Saint Louis University (SLU), founded in 1818, is one of the oldest universities in the United States and is located in St. Louis, Missouri. As a Jesuit institution, SLU emphasizes a holistic education that fosters intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth. The university's motto, "The greater glory of God," reflects its commitment to social justice, community service, and ethical leadership. SLU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 14 schools and colleges, with particular strengths in health sciences, business, law, and engineering. The university is known for its rigorous academic standards and a strong emphasis on research, providing students with numerous opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects alongside experienced faculty members.

The campus of Saint Louis University is not only architecturally beautiful but also rich in resources and facilities that enhance student life. The university boasts state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational centers that support both academic and extracurricular activities. SLU has a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and athletics, fostering a sense of community and belonging among students. The university's athletics teams, known as the Billikens, compete in NCAA Division I, promoting school spirit and camaraderie. Additionally, SLU is strategically located in the heart of St. Louis, providing students with access to a dynamic urban environment filled with cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities. With a strong focus on service and community engagement, SLU graduates are well-prepared for successful careers and are often recognized for their contributions to society.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Enrollment

Over the years, Saint Louis University has witnessed a significant increase in tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, rising from $36,726 in 2014 to $53,244 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 45%, which is quite substantial, especially considering the financial burden it places on students and families. As tuition continues to climb, it raises concerns about accessibility and affordability of higher education, especially in a time when student debt is at an all-time high.

In contrast to rising tuition, the university's graduation rates have shown a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students increased from about 61.3% in 2013 to approximately 72.7% in 2023. This improvement reflects the university's commitment to student success and retention, which is further supported by a relatively stable retention rate hovering around 87% to 91% over the years. These figures indicate that once students enroll, they are likely to remain and complete their degrees, which is a positive sign for the institution.

However, the overall number of enrolled students has seen a decline from 12,513 in 2013 to 10,662 in 2023 for undergraduates. This drop may be attributed to the rising costs of tuition, potentially deterring prospective students from applying or enrolling. The decrease in undergraduate enrollment could have long-term implications on the university's financial health and diversity of its student body.

Overall, while Saint Louis University has managed to improve its graduation rates and maintain retention, the rising tuition costs and declining enrollment present challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the institution remains competitive and accessible to future students.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Saint Louis University

The graduation data from Saint Louis University in 2023 reveals significant trends in the fields of study. Notably, the health and medical disciplines dominate the doctorate level, with 183 graduates in Law and 180 in Medicine. These figures indicate a growing emphasis on advanced degrees in vital sectors that contribute to society's welfare.

Interestingly, there is a stark contrast in the number of international students graduating in these fields. The limited number of international students obtaining advanced degrees—2 in Law and 11 in Medicine—suggests potential barriers for foreign students in these rigorous programs. This is noteworthy given the increasing globalization of education, where universities often seek to attract international talent.

In terms of undergraduate education, Exercise Science and Kinesiology stands out with 102 graduates, alongside 91 graduates in General Psychology. These figures suggest a rising interest in health and wellness-related fields, possibly influenced by the growing public awareness of fitness and mental health issues.

Moreover, the absence of graduates in other disciplines, particularly in the arts and humanities, raises questions about the demand and value placed on these fields in the current educational landscape. As universities adapt to job market needs, there may be a risk of underrepresentation of diverse academic pursuits, which are essential for a well-rounded education.

Overall, the data reflects a clear prioritization of health-related fields at Saint Louis University, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in fostering a diverse academic environment for students from various backgrounds.

Analysis of Saint Louis University Admission Trends and Rankings

Saint Louis University has experienced fluctuations in its rankings and admission rates over the years, culminating in a ranking of 105th for the year 2025. This position reflects a continued trend of challenges faced by the university in maintaining a stable ranking amidst increasing competition among higher education institutions. In terms of admission rates, the data reveals a notable decline in acceptance rates from the late 2000s to the mid-2010s, with male acceptance rates dropping to approximately 55.4% in 2019 and 55.7% in 2021. However, there has been a significant rebound in the recent years, with acceptance rates climbing to around 83.2% for males and 87.3% for females in 2023. This increase may indicate a strategic shift in the university's admissions policy, possibly aimed at enhancing enrollment numbers after experiencing declines in prior years. The number of students enrolled has also varied, peaking at 1,902 in 2020. This peak could be attributed to universities adapting to changing circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced prospective students' choices. Overall, while the university's ranking has plateaued, the changes in admission rates and enrollment figures suggest a proactive approach to attracting a diverse student body. As institutions continue to navigate the complexities of higher education, Saint Louis University’s experience underscores the importance of adapting to evolving educational landscapes to maintain relevance and appeal.

