Gannon University, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a private Catholic university known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Founded in 1925, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including health sciences, engineering, business, and the humanities. One of the university's distinguishing features is its emphasis on experiential learning. Gannon promotes hands-on experiences through internships, research opportunities, and community engagement, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. This approach not only enhances learning but also prepares students for successful careers after graduation.

The university is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus culture. Gannon's vibrant student life is enriched by numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, providing students with opportunities to engage socially and develop leadership skills. The Gannon Knights compete in NCAA Division II sports, promoting a strong spirit of teamwork and competition among students. Additionally, the university's campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational areas that enhance the learning experience. With a focus on values such as respect, responsibility, and service, Gannon University instills a strong sense of community and purpose in its students, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to society.

Tuition and Student Retention Trends

The data reveals significant trends in tuition and student retention rates at Gannon University over the years. Notably, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a consistent upward trajectory, rising from $28,361 in 2014 to $37,951 in 2024. This increase represents a cumulative growth of approximately 33.8%, which is reflective of broader trends in higher education where tuition costs have escalated, often outpacing inflation. As students and families face these rising costs, the burden of financing education continues to be a pressing concern across the nation.

In contrast to the escalating tuition, student retention rates have experienced fluctuations. The retention rate for undergraduate students peaked at approximately 85.2% in 2018 but has since declined to about 78.7% in 2023. This downward trend may signal potential issues within the institution related to student satisfaction or academic support, which could be exacerbated by the financial strain that rising tuition imposes. High retention rates are crucial for colleges as they directly correlate with student success and the institution’s overall reputation.

Furthermore, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has seen a slight shift, with the proportion of female students increasing slightly in recent years. In 2023, women constituted approximately 58.5% of the undergraduate population, compared to 57.9% in 2013. This gradual change reflects broader societal trends towards gender parity in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily rising.

Overall, while Gannon University continues to attract a diverse student body, the challenges posed by increasing tuition and fluctuating retention rates call for strategic interventions to enhance student support and ensure financial accessibility. Addressing these issues will be vital for enhancing the university's attractiveness and maintaining its commitment to educational excellence.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Gannon University

The graduation data from Gannon University reveals intriguing trends, particularly in the health and management sectors. Notably, the Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences program is a standout, with 132 bachelor's degrees awarded, demonstrating the institution's strong focus on healthcare education. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness of the importance of health services.

In the area of management sciences, the absence of bachelor's degrees, coupled with a significant number of master's degrees conferred (108, with 83 awarded to international students), suggests a shift in focus towards postgraduate education. This could indicate that professionals are prioritizing advanced qualifications to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market. The 77% representation of international students in this master's program further highlights Gannon University's appeal to a global audience, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly attracting international talent.

Interestingly, while the Physical Therapy program produced 70 doctoral graduates, it did not report any bachelor's or master's degrees, suggesting it may be a more advanced entry point for students already holding undergraduate degrees. This could reflect the profession's requirements for advanced training, as physical therapy has been evolving into a doctoral-level profession in many regions.

Overall, Gannon University appears to be strategically aligning its programs with workforce demands, particularly in health professions and advanced management education, while simultaneously catering to a diverse international student body.

Trends in Gannon University's Admissions and Rankings

Gannon University has experienced notable fluctuations in its admissions metrics and rankings over the years. From 2009 to 2019, the university's acceptance rates for both male and female applicants showed a relatively high acceptance rate, peaking in 2010 with rates of approximately 83% for males and 84% for females. However, starting in 2020, the acceptance rates began to decline, with the male acceptance rate dropping to around 70% and the female rate to nearly 80%. This indicates a more competitive admissions landscape, which could reflect the university's increased selectivity or a rise in applicant numbers. In terms of enrollment, the total number of students admitted has generally remained consistent, with a slight decline noted in recent years. For instance, enrollment figures across the years hovered around 600 to 770 students, with the highest number reaching 771 in 2019. The number of denied applications has also fluctuated, peaking in 2016 and 2023, where the university denied over 1,200 applicants, indicating a growing pool of applicants seeking admission. The university's rankings have shown a downward trend as well. From a peak ranking of 218 in 2020, Gannon University slipped to 263 in 2023. Such changes in ranking may impact prospective students' perceptions of the university's academic quality and overall reputation. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, Gannon University may need to adapt its recruitment strategies to maintain its appeal and improve its rankings while navigating the challenges posed by fluctuating acceptance rates and enrollments.

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Gannon University

The data from Gannon University highlights notable trends in SAT and ACT scores over the years from 2007 to 2023. Initially, the proportion of students submitting SAT scores remained high, with almost 90% participation in the earlier years. However, by 2022 and 2023, this figure dramatically dropped to only 34%, indicating a significant shift in admission policies and perhaps a broader trend in higher education towards test-optional admissions.

In terms of SAT scores, we see a fluctuation in both the 25th and 75th percentile scores. For instance, the SAT reading scores started at a range of 460-540 in 2007, and by 2020, this range had increased to 520-620. This upward trend suggests an overall improvement in the academic preparedness of incoming students, although the scores slightly varied in the following years.

The number of students taking the SAT has also seen variations, with a peak number of 641 in 2019. The drop in participants in the last two years could be attributed to the increased acceptance of diverse admission criteria, including holistic review processes that may not prioritize standardized test scores.

Additionally, the ACT scores reflect a similar pattern, with increasing ranges over the years, suggesting that students are performing better on average. The trend towards higher scores combined with lower submission rates of standardized tests indicates that Gannon University, like many institutions, is adapting to the changing landscape of college admissions, prioritizing a more comprehensive evaluation of candidates beyond traditional test scores. This evolution reflects the ongoing conversation about equity and access in higher education, encouraging a broader range of applicants to consider Gannon University as a viable option for their academic pursuits.

