Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is a private Christian university located in West Palm Beach, Florida. Established in 1968, PBA has developed a distinctive identity centered on its commitment to providing a holistic education that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal character development. The university's mission is rooted in a foundation of Christian principles, which permeate its educational philosophy and campus life. Students at PBA are encouraged to engage deeply with their faith and apply it to their studies, creating a unique atmosphere where spiritual growth complements intellectual inquiry.

The campus is noted for its vibrant and supportive community, where students can participate in various extracurricular activities and service opportunities. PBA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as business, nursing, education, and the arts, ensuring that students can find a path that aligns with their interests and career goals. The university boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and specialized labs, which enhance the learning experience. Notably, PBA is also home to a robust athletic program, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in sports and wellness activities, fostering a balanced lifestyle. The university's location in South Florida provides students access to beautiful beaches and a culturally rich environment, offering a perfect blend of academic pursuits and leisure activities.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention at Palm Beach Atlantic University

The rising trend in tuition costs at Palm Beach Atlantic University over the past decade highlights a significant challenge for prospective students and their families. Starting from $25,532 for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition in 2014, the costs increased to $37,990 by 2024, representing an approximate 48% upsurge. This trend raises concerns about affordability and the accessibility of higher education, as such increases can potentially deter students from enrolling or completing their degrees.

Graduation rates also paint an intriguing picture. The timely graduation rate for undergraduate students fluctuated from 45.67% in 2014 to 50.46% in 2024, indicating a gradual improvement in student success over time. Meanwhile, the 150% graduation rate experienced a significant rise as well, moving from 57.84% in 2014 to 60.63% in 2024. These improvements may reflect the university's efforts to enhance academic support services and foster a more conducive learning environment, which could positively impact student outcomes.

Additionally, retention rates have generally remained stable, with a notable drop from 76.10% in 2018 to 66.95% in 2024. This decline raises concerns as student retention is crucial for maintaining the institution’s reputation and financial stability. A decrease in retention might indicate that students face challenges that could lead to lower satisfaction or unmet expectations.

Furthermore, gender distribution among undergraduate students has remained relatively balanced, with women consistently making up around 63-64% of the student population from 2014 to 2024. This gender ratio could influence campus culture and community dynamics, shaping the university’s environment in significant ways.

Overall, while tuition has increased considerably, the university's efforts toward improving graduation rates are commendable. However, the decline in retention emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in student engagement and support mechanisms to ensure a sustainable and enriching educational experience.

Analysis of Graduates at Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2023

The data from Palm Beach Atlantic University for 2023 reveals notable trends in the number of graduates across various disciplines, particularly in the health and counseling fields. Registered Nursing has emerged as the leading program, with a total of 87 graduates, of which 1 is an international student. This reflects a growing demand for nursing professionals, particularly during a time when healthcare systems worldwide are experiencing unprecedented pressures following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conversely, the Mental Health Counseling program recorded zero graduates, which may indicate a lack of interest or possibly an underdeveloped program. This is concerning given the increasing emphasis on mental health and well-being in society today. Similarly, other fields such as Pharmacy and several arts-related disciplines also recorded no graduates, suggesting that these programs may require reevaluation to better meet the needs and interests of students.

On the graduate level, the data shows 56 graduates in the Master of Mental Health Counseling, which presents a contrast with the zero graduates at the bachelor's level for the same field. This discrepancy might reveal a trend where students are opting for advanced degrees instead of initial undergraduate training in mental health, possibly due to strong job markets for those with higher qualifications.

It's important to further explore why some programs attract significant numbers while others do not. Factors such as job market prospects, program reputation, and curriculum relevance in today's world likely play critical roles in these outcomes. This analysis provides a snapshot of the educational landscape at the university and highlights areas for potential growth and development in academic offerings.

