Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a prestigious public research university known for its strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Established in 1869, Purdue has developed a reputation for its innovative research and cutting-edge facilities, making it a leader in various academic fields. The university's campus is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational facilities, catering to the diverse needs of its students. Purdue's commitment to research is evident through its numerous research centers and partnerships with industries, which provide students with valuable hands-on experience and opportunities for internships.

The university's motto, "Education, Research, Service," encapsulates its core values and mission. Purdue fosters a vibrant campus culture that encourages collaboration, diversity, and community engagement. With a wide array of student organizations and clubs, students can immerse themselves in various interests, from academic pursuits to cultural activities. The university also boasts impressive athletic programs, with the Boilermakers competing in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, promoting school spirit and camaraderie among students. Additionally, Purdue's graduates are highly sought after by employers, thanks to the university's strong focus on practical learning and professional development. With a rich history and a forward-looking vision, Purdue University continues to shape the future leaders of tomorrow.

Key Insights on Purdue University's Data Trends

Purdue University has exhibited notable trends in several key areas, reflecting both its commitment to education and the evolving landscape of higher education. One of the most significant observations is the consistent increase in student enrollment. The number of undergraduate students rose from approximately 30,446 in 2014 to about 38,593 in 2023, indicating a growth of over 26%. This rise suggests that Purdue has become increasingly attractive to prospective students, possibly due to its strong academic programs and reputation.

Another critical aspect is the graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved from approximately 38.1% in 2013 to 59.7% in 2023. This steady increase demonstrates the university’s focus on enhancing student support systems and academic resources to ensure students complete their degrees in a timely manner. Additionally, the 150% graduation rate also saw a positive trend, reflecting improved retention strategies and academic success initiatives.

The retention rate, which measures the percentage of students who continue their education at the institution, remained fairly stable, hovering around 90% across the years. This figure is commendable, as it suggests that students are satisfied with their educational experience at Purdue, further contributing to the institution's attractiveness.

Lastly, the tuition data show a relatively stable tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students over the past decade, remaining around $9,992 for in-state students and $28,794 for out-of-state students. This steadiness in tuition costs, particularly in a time when many universities are experiencing rising tuition fees, positions Purdue as a financially viable option for students.

In conclusion, the trends in enrollment, graduation rates, retention, and tuition suggest that Purdue University is effectively addressing the challenges of higher education, creating an environment conducive to student success while maintaining affordability.

Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Purdue University

The data from Purdue University for 2023 reveals intriguing trends in graduate degrees across various disciplines. Notably, the field of Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods leads with a significant number of master's degree graduates, specifically 356 students, of which 300 are international students. This highlights the university's strong appeal to international scholars in the business domain, reflecting a broader trend where business-related programs attract a diverse student body.

In the engineering category, Computer Engineering and Mechanical Engineering also showcase robust bachelor’s degree outputs, with 319 and 158 graduates respectively. The presence of 95 international students in Computer Engineering suggests that this program is particularly popular among overseas applicants, likely due to the high demand for tech professionals globally. Interestingly, the data does not show any master's or doctoral graduates in these engineering fields, indicating a potential gap in advanced studies or a preference for immediate employment post-bachelor's.

In contrast, the health-related fields, particularly Pharmacy, exhibit a notable number of doctoral graduates, with 144 individuals completing their degrees. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health challenges, underscoring the critical role of pharmacy education in preparing professionals to tackle public health issues.

Overall, the data indicates a strong inclination towards business and engineering disciplines, with a significant international student presence, while also reflecting the growing importance of healthcare education in today's society. These trends could inform future program developments and recruitment strategies at Purdue University.

Commentary on Purdue University's Admission Trends and Rankings

Purdue University has shown a notable trajectory in its rankings and admission rates over the years. The most recent ranking for 2025 places Purdue at 46th in the US News rankings, reflecting a steady improvement from its position in previous years. Specifically, the university has climbed from 66th in 2009 to 46th in 2025, indicating a consistent upward trend. However, this positive shift in ranking contrasts with the declining admission rates, particularly in recent years. The admission rate for male students peaked at approximately 63% in 2021, while female students experienced a higher acceptance rate of 74% in the same year. By 2023, the overall acceptance rate had dropped significantly to about 46%, showcasing the increasing competitiveness of the admissions process. This decline can be attributed to a substantial rise in the number of applicants, which was over 32,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 7,000 in 2009. As institutions continue to adjust their admission strategies and policies, Purdue's experience mirrors a broader trend observed across many universities, where the influx of applications often leads to lower acceptance rates. This phenomenon raises questions about accessibility and equity in higher education, especially as the demographic landscape of college-bound students evolves. Ultimately, while Purdue's ranking has improved, the challenges posed by a highly competitive admissions environment reflect the complexities of maintaining both quality and accessibility in higher education.

Trends in Admissions Data at Purdue University

The admissions data from Purdue University over the years reveals notable trends in test scores and submission rates for standardized tests like the SAT. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak participation rate of 82% in 2007 and a decline to 62% in 2022, followed by a slight recovery to 67% in 2023. This trend may suggest shifting attitudes toward standardized tests, possibly influenced by the increasing number of universities adopting test-optional policies.

In terms of test scores, the data shows a general upward trend in the 25th to 75th percentile ranges for SAT reading and math, indicating that the admitted students are, on average, achieving higher scores over time. For instance, the SAT reading scores rose from a range of 490-600 in 2007 to 600-710 by 2023, reflecting a significant increase in academic preparedness among applicants.

Moreover, the overall number of applicants has seen variability, with a peak of 7,349 in 2021. This could correlate with national trends where more students are applying to colleges, particularly following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which emphasized the importance of higher education.