Demographic Insights of Gannon University Students in 2023

The data from Gannon University reveals a diverse student body, with a notable distribution among undergraduate freshmen, upperclassmen, transfer students, and graduate students. In 2023, undergraduate freshmen comprised 641 students, with a gender distribution of approximately 42.9% male and 57.1% female. This indicates a slight female majority among new undergraduate entrants, a trend that is increasingly common at many U.S. universities.

Upperclassmen represented the largest group, totaling 1,863 students, with a gender ratio similar to that of freshmen—40.5% male and 59.5% female. This consistency across classes suggests that Gannon University has maintained a stable gender demographic in recent years. Conversely, the transfer students, numbering 84, showed a higher male representation at 56%, indicating that male students may be more likely to transfer into the institution.

Graduate students accounted for 1,574 individuals, with a gender ratio of 44.8% male and 55.2% female, further reflecting the overall trend of higher female enrollment in higher education.

The data also highlights the racial diversity among these groups, particularly among the upperclassmen, where a significant number of students identify as white, followed by other racial backgrounds. This demographic distribution is critical for understanding the cultural and social landscape of the university, aligning with broader national trends emphasizing diversity and inclusion in higher education.

Overall, Gannon University appears to be fostering an inclusive environment, with a healthy balance of gender representation and a diverse student population, which is essential for preparing students for a multicultural world.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Gannon University in 2023

The age composition data of students at Gannon University in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic among its student body. Notably, the largest age group is comprised of students aged 18-19, with 448 male undergraduates and 635 female undergraduates, making it a significant 48.1% of the total female student population. This suggests that Gannon University is attracting a substantial number of recent high school graduates.

The next prominent age group is 20-21, which includes 443 male undergraduates and 652 female undergraduates. The presence of graduate students in this category, although small, indicates that some students are choosing to continue their education immediately after completing their undergraduate studies.

The age groups of 22-24 and 25-29 show an interesting shift, with a notable increase in graduate students, particularly males aged 22-24, who total 324. This trend could reflect a rising demand for advanced degrees and a growing acceptance of non-traditional students returning to education in their mid to late twenties.

Additionally, the data reveals a marked decrease in student numbers as age increases, particularly for those over 30. This indicates that Gannon University primarily caters to younger students, which aligns with broader trends seen in higher education institutions across the United States. With the ongoing emphasis on lifelong learning, universities may need to strategize on better accommodating older students and non-traditional learners.

Overall, Gannon University displays a pronounced youthful demographic, which is typical of many universities today, but it also highlights the potential for growth in programs aimed at older students.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Gannon University

The data reveals notable trends in the international student population at Gannon University over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has shown a significant increase, rising from 35 to 362. This represents a growth in the percentage of international students from a mere 1.44% to an impressive 11.71% of the total undergraduate population. Such an increase reflects the university's growing appeal to a global audience, potentially influenced by factors such as enhanced academic programs, supportive community, and recruitment efforts aimed at attracting international talent.

Conversely, the graduate student segment has also seen fluctuations in international enrollment. In 2004, international students made up 9.67% of the graduate population, which peaked at 38.31% in 2023. This dramatic rise in the proportion of international graduate students indicates that Gannon University has successfully positioned itself as a desirable destination for graduate studies.

The increasing international student population can be attributed to broader trends in higher education, where institutions worldwide are becoming more competitive in recruiting students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the global pandemic and its aftermath have shifted educational priorities, leading more students to seek international experiences that enhance their academic credentials and cultural understanding.

Overall, Gannon University appears to be thriving in its efforts to attract international students, making it a more vibrant and diverse academic community. This trend not only enriches the educational experience for all students but also contributes to the university's reputation on a global scale.

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Gannon University:

1. Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 21st in the 2025 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is renowned for its programs in engineering, computer science, and the arts.

2. Case Western Reserve University - With a ranking of 51, Case Western is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

3. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - This university ranks 70th and is known for its excellent health sciences programs and vibrant campus life.

4. University of Rochester - Ranked 44th, the University of Rochester is famous for its music program and research opportunities across various disciplines.

5. University at Buffalo - At 76th place, UB is the largest campus in the SUNY system and offers a wide array of programs with a strong focus on research and community engagement.

6. Oberlin College - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 55th, Oberlin is known for its commitment to social justice and its renowned Conservatory of Music.

7. The College of Wooster - Ranked 77th, this liberal arts college emphasizes independent study and offers a unique curriculum that encourages student-led research.

These institutions offer a range of programs and experiences for students, making the area around Gannon University a vibrant educational hub.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Gannon University

The crime data from Gannon University over the past decade reveals notable trends in campus safety. In 2013, the average crime rate was recorded at 7.68 incidents per 1,000 students, which has seen fluctuations in subsequent years. The peak occurred in 2015 with a rate of 14.78, indicating a concerning rise in criminal activity during that period.

Following 2015, there was a gradual decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 5.49 in 2023. This decline is promising and suggests that efforts to enhance campus security may have been effective. It is crucial to highlight that the most prevalent crime types reported include drug and alcohol-related arrests, with fluctuations in domestic violence and theft incidents also noted.

The increase in crime rates in certain years may correlate with broader societal issues, including increased substance abuse or economic factors impacting college students. The decrease in recent years could reflect the impact of proactive measures taken by the university and local law enforcement to address these issues.

Overall, while the data shows significant variances, the general trend towards lower crime rates is encouraging. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of security policies will be essential for maintaining and improving campus safety standards. For further understanding of crime rates, including calculation methods, you can refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.