Trends in Admissions and Ranking at Palm Beach Atlantic University

The admissions data for Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a compelling glimpse into the evolving landscape of higher education at this institution. Across the years, a notable fluctuation in enrollment and acceptance rates has emerged. In 2025, the university recorded an acceptance rate of approximately 37.7% for male students and about 38.7% for female students, showcasing a relatively open admissions process. Interestingly, despite the university's efforts to attract a diverse student body, the overall ranking has seen a downward trend in recent years. Specifically, the ranking dropped from 293 in 2020 to 377 in 2025. This decline in ranking could be a matter of concern for prospective students, as university prestige often plays a significant role in college decision-making processes. Furthermore, the number of students enrolled peaked in 2023 at 709, yet the trend shows a decrease in subsequent years. The rise in denial rates—evident in 2024 with 894 students denied admission—suggests that while student interest remains high, the university's selectivity may have increased, potentially impacting future enrollment figures. This information presents a complex picture for Palm Beach Atlantic University. While they might be experiencing an influx of applicants, their ability to maintain a strong ranking and effectively manage acceptance rates will undoubtedly be critical for their reputation moving forward. In the competitive landscape of higher education, balancing admissions and maintaining quality is more important than ever.

Trends in Admission Scores at Palm Beach Atlantic University

The admission scores at Palm Beach Atlantic University have shown noticeable trends over the years, particularly in the SAT and ACT metrics. From 2007 to 2023, we can observe fluctuations in both the number of test-takers and their corresponding scores.

For instance, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores started relatively high at approximately 72% in 2007, but has shown a concerning decline to just 35% by 2023. This dramatic reduction in applicants submitting SAT scores could indicate shifting trends in college admissions, where some institutions are moving towards a test-optional model, reflecting national movements in higher education that emphasize equitable access to college.

The score ranges have also varied throughout the years. The 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for the SAT reading have shown a general increase, suggesting that the profile of admitted students has become more competitive over time. However, there are noticeable dips in the middle years, particularly around 2010, which might reflect wider socioeconomic factors affecting both student preparedness and the overall applicant pool.

In conclusion, while Palm Beach Atlantic University appears to be attracting a competitive pool of applicants in terms of scores, the declining percentages of test submissions could suggest a need for the institution to reassess its admission strategies and possibly adapt to a changing educational landscape that increasingly embraces diverse paths to higher education.

Overview of Student Demographics at Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2024

The student demographic data for Palm Beach Atlantic University in 2024 reveals intriguing insights about the composition and gender ratios of its student body. The total enrollment consists of various categories, including undergraduate freshmen, continuing students, transfer students, and graduate students. A notable feature is the higher proportion of female students across all categories, with undergraduate freshmen exhibiting a female representation of 65.1%, while the figures for continuing, transfer, and graduate students show similar patterns, ranging from 61.6% to 65.8%.

In terms of diversity, the incoming undergraduate freshmen list white students prominently, although the specific statistics are not fully disclosed for some categories. This may reflect a trend seen in many universities where the majority of students belong to a particular demographic, possibly owing to historical enrollment patterns and local community factors.

As universities increasingly aim for greater inclusivity and diversity, it would be beneficial to see more comprehensive data regarding the representation of underrepresented groups, including Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students. The evolving educational landscape calls for institutions to not only reflect diverse populations but also foster an environment that nurtures different cultural perspectives.

Moreover, the male to female ratio across various categories indicates a consistent trend of higher female enrollment, which is aligned with national trends in higher education where women have outnumbered men in recent years. Such demographics may influence campus culture, academic programs, and the overall community atmosphere as educational institutions continue to evolve and adapt.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Palm Beach Atlantic University 2024

The age composition of students at Palm Beach Atlantic University for the year 2024 presents a diverse demographic landscape. The majority of the student body, particularly among undergraduate females and males under 18, reflects a vibrant traditional-age student population. Notably, students under 18 consist of 42% of the total population, indicating a strong influx of younger individuals embarking on their higher education journey.

