crime in 2023 raises questions about the effectiveness of current safety measures and the potential effects of returning to pre-pandemic campus life.

In contrast to national averages, which often highlight increased crime rates in college settings, the data from Aquinas College emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and proactive measures to ensure student safety. The college should consider implementing more robust prevention strategies, including educational programs on substance abuse and mental health resources, to address the underlying issues contributing to these statistics.

For a deeper understanding of how crime rates are calculated, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.