Bellarmine University
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 273(↑7) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic
School Chief: Susan M. Donovan (President)
Website: https://www.bellarmine.edu/; Phone: 5022728263
Location: 2001 Newburg Rd, Louisville, KY, 40205-0671

Bellarmine University Important Facts
Analysis of Key Metrics at Bellarmine University
Over the past decade, Bellarmine University has witnessed significant fluctuations in various metrics, especially concerning tuition costs and graduation rates. Specifically, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has experienced a striking increase, rising from approximately $34,890 in 2014 to $46,780 in 2024. This represents a notable escalation, highlighting the growing financial burden on students seeking higher education. The rising tuition aligns with national trends observed in higher education, where the cost continues to outpace inflation and wage growth.
Contrasting the rising tuition costs, the graduation rates present a somewhat positive picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has improved marginally from 51.49% in 2014 to 57.57% in 2024. This upward trend potentially indicates stronger support systems within the university that are aiding student success, despite the increasing costs of attendance. However, the retention rates tell a more nuanced story, dipping below 80% after 2018 before rebounding to around 81% by 2023. This retention rate fluctuation may point to challenges that students face during their academic journey, particularly as decreasing total student enrollment figures could contribute to a less vibrant campus community.
Moreover, gender representation among students has also shifted slightly, with male undergraduate representation increasing from 36.4% in 2014 to 38.9% in 2024. This subtle change may reflect broader trends in higher education enrollment as more women pursue degrees.
In conclusion, Bellarmine University is navigating the complex landscape of higher education with rising costs juxtaposed against marginal improvements in graduation rates and fluctuating retention. As institutions continue to evolve, focusing on balancing affordability, enrollment diversification, and student success will be essential in fostering a thriving academic environment.
Bellarmine University Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Bellarmine University in 2023
In examining the graduate numbers for different programs at Bellarmine University in 2023, several key trends and notable insights emerge. The data reveals a distinct focus on health and medical fields, particularly in the Doctorate in Physical Therapy, which boasts 73 graduates, indicating a strong demand for qualified professionals in this area. Interestingly, this program only has one international student completing a Doctorate, suggesting that domestic students dominate this field.
Furthermore, while the Psychology program has produced 67 Bachelor's graduates, it also reflects a complete absence of international students in both Bachelor's and Master's degrees. This could signal barriers to entry or a lack of awareness about the program among potential international candidates, emphasizing the need for improved outreach and recruitment strategies.
In contrast, the Business Administration Master's program produced 46 graduates. This program appears particularly attractive, possibly hinting at a growing interest in business careers and the university's ability to attract a diverse cohort of students interested in this domain.
On the other hand, essential programs like Nursing and Public Health show minimal output with no graduates across Bachelor's and Master's levels. This could indicate either a lack of enrollment or limited offerings in these disciplines, which is concerning given the current healthcare landscape that increasingly relies on trained professionals in these fields.
Overall, the data highlights an essential area for growth and potential program development at Bellarmine University, particularly in disciplines less represented. It also reinforces the importance of promoting and attracting a diverse student body, particularly in the fields of psychology and health-related studies, to align with the growing global demand for healthcare professionals.
Bellarmine University Ranking and Admission
Trends in Bellarmine University Admissions and Rankings
Bellarmine University has seen a fluctuating trajectory in its rankings and acceptance rates over the years. Notably, the most recent ranking for 2025 positions the university at 273, slightly improving from the previous year's 280, yet still suggests a challenging environment in maintaining competitive stature among U.S. institutions. The admission rates reveal an interesting dynamic, particularly in the context of gender disparities. Male acceptance rates saw a consistent decline, reaching approximately 66.1% in 2024, while female acceptance remained comparatively high at around 93.7%. The disparity indicates a potential shift in the demographics of applicants, suggesting that female applicants may be more prevalent or successful in the admission process, highlighting a broader trend observed in many universities nationwide. Enrollment figures also convey a narrative of resilience amidst fluctuating rankings, as Bellarmine welcomed 632 new students in 2024 despite the competitive landscape. However, the number of applicants who were denied admission remains considerable, with a significant denial count reflected in data from prior years reaching up to 3,309 in 2011. Furthermore, the rate of deferrals indicates that a portion of admitted students choose to delay their enrollment, which could be attributed to various factors like financial constraints or personal decisions influenced by current global events. As many universities adapt to post-pandemic realities, Bellarmine's admission strategies and ranking adjustments could be indicative of shifts in higher education landscapes, necessitating ongoing monitoring and strategic planning to enhance its appeal and maintain academic standards.
Bellarmine University Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Bellarmine University
The provided data on standardized test scores at Bellarmine University reveals significant trends over the years concerning both SAT and ACT participation and performance. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has declined sharply, dropping from 29% in 2007 to a mere 8% in 2022 and 2024. This decrease indicates a potential shift in applicant preferences or the university's testing policies, possibly influenced by a growing trend towards test-optional admissions across many institutions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
When examining the SAT reading and math scores reported, the range between the 25th and 75th percentiles showcases a broader variability over the years. The SAT reading scores have shown a general improvement with the lower bounds of the 25th percentile remaining relatively stable, while the higher end reflects a slight upward trend, hitting scores between 560 and 640 in recent years. This suggests that among those who are submitting scores, there is a push towards higher academic qualifications.