As we transition into the 18-19 age category, student numbers rise significantly, displaying a 65% share of total enrollment. This pattern suggests that many students are entering university directly after high school, which aligns with national trends observed in many American colleges. The 20-21 age group still maintains a substantial representation, accounting for approximately 19% of total enrollment, yet we see a marked decline in student numbers in older categories.

The representation of non-traditional students aged 25 and older appears notably less with only 21% of the total student population. This decline presents an opportunity for the university to consider strategies to attract more adult learners, as many institutions are increasingly prioritizing inclusive programs for diverse age groups.

Furthermore, the gender distribution within age categories highlights intriguing trends, especially in graduate programs where females outnumber males, particularly in the 22-24 age range. Overall, Palm Beach Atlantic University reflects the prevailing trends in higher education, showcasing a strong commitment to fostering a youthful academic environment while also contemplating the potential for growth in attracting older students.

Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Palm Beach Atlantic University

The international student enrollment data from Palm Beach Atlantic University reveals significant trends and changes over the years. Between 2005 and 2024, the enrollment of international undergraduate students has generally experienced a positive trajectory, culminating in a notable 7.34% representation in 2024. This contrasts sharply with earlier years, such as 2006, when the percentage was just 1.81%. Such growth is indicative of the university's increasing appeal to global students seeking quality education in the United States.

Comparing undergraduate and graduate international student enrollment, both demographics show variation over the years. While students at the graduate level have consistently comprised a smaller percentage, the increase to 13.83% in 2024 reflects an encouraging trend towards greater diversity and a strong appeal of graduate programs at the university. This growth can be attributed to a combination of factors, including academic excellence, evolving recruitment strategies, and changing global circumstances that have made studying abroad more desirable.

Moreover, these trends coincide with a broader shift in higher education, where U.S. institutions are increasingly prioritizing internationalization as part of their strategic goals. The overall increase in the enrollment of both undergraduate and graduate international students at Palm Beach Atlantic University not only enriches the academic environment but also prepares all students for a more interconnected world. As challenges arise, such as changes in immigration policies and global pandemics, it will be crucial for the university to adapt its strategies to continue attracting students from diverse backgrounds.

Here are some notable institutions near Palm Beach Atlantic University:

1. Florida Atlantic University - Ranked 189th in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

2. University of Miami - With a ranking of 63, the University of Miami is a prominent research-focused institution known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs.

3. Florida International University - Ranked 98th, this comprehensive university serves a large and diverse student body, providing a wide array of degrees and research opportunities.

4. Florida State University - With a rank of 54, Florida State University is recognized for its comprehensive programs and vibrant student culture.

5. University of Florida - A prestigious institution ranked 30th nationally, the University of Florida is known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and athletic teams.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational environment in the region, offering various programs and extracurricular opportunities for students.

Crime Trends at Palm Beach Atlantic University

The crime statistics at Palm Beach Atlantic University over the years present a concerning but fluctuating picture of campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, the data indicates a notable variability in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. Notably, the year 2015 stands out with a steep rise to 7.19 incidents per 1,000 students, significantly up from prior years. This spike could correlate with broader societal issues or specific events that warrant further investigation.

After 2015, there seems to be a general downward trend, particularly in 2017 with only 2.07 offenses, indicating possible improvements in campus safety measures or a decrease in incidents. However, the uptick in 2021 with a rate of 6.10 suggests that challenges remain. The recent figures from 2022 and 2023 show a further decline in rates, suggesting a positive trajectory towards safer campus environments.

A closer examination of specific offenses over these years reveals that incidents of gun-related arrests and substance abuse have occurred but seem to have stabilized or reduced significantly in recent years. This could reflect successful safety programs or outreach efforts.

Overall, while the data reflects improvements in some areas, the occasional spikes in certain years underscore the importance of continued vigilance by university officials and communities. Monitoring crime patterns is crucial to effectively address safety concerns and ensure a secure educational environment for all students. For more insights into crime rates, you can refer to the calculation methods here.