As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, Purdue University’s data illustrates the increasing competitiveness of the applicant pool, as well as the broader implications of changing policies regarding standardized testing. This evolution presents both challenges and opportunities for prospective students navigating their college admissions journey.

Student Demographics at Purdue University in 2023

The student demographic data from Purdue University for the year 2023 presents a comprehensive overview of the student body composition, showcasing both diversity and gender ratios across different student categories.

Undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant portion of the student population, with a total of 9,447 students. This group exhibits a gender distribution where males account for approximately 55.4% and females 44.6%, highlighting a relatively balanced representation, though slightly favoring males. In contrast, the undergraduate juniors, numbering 27,949, show a higher male representation at 58.4% compared to 41.6% females, indicating a trend that may merit further exploration regarding retention and enrollment strategies.

The data also reveals that transfer students represent a smaller segment of the population, with 1,042 individuals, and maintain a similar gender split as freshmen. Graduate students, totaling 12,935, also reflect a predominantly male demographic at 58.6%, suggesting that males are more likely to pursue advanced degrees at Purdue.

Race and ethnicity breakdowns further enrich this analysis. Although specific ratios for each demographic are not fully disclosed, the inclusion of various ethnicities such as White, Asian, Latina, African American, and international students indicates a commitment to fostering a diverse educational environment. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly prioritizing diversity and inclusion.

Overall, the data paints a picture of a dynamic student body at Purdue University, with gender ratios and ethnic diversity that reflect broader societal trends and challenges in maintaining balance across all student categories.

Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Purdue University

The age distribution of students at Purdue University reflects a notable trend towards younger demographics, particularly among undergraduates. The largest group is students aged 18-19, where nearly 94% of the male undergraduates and approximately 94.5% of the female undergraduates fall into this category. This suggests that the university primarily attracts recent high school graduates, which is a common trend among many institutions of higher education in the United States.

As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers remain significant, with the 20-21 age group also showing a large presence. However, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students aged 22-24 and beyond. This could indicate that many students either complete their undergraduate studies by their early twenties or may be taking longer to finish their degrees.

Interestingly, the graduate student population shows a different age distribution. The data indicates a higher proportion of older students in the 25-29 age range and beyond, particularly among female graduate students. This trend may reflect the increasing number of individuals seeking advanced degrees later in life, possibly as a response to changing job market demands or personal career aspirations.

Moreover, the presence of students aged 30 and older, although smaller, highlights the diversity within the university’s student body. This trend towards older students pursuing higher education aligns with broader societal shifts towards lifelong learning and professional development.

Overall, Purdue University's age distribution underscores a traditional undergraduate demographic while also accommodating a growing number of graduate students who are older and potentially more diverse in their educational and professional experiences. This blend enriches the academic environment, promoting varied perspectives and interactions among students of different ages and backgrounds.

Trends in International Student Demographics at Purdue University

Purdue University has experienced notable fluctuations in its international student demographics over the years. The data reveals a significant increase in the number of international undergraduate students from 2004 to 2010, peaking at approximately 8.69% in 2010. This growth can be attributed to Purdue's efforts to enhance its global reputation and attract talent from around the world.

However, after 2010, there was a noticeable decline in the percentage of international undergraduates, with the proportion dropping to 11.01% by 2023. This trend raises concerns about the impact of various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global perceptions of studying in the U.S., and the competitive landscape of international education. The decline in international undergraduate enrollment may also reflect broader shifts in student preferences, with some students opting for other countries for their higher education.

On the graduate level, the proportion of international students has remained relatively stable, hovering around 39% to 42% over the years. As of 2023, international graduate students accounted for approximately 40.13% of the total graduate population. This stability suggests that Purdue continues to be an attractive destination for graduate students, particularly in STEM fields, which often have strong international representation.

Overall, while Purdue's undergraduate demographic shows fluctuations, the graduate segment remains robust. The university's ability to adapt to changing trends and foster a welcoming environment for international students will be crucial in maintaining its status as a leading institution in higher education.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Purdue University-Main Campus:

1. Wabash College - Ranked 55th in the 2025 US News rankings, Wabash College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on male education.

2. DePauw University - With a ranking of 50, DePauw University offers a liberal arts education and is recognized for its commitment to undergraduate teaching and experiential learning.

3. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - Ranked 33rd, this university is a major public research institution known for its diverse range of programs and vibrant campus life.

4. University of Notre Dame - Holding the 18th spot in the rankings, Notre Dame is renowned for its academic excellence, research initiatives, and strong athletic programs.

5. University of Chicago - Ranked 11th, the University of Chicago is a world-class institution known for its rigorous scholarship, influential faculty, and a strong focus on critical thinking and inquiry.

These institutions not only provide excellent educational opportunities but also contribute to the rich academic environment around Purdue University.

Analysis of Crime Statistics at Purdue University

The crime statistics at Purdue University over the past decade reveal notable trends in campus safety and student behavior. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students has shown fluctuations, with a peak in 2018 at 13.34 incidents and a decline to 8.23 in 2021, reflecting a significant drop during the pandemic. This decline may correlate with reduced campus activity and increased remote learning during that period.

The data indicates a consistent occurrence of arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol misuse. The highest number of gun-related arrests occurred in 2013, suggesting that awareness and enforcement measures may have contributed to a decrease in such incidents in subsequent years. However, it is concerning that the total number of arrests for domestic violence and stalking appears to remain prevalent, highlighting ongoing issues that need to be addressed.

The overall crime rate at Purdue, while fluctuating, remains relatively low compared to national averages for universities. This suggests that Purdue University is generally a safe environment for students, though continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to maintain and improve campus safety.

The trends observed in these statistics can serve as a foundation for further discussions on how universities can implement effective policies and programs to reduce crime, enhance student support services, and promote a culture of safety and responsibility among the student body. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.