Saint Louis University (SLU), founded in 1818, is one of the oldest universities west of the Mississippi River and holds a distinguished reputation for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. The university's motto, "All Things for the Greater Glory of God," reflects its Jesuit heritage, emphasizing values such as faith, service, and social justice. This mission creates a rich humanistic environment, where students engage in various community service initiatives, enriching their educational experience while making meaningful contributions to society.

Academically, Saint Louis University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including health sciences, business, engineering, and liberal arts. The university maintains a robust faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship for students. SLU is particularly renowned for its research programs, especially in the fields of medicine and health-related studies, with state-of-the-art facilities that support innovative learning. The university also fosters a vibrant campus culture, with numerous extracurricular activities, sports teams, and student organizations that promote a well-rounded student life. Graduates from SLU are well-prepared to enter the workforce, as the institution emphasizes practical experience and internships, contributing to high employment rates among its alumni.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University, a private institution, has shown noteworthy trends in several key metrics over the past decade. One of the most striking aspects is the significant increase in tuition costs, especially for undergraduate students. In just ten years, tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduates has surged from approximately $36,726 in 2014 to $53,244 in 2024, representing a remarkable rise of about 45%. This steep increase in tuition raises concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students amidst a broader trend of rising higher education costs in the United States.

In contrast to the escalating tuition, the student enrollment figures for undergraduates have been fluctuating with an overall decline observed in recent years. The institution had approximately 12,567 undergraduate students in 2014, but this number dropped to around 10,519 in 2024. This decline could highlight the impact of rising costs on enrollment, suggesting that potential students may be deterred by the affordability issue or seeking alternatives.

Another salient element is the graduation rates which have shown a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate increased from about 61% in 2014 to approximately 73% in 2024. This improvement is encouraging and indicates that the university might have effective support systems in place that help students complete their degrees in a timely manner. The 150% graduation rate also reflects positively, showcasing that most students eventually complete their degrees, although with extended timelines.

Finally, the retention rate of undergraduate students is another critical metric, showing a slight dip from 87.8% in 2015 to 86.6% in 2023. While the retention remains relatively high, any downward trend warrants attention, as maintaining student engagement and support is essential for institutions to foster a thriving academic community.

In summary, while Saint Louis University enjoys improved graduation rates, the surrounding context of increasing tuition costs and declining enrollment poses challenges that need to be addressed to ensure both current and prospective students find the university a viable option for their education.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Saint Louis University in 2023

The graduation data from Saint Louis University in 2023 reveals intriguing trends across various academic fields. Notably, in the health and medical disciplines, there is a pronounced emphasis on advanced degrees, particularly at the doctoral level. For example, both law and medicine have impressive figures, with 183 and 180 doctorate graduates, respectively. This aligns with the ongoing demand for highly trained professionals in healthcare and legal sectors, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where institutions prioritize graduate programs that cater to professionalized fields.

Interestingly, while disciplines such as exercise science and psychology show a modest number of bachelor's degree graduates, these numbers are significantly overshadowed by the doctorate in law and medicine. This might suggest that while undergraduate programs are crucial, many students are opting to pursue their studies further, favoring the highly specialized knowledge that doctoral degrees offer.

Moreover, the near absence of international students graduating from undergraduate programs in law and medicine may highlight barriers faced by international students in these specific fields, perhaps relating to the rigor of the programs or visa-related challenges. However, the presence of international students graduating at the master's level in psychology and exercise science indicates a more welcoming environment for graduate studies.

This graduation data encapsulates not only the academic strengths of Saint Louis University but also the evolving landscape of higher education in the United States, wherein doctoral degrees are increasingly regarded as essential for career advancement in competitive fields like healthcare and law.

