Benedictine University, located in Lisle, Illinois, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic education rooted in Catholic values. Established in 1887, the university emphasizes the development of the whole person, aligning with its motto, "Ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus," which translates to "That in all things God may be glorified." This guiding principle fosters a strong sense of community and ethical responsibility among students, encouraging them to engage in service and leadership within society. The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in business, health sciences, and education, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen fields.

The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which enhance the overall student experience. Benedictine University also boasts a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs that promote teamwork and personal growth. The university’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its green initiatives and eco-friendly practices, contributing to a positive and innovative learning environment. Graduates leave Benedictine University well-prepared for the workforce, thanks to strong connections with local industries and a focus on experiential learning. The university takes pride in its dedicated faculty, who are not only experts in their fields but also mentors who support students' academic and personal development.

Analysis of Tuition Fees, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates

The data from Benedictine University reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition fees have steadily increased, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $25,516 in 2014 to $32,546 in 2024, reflecting a growing financial burden on students and families. The consistent increase in tuition may correlate with the rising costs of higher education, which has been a prominent discussion in recent years, especially as student debt continues to escalate nationally.

Enrollment figures indicate a concerning decline, particularly in undergraduate numbers, which dropped from 3,828 in 2014 to just 2,042 in 2023. This trend may be indicative of broader demographic shifts, increased competition among institutions, or financial constraints faced by potential students. The decline in enrollment could also impact the university's financial sustainability and its ability to offer diverse programs and services.

Moreover, graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates showed fluctuations, with a peak of 40.2% in 2013, dropping to 32.8% in 2023. This decline raises questions about the support systems in place for students, especially in light of the lower retention rates observed in recent years. Retention rates have hovered around 67% in the latest years, suggesting that while many students initially enroll, a significant portion does not continue to persist through graduation.

In summary, as tuition rises and enrollment declines, the university faces challenges in maintaining a robust academic environment. The declining graduation rates further underscore the need for institutions to enhance their support mechanisms to foster student success and retention. As higher education becomes more expensive, universities must innovate to provide value that resonates with prospective students.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Benedictine University

The graduation data from Benedictine University reveals significant insights into the academic trends for the year 2023. Notably, the data shows a strong focus on graduate-level education, particularly in fields related to health and business. For instance, the Master’s program in Business Administration and Management saw a total of 226 graduates, highlighting its appeal among students. This trend reflects the increasing demand for advanced skills in a competitive job market, especially in business sectors.

Interestingly, while the undergraduate programs appear to have minimal international representation, the Master’s program in Nursing Science had one international graduate. This suggests that the university may be attracting a more diverse cohort at the graduate level, particularly in healthcare, which is crucial given the global emphasis on health professions in light of the ongoing challenges posed by public health issues.

Moreover, the lack of graduates in various undergraduate programs indicates a potential gap in student interest or market demand for those fields. For example, both the Environmental Science and Humanities programs reported zero graduates, which could prompt the university to reassess their curricular offerings or marketing strategies to boost enrollment in these areas.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning educational programs with market needs and student interests, especially in a post-pandemic world where career trajectories are evolving rapidly. As institutions strive to prepare students for future challenges, Benedictine University may need to enhance its support for both undergraduate and international student populations to foster a more inclusive and diverse academic environment.

Analysis of Benedictine University's Admission Trends

Benedictine University has experienced notable fluctuations in its rankings and admission rates over the years. The most recent ranking for 2025, which is crucial for prospective students to consider, has not been disclosed in the available data. However, looking back at the historical rankings, the university peaked at 221 in 2019 but has since seen a decline, landing at 299 in 2022. This downward trend could potentially impact the institution's appeal to applicants. Examining the admission rates, there is a significant contrast between male and female acceptance rates. For instance, in 2023, the male admission rate reached an impressive 91.5%, while the female rate was slightly lower at 94.7%. This disparity suggests a more competitive environment for male applicants, raising questions about the university's recruitment strategies and gender diversity initiatives. The enrollment numbers also tell an important story. In 2023, the university welcomed 425 new students while denying 189 applicants, indicating a selective admission process. The previous years show a more volatile enrollment pattern, with a peak of 673 in 2015. The fluctuation in these figures may be reflective of broader trends in higher education, including changing demographics and shifting perceptions of university value. Overall, as Benedictine University navigates its way through these challenges, it must focus on enhancing its reputation and maintaining a balanced admission strategy that fosters diversity and academic excellence. The upcoming ranking and admission strategies will be critical in determining its future trajectory.

Analysis of Benedictine University's Admissions Data

The admissions data for Benedictine University over the years provides a revealing insight into the evolving academic landscape of incoming students. Firstly, the number of students submitting standardized test scores has fluctuated significantly, with a peak in 2019 where 44% of the admitted students submitted SAT scores. This trend aligns with a growing national conversation about the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions, prompting many institutions to adopt test-optional policies.

Examining the score ranges, we see a notable increase in the 25th to 75th percentile scores for the SAT reading and math sections from 2008 to 2022. For instance, the reading scores have improved from a range of 455-575 in 2008 to 520-630 in 2022. This upward trajectory suggests that the institution is attracting more academically prepared students, reflecting a potential rise in both the quality of education and the competitiveness of the admissions process.

Moreover, the ACT scores demonstrate similar trends, with the 25th percentile starting at 18 (in earlier years) and edging upward in subsequent years. This indicates a shift toward a more academically rigorous profile for admitted students.

These changes are significant in the context of broader educational trends, where universities increasingly emphasize holistic review processes, considering factors beyond test scores. As universities navigate these trends, it will be crucial to balance inclusivity with academic excellence to maintain their reputations while adapting to the evolving expectations of prospective students.