In contrast, the ACT scores exhibit a more volatile pattern, with a significant shift in the number of students submitting these scores as well. The ACT overall composite score trends appear to fluctuate without a clear upward or downward trajectory, hinting at mixed levels of academic preparedness among applicants.
Overall, these data points reflect wider changes in higher education admissions landscapes, showcasing how institutions like Bellarmine University are adapting to both student choices in standardized testing and evolving academic standards in a competitive environment.
Bellarmine University Students Diversity
Student Demographics at Bellarmine University for 2024
The student demographic data for Bellarmine University in 2024 reveals significant insights into the composition of the student body, particularly regarding gender distribution and ethnic representation. A total of 632 new undergraduate students, 1,513 continuing undergraduates, 141 transfer students, and 642 graduate students reflect a diverse community.
Notably, females constitute a majority across all categories, with female students making up 61.9% of new undergraduates, which is slightly higher than the 61.2% among continuing students. This gender gap persists at the graduate level as well, where female representation is 62.3%. This trend aligns with broader educational statistics, which often indicate that women are enrolling in higher education at increasing rates compared to men.
Examining ethnic representation, while specific numbers for the undergraduate continuing students and graduate students were not available, the new undergraduate statistics reveal that 66% are White, with a small percentage represented by Asian, Latinx, and other ethnic backgrounds. This signifies a predominantly white demographic, yet it is essential for universities to continually work towards fostering inclusivity and diversity in their student populations. This data illustrates both the achievements and the challenges Bellarmine University faces as it strives to provide equitable educational opportunities for all students, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of higher education in the United States.
Bellarmine University Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Age Distribution at Bellarmine University
The age distribution data from Bellarmine University for 2024 reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body. The largest segments are found in the 18-19 and 20-21 age ranges, accounting for a significant portion of the undergraduate students. Specifically, there are 373 male and 623 female undergraduates aged 18-19, which shows a strong influx of traditional college-age students. This trend aligns with national patterns observed in higher education, where a majority of students tend to enter college directly after high school.
Interestingly, the 20-21 age group maintains a robust presence, with 359 total students, indicating that many students are moving through their undergraduate years efficiently. However, the data begins to show a noteworthy decline in student numbers as the age increases. For example, in the 22-24 age range, the total drops to 467, reflecting challenges such as entering the workforce or changing life circumstances that might delay graduation.
The representation of older students is quite minimal, with only 78 individuals aged 25-29 and just a handful in the higher brackets. This could suggest a predominance of traditional students, perhaps limiting the diversity of experiences that older or non-traditional students bring to the campus.
The gender distribution is another aspect worth noting; while there are more female undergraduates across most age groups, graduate programs exhibit a more balanced or diverse representation, particularly in the 22-24 age range. This balance encourages an inclusive academic environment that is critical for fostering various perspectives. Overall, Bellarmine University showcases a typical demographic profile for a private institution, with opportunities for further engagement with adult learners in subsequent years.
Bellarmine University International Students Trends
Analysis of International Student Trends at Bellarmine University
The data on international students at Bellarmine University reveals notable trends over the years, particularly for undergraduate and graduate programs. There has been a gradual increase in the number of international undergraduate students, reaching a peak in 2024 with 2.17% of the total undergraduate population. This growth reflects a broader trend seen across many universities in the U.S. as institutions become more proactive in attracting global talent.
In contrast, the graduate student population exhibits fluctuating international enrollment rates. After a significant uptick of 2.08% in 2019, there appears to be inconsistency in the retention and recruitment of international graduate students in subsequent years, with numbers dropping as low as 0.20% in 2015 before climbing again in 2020. This inconsistency can be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events, and the university's outreach strategies.
As universities, including Bellarmine, navigate the post-pandemic landscape, understanding these trends becomes imperative. The small percentages of international students suggest that while there is an interest, there is significant room for growth. In an increasingly competitive global higher education market, Bellarmine University has opportunities to enhance its international recruitment efforts to foster a more diverse academic environment. Efforts could include establishing partnerships with international institutions or increasing support services for international students to encourage enrollment and retention. In summary, the current statistics present both challenges and opportunities for Bellarmine University in bolstering its international student presence.
Bellarmine University Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable universities surrounding Bellarmine University:
University of Louisville - Ranked 179 in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is renowned for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.
Centre College - A liberal arts college ranked 59, Centre College is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and close faculty-student interaction.
University of Kentucky - With a rank of 152, this comprehensive university boasts extensive research opportunities and a strong athletic program.
Indiana University-Bloomington - Ranked 73, this comprehensive university is recognized for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant student community.
Berea College - This highly-ranked liberal arts college at 40 offers a unique work-study program, making education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
Xavier University - Ranked 209, Xavier is a comprehensive university that blends liberal arts education with professional preparation.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - With a rank of 152, this university is noted for its research and comprehensive program offerings across various disciplines.
Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution with a rank of 18, Vanderbilt is known for its rigorous academic programs and research initiatives.
Miami University-Oxford - Ranked 136, this comprehensive university emphasizes undergraduate research and has a strong liberal arts focus.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Bellarmine University.
Campus Safety
Analysis of Crime Rates at Bellarmine University
The trends in crime rates at Bellarmine University from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively high at 11.27 reported incidents per 1,000 students, but it peaked in 2014 at 12.17 before gradually declining over the next few years. The most notable drop occurred in 2015, where the rate fell to 7.04, suggesting improvements in campus safety or effective crime prevention measures.
A concerning trend is observed in 2016 and 2017, where after a slight increase, the rates remained above 8 incidents per 1,000 students before another decline in 2018. Interestingly, the lowest rates were recorded in 2020 with 3.84 incidents per 1,000 students, possibly a result of reduced campus activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequent years, however, have shown slight increases, returning to 5.86 in 2023.
Among the recorded arrests, offenses related to drug possession, alcohol-related incidents, and firearm-related arrests are critical areas. The absence of on-campus arrests related to these categories over the years might indicate a positive trend in student behavior and institutional policies.
Overall, while the crime rates at Bellarmine University fluctuate, the general direction is towards a decrease, particularly over the recent years. Continuous monitoring and effective crime prevention strategies are essential in maintaining a safe educational environment. Parameters from crime rates can help institutions address specific issues and improve campus security measures. For details on how crime rates are calculated, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Reference
- Bellarmine University Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
Bellarmine University Important Facts Trends
Bellarmine University degrees/majors
Bellarmine University major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,061-$68,630 | |||
Accounting. | - | |||
Finance, General. | - | |||
Actuarial Science. | - | |||
Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | - | |||
Superintendency and Educational System Administration. | - | |||
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other. | - | |||
Special Education and Teaching, General. | $40,785 | |||
Elementary Education and Teaching. | $38,469-$52,664 | |||
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $38,469-$52,664 | |||
Secondary Education and Teaching. | $38,469-$52,664 | |||
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $38,469-$52,664 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Psychology, General. | $29,028 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $34,858 | |||
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $29,253 | |||
Biomedical Sciences, General. | $29,253 | |||
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. | - | |||
Neuroscience. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $30,236 | |||
Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $30,236 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | |||
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | |||
Music, General. | - | |||
Fine and Studio Arts Management. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Economics, General. | - | |||
Political Science and Government, General. | $25,424 | |||
Sociology, General. | - | |||
Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Computer Engineering, General. | - | |||
Computer Software Engineering. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
English Language and Literature, General. | $32,295 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
History, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Data Science, General. | - | |||
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | $30,930 |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mathematics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Environmental Science. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chemistry, General. | - | |||
Physics, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|
Philosophy. | - |
Bellarmine University Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Bellarmine University Varsity Athletes
NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 84 | 81 |
Soccer | 41 | 30 |
Lacrosse | 50 | - |
Swimming | 26 | 22 |
Basketball | 17 | 17 |
Wrestling | 34 | - |
Baseball | 30 | - |
Field Hockey | - | 29 |
Softball | - | 23 |
Golf | 13 | 7 |
Volleyball | - | 18 |
Tennis | 8 | 9 |
NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 85 | 90 |
Soccer | 38 | 30 |
Lacrosse | 49 | - |
Swimming | 22 | 25 |
Baseball | 36 | - |
Basketball | 18 | 17 |
Wrestling | 29 | - |
Softball | - | 26 |
Field Hockey | - | 25 |
Volleyball | - | 18 |
Golf | 10 | 7 |
Tennis | 7 | 6 |
NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
---|---|---|
All Track Combined | 62 | 92 |
Soccer | 36 | 26 |
Lacrosse | 50 | - |
Swimming | 23 | 25 |
Baseball | 41 | - |
Wrestling | 30 | - |
Basketball | 16 | 13 |
Field Hockey | - | 24 |
Softball | - | 23 |
Tennis | 12 | 7 |
Volleyball | - | 17 |
Golf | 8 | 8 |
Bellarmine University, located in Louisville, Kentucky, is a private Catholic liberal arts university that offers a unique blend of academic rigor and a supportive community. Founded in 1950, the university is named after Saint Robert Bellarmine, a Jesuit cardinal known for his dedication to education and the Church. Bellarmine emphasizes its commitment to the liberal arts, encouraging critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a sense of social responsibility among its students. The university's motto, "The Truth Will Set You Free," reflects its mission to foster an environment where students can pursue knowledge and personal growth.
With a beautiful campus that features state-of-the-art facilities, Bellarmine provides an inviting atmosphere for learning and collaboration. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health sciences, education, and liberal arts. Small class sizes ensure that students receive personalized attention from dedicated faculty who are not only accomplished scholars but also passionate about teaching. Additionally, Bellarmine has a vibrant athletic program, with opportunities for students to engage in a variety of sports, fostering teamwork and school spirit. The university maintains a strong focus on student life, encouraging involvement in clubs, organizations, and community service, which enhances the overall educational experience and prepares graduates for successful futures.