Analysis of Admission Trends at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University has experienced a fluctuating trajectory in its U.S. News ranking over the years, with a noticeable decline leading to its current position of 105th in 2025. This sustained lower rank, reflecting a gradual descent from the 84th position in 2010, may be a point of concern for both potential students and alumni, indicating challenges in reputation and competitiveness within the higher education landscape. Examining admission rates reveals an interesting pattern: the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown variability. In contrast to the significantly higher acceptance rates seen in earlier years, 2023 marked a notable peak at 83.2% for males and 87.3% for females, pointing towards a less selective admission approach during recent cycles. The significant increase in acceptances could be a strategic response to evolving market demands or shifts in enrollment goals. The total enrollment figures have also risen and fluctuated, reaching 1,665 in 2023 despite increased numbers of applications and denials. Notably, a significant number of deferments highlights potential challenges faced by the institution in managing its applicant pool effectively. Overall, while the higher acceptance rates might attract more candidates, the university's struggles to maintain a top-tier ranking may require a reassessment of strategic priorities to improve its reputation and academic standing. The data suggests a critical need for initiatives to enhance the academic and extracurricular appeal of the university as it navigates an increasingly competitive educational environment.

Trends in Admission Scores at Saint Louis University

The admission data from Saint Louis University over the years reveals significant trends regarding SAT and ACT scores, as well as the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. Since 2007, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of students submitting SAT scores—dropping from 586, which accounted for 37% of admitted students, to just 145, representing 9% in 2023. This decline indicates a broader trend in higher education where standardized tests are becoming less central to college admissions processes, influenced partly by the rise of test-optional policies across many universities.

Moreover, the score ranges have shown a gradual increase in the higher threshold. For example, the 25th percentile for SAT reading scores rose from 530 in 2007 to 610 by 2023, reflecting the growing competitiveness of applicants. Conversely, the scores at the 75th percentile have also increased, indicating that top-performing students are consistently achieving higher scores over time.

Additionally, the data illustrates the fluctuating reliance on ACT scores, which has also seen varied submission rates. With the overall trend pointing towards a decrease in standardized testing submissions, this may push universities to reconsider how they assess candidates holistically, putting greater emphasis on other aspects such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.

This transition mirrors a significant cultural shift within academia, focusing on equity and access to education rather than strictly standardized metrics. However, more data will be needed to understand the longer-term implications of these trends on both admission standards and academic performance among incoming students.

Student Demographics at Saint Louis University: A 2024 Overview

The 2024 student demographics data from Saint Louis University reveals insights into the composition of its academic community. There are a total of 10,827 students, categorized into different groups including undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate sophomores, undergraduate transfer students, and graduate students.

Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable gender distribution, with 37.9% being male and 62.1% female. This trend continues in the undergraduate sophomores where males represent 40%, while females account for 60%. Interestingly, undergraduate transfer students show a slightly higher male representation at 47.1% compared to 52.9% female. The graduate student body also reflects a balanced gender representation, with 46.4% male and 53.6% female.

The racial demographics further illuminate the diversity at Saint Louis University. The majority of students identify as White, with significant representation from other racial and ethnic groups, including Asian, Latin, Pacific Islander, and African American communities, alongside international students.

This distribution mirrors national trends in higher education, where there has been a gradual increase in female enrollment across various academic institutions. Additionally, the presence of a diverse student body indicates a progressive approach towards inclusivity and representation within academia.

Overall, the data points to a vibrant and diverse community at Saint Louis University, reflecting broader societal shifts towards gender and racial equity in educational institutions. As the university navigates the complexities of the contemporary educational landscape, its commitment to fostering a diverse environment is commendable and essential for student success.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Saint Louis University

The student age composition at Saint Louis University reveals a diverse demographic, with a notable concentration of younger students aged under 24. Among the under-18 category, there are over 3,000 total students, equally split between male and female undergraduate demographics. The ages 18-19 show a significant enrollment as well, with female undergraduate students outnumbering their male counterparts.

As we move into the 20-21 age range, the numbers begin to shift. The total number of students in this group is approximately 3,220, with females making up a substantial majority among undergraduates. Interestingly, the graduate male population is introduced here, with 190 enrolled, indicating an increase in educational pursuit as students transition into higher education.

Beyond the age of 22, a progressive decline in student numbers is observed. The cohorts aged 22-24 experience a significant jump in the number of graduate students, hinting at an academically ambitious environment. By comparing the older age categories—25-29 and 30-34—it's evident that while graduate education draws older students back into academia, the overall number declines sharply, likely due to the challenges of balancing education with increased life responsibilities.