Student Demographics at Benedictine University in 2023

In 2023, Benedictine University showcases a diverse array of student demographics across its various classifications. The undergraduate freshmen, numbering 425, exhibit a male-to-female ratio of approximately 57.2% males to 42.8% females, indicating a slightly male-dominated cohort. Meanwhile, the undergraduate juniors present a more balanced gender distribution with 51.6% males and 48.4% females, highlighting a gradual shift towards gender parity in upperclassmen.

The undergraduate transfer students reflect a similar trend with a ratio of 50.8% males to 49.2% females, suggesting that gender balance is becoming a norm among transfer students. Conversely, the graduate student population shows a significant gender imbalance, with only 29% males compared to 71% females. This disparity may indicate a growing trend in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, a point that resonates with national trends reported in recent studies.

The breakdown of underrepresented groups among these categories remains crucial to understanding the university's commitment to diversity. While specific data for the subspecies is not fully available for all classifications, the representation of various ethnic backgrounds is essential for fostering an inclusive environment. Overall, the statistics from 2023 indicate that Benedictine University is making strides toward gender inclusivity, though there remains room for improvement in supporting a balanced representation across all student demographics.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Benedictine University in 2023

The age composition of students at Benedictine University in 2023 reveals intriguing trends in enrollment across different age groups and genders. The data indicates a significant predominance of younger students, particularly in the 18-21 age bracket, which combined accounts for approximately 57% of total male enrollment and 61% of total female enrollment. This signifies a strong influx of traditional college-age students, likely reflecting ongoing trends in higher education where younger individuals pursue undergraduate degrees directly after high school.

Interestingly, the university also hosts a considerable number of graduate students, particularly in the 22-24 age group, where the male and female graduate student population shows a healthy balance. The large number of students aged between 25-29 and 30-34 demonstrates that the institution caters to non-traditional students as well, with approximately 33% of the total female enrollment coming from these age groups, indicating a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

However, it is noteworthy that participation drops significantly in older age brackets, with those aged 50 and above representing only a small fraction of the total student body. This trend reflects broader societal patterns where older individuals may face various barriers to returning to education, such as work commitments or financial constraints.

Overall, the data illustrates that Benedictine University attracts a diverse age range, with strong numbers in both traditional and non-traditional segments, which aligns well with current trends in higher education that emphasize inclusivity and accessibility for all age groups.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Benedictine University

The data from Benedictine University over the years illustrates a declining trend in the proportion of international students among both undergraduate and graduate populations. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates was 2.79%, peaking at 2.27% in 2014 before experiencing fluctuations and ultimately falling to 2.25% in 2023. This trend indicates a potential decrease in the university's appeal to international undergraduates, which might be influenced by various factors including changing global policies on education and travel, as well as competition from other institutions.

Similarly, the percentage of international graduate students has seen a downward trajectory. The highest percentage recorded was 3.16% in 2004, but it has gradually decreased to just 1.02% by 2023. This significant drop raises concerns regarding the university's recruitment strategies for graduate programs, especially in an increasingly competitive educational environment where many institutions are actively seeking to enhance their international student body.

The overall decline in international representation may also reflect broader trends in higher education, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education. As universities worldwide adapt to these changes, Benedictine University may need to reassess its marketing and outreach efforts to attract a more diverse student body.

Moreover, fostering a supportive environment for international students, including cultural integration programs and academic support, could enhance the university's attractiveness. Addressing these challenges is essential for the long-term growth and diversity of the student population at Benedictine University.

Here are some notable universities near Benedictine University:

1. Wheaton College - Ranked 53rd in the 2025 US News rankings, Wheaton College is a liberal arts college known for its strong Christian foundation and rigorous academic programs.

2. University of Chicago - One of the top universities in the nation, ranked 11th, the University of Chicago is renowned for its research and diverse academic offerings.

3. Northwestern University - With a rank of 6th, Northwestern University is a prestigious research institution known for its interdisciplinary programs and vibrant campus life.

4. University of Illinois Chicago - Ranked 80th, UIC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its commitment to research and community service.

5. DePaul University - Ranked 165th, DePaul is known for its strong emphasis on practical experience and community engagement, offering a variety of programs in the heart of Chicago.

6. Loyola University Chicago - With a rank of 132, Loyola is a Jesuit institution that provides a comprehensive education with a focus on social justice and ethics.

7. Marquette University - Ranked 86th, Marquette is a private Catholic university that offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its vibrant campus community.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded for their academic excellence.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Benedictine University

The crime data from Benedictine University over the years shows a fluctuating trend in incidents per 1,000 students. Starting from 2013 with a rate of 8.75 incidents per 1,000, there was a noticeable increase until 2017, reaching a peak of 12.66. This spike may be attributed to various factors, including increased reporting, changes in campus security policies, or social dynamics within the student population.

From 2017 onwards, there is a significant decline in the crime rate, particularly in 2021, where it dropped to 3.70 incidents per 1,000 students. This decline could indicate improved safety measures, heightened awareness among students regarding crime, or effective intervention strategies by campus authorities. However, it's essential to consider that the data for 2020 and 2021 coincides with the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly altered campus life and student activities, potentially impacting crime rates.

The types of crimes reported, such as domestic violence, drug arrests, and theft, highlight the ongoing challenges that universities face in ensuring student safety. Understanding these statistics is crucial for developing better preventive measures and fostering a secure environment for students.

As we analyze these trends, it's important for the university to continue monitoring these statistics and adapt their response strategies accordingly. Such proactive measures will not only help in maintaining a safe campus but also reassure students and their families about their well-being while pursuing education.

For more information on calculating crime rates, you can visit: Crime Rate Calculation.