Interestingly, the demographic shifts moderate significantly in the 50-64 and beyond category, where enrollment numbers drop dramatically, emphasizing that continuous education in later years is less common in this university. This data not only provides insight into the university's current demographic structure but also reflects broader educational trends seen across American universities, where younger students dominate enrollment and those returning to education later in life remain relatively few.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Saint Louis University

Over the years, Saint Louis University has experienced notable fluctuations in its international student enrollment across both undergraduate and graduate programs. The data reveals that the percentage of international undergraduate students has increased from 1.61% in 2005 to 3.10% in 2024. While this increase may seem modest, it reflects the university's ongoing efforts to attract a more diverse student body.

In contrast, the graduate program has shown a much more significant growth in the international student percentage, soaring from 5.05% in 2005 to an impressive 42.48% in 2024. The stark rise in graduate international enrollment can be attributed to various factors, including the university's academic reputation and the overall global demand for advanced education. This trend aligns with national patterns where U.S. graduate programs have seen an increasing number of international applicants, particularly from countries like India and China.

However, it is essential to note the challenges that may affect these numbers in the coming years. Events such as changes in immigration policies, geopolitical tensions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to play pivotal roles in international students' decision-making processes. Competitive universities in the U.S. are continually trying to enhance their global standing, promoting programs and opportunities that attract international talent.

Overall, while both undergraduate and graduate international enrollment at Saint Louis University shows encouraging trends, the growth in the graduate sector is particularly striking and will be crucial in shaping the university’s international profile in the years ahead.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Saint Louis University:

1. Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 21st in the 2025 US News ranking, this comprehensive university is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and strong research initiatives.

2. University of Missouri-St Louis - Holding the 244th position in the rankings, this comprehensive university offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs.

3. Maryville University of Saint Louis - Ranked 266th in the 2025 US News, Maryville is a comprehensive university known for its student-centered approach and a wide array of degree programs.

4. Principia College - A liberal arts college, ranked 66th, known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development.

5. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale - This comprehensive university is ranked 288th and offers a range of programs across multiple disciplines.

6. Missouri University of Science and Technology - With a ranking of 196, this university is recognized for its engineering and technology programs.

7. University of Missouri-Columbia - Ranking 109th, this university is known for its comprehensive educational offerings and research facilities.

8. Illinois State University - At 220th in the rankings, it is recognized for its strong undergraduate programs.

9. Bradley University - This comprehensive university ranks 189th and is known for its supportive community and diverse academic options.

10. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - A prominent comprehensive university ranked 33rd, known for its vast resources and research opportunities.

These institutions contribute significantly to the vibrant academic landscape in the vicinity of Saint Louis University.

Analysis of Campus Crime Data at Saint Louis University

The crime data from Saint Louis University over the past decade reflects a fluctuating yet concerning trend regarding campus safety. Starting in 2013, the average number of documented offenses per 1,000 students showed a relatively low rate of 7.80, which gradually escalated to a peak of 18.94 in 2020. This increase indicates a significant rise in incidents, particularly in the areas of drug arrests and alcohol-related offenses.

In 2017, the university recorded its highest average of 13.54, highlighting a pivotal year where the safety atmosphere on campus became alarming. Additionally, the figures for violent crimes such as assault and robbery demonstrate that while the overall crime rate has been subject to fluctuations, there remains a notable proportion attributed to these serious offenses.

It is important to note the 2020 spike, which can be correlated with broader societal unrest alongside public health crises, leading to heightened stress and potentially increased criminal behavior. Following this peak, the numbers in 2021 show a promising decline, but there remain concerns as reportings haven't fully reverted to earlier levels.

This ongoing evolution of campus crime statistics emphasizes the necessity for continuous monitoring and intervention strategies to ensure student safety. Educational institutions must engage in preventative measures and foster a culture of awareness and support within the community. As such, collaboration with local law enforcement and mental health resources could play a vital role in mitigating future incidents.

The rising crime rates warrant further investigation and collective action from both the university and its stakeholders. For those interested in calculating crime rates, more details can be found here: crime rate calculation.