Trends in Admission Scores at Saint Louis University

The admission data from Saint Louis University over the years presents a notable trend in the academic performance of applicants, as reflected in standardized test scores. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has decreased significantly from 2007 to 2023, dropping from 37% to just 9%. This decline raises questions about the shifting landscape of college admissions, particularly in light of the increasing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of scores, there has been a gradual increase in the 25th percentile scores for both reading and mathematics sections of the SAT, suggesting that the university is attracting a higher caliber of applicants over time. For instance, the 25th percentile reading score rose from 530 in 2007 to 620 in 2022, reflecting a long-term upward trend. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also shown improvement, indicating that top applicants are achieving higher scores.

Interestingly, the data for ACT scores reveals a similar pattern, with the 25th and 75th percentile scores trending upward, suggesting that despite fewer students submitting scores, those who do are performing better academically. This duality presents a complex narrative for prospective students—while the overall number of test-takers is decreasing, the quality of those who do submit scores is on the rise.

Overall, these trends highlight a pivotal moment in college admissions, where traditional metrics are evolving. As universities adapt to changing applicant behaviors and societal attitudes towards standardized testing, it will be crucial for institutions like Saint Louis University to maintain their standards while also considering the diverse backgrounds of their applicants. Such adaptability will be essential in fostering an inclusive and academically robust student body.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Louis University in 2023

The student demographic data from Saint Louis University reveals significant insights into the composition and diversity of its student body in 2023. The undergraduate freshmen, accounting for 1,665 students, demonstrate a gender distribution of 38.4% male and 61.6% female, indicating a strong female representation in this cohort. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, where females still outnumber males at 61.1%, with a total of 5,164 students.

Interestingly, transfer students show a more balanced gender ratio, with 46.1% male and 53.9% female among 503 students. This shift might reflect the different backgrounds and experiences that transfer students bring to the university. Graduate students, totaling 5,093, also present a gender distribution that skews towards females at 58.5%, suggesting that graduate programs may be particularly appealing to women.

Moreover, the data indicates a diverse racial composition among the student body. For instance, the majority of undergraduates identify as white, but the presence of students from various ethnic backgrounds underscores the university's commitment to inclusivity. While specific data on other racial groups is not mentioned, the overall demographic trends highlight the challenges and opportunities that institutions face in fostering a diverse academic environment.

As educational institutions increasingly prioritize diversity, the patterns observed at Saint Louis University reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where female enrollment surpasses male enrollment in many programs. This evolution requires continuous efforts from the university to ensure that all students, regardless of gender or background, receive equitable support and resources to thrive academically and socially.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Saint Louis University in 2023

The age distribution of students at Saint Louis University in 2023 presents a diverse and dynamic academic environment. A significant proportion of the student body is concentrated in the younger age brackets, particularly those under 24 years old, which aligns with national trends in higher education where traditional college-age students (18-24) make up the majority. In this case, students aged 18-19 represent the largest group, with over 2,000 female and nearly 1,125 male students, showcasing the appeal of undergraduate programs to this demographic.

As we examine the age groups, a noticeable decline in enrollment is observed as students progress beyond their twenties. For instance, the number of students aged 25-29 decreases to just over 900, with even fewer in the 30-34 and older categories. This trend may indicate that many students opt to complete their education relatively quickly or transition to the workforce, reflecting broader economic conditions where immediate employment opportunities can seem more favorable than prolonged education.

Interestingly, the graduate student population, while smaller, shows a more balanced gender representation, especially in the 22-24 age range and beyond, indicating that older students return to academia for advanced degrees, often driven by career aspirations or the necessity of additional qualifications in a competitive job market.

This demographic insight is essential for understanding the university's environment and for tailoring academic programs and support services that cater to the varying needs of its diverse student body. As higher education continues to evolve, institutions like Saint Louis University will need to adapt to these changing demographics to foster an inclusive and supportive learning atmosphere.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Saint Louis University

The data reveals significant fluctuations in the international student population at Saint Louis University over the years. In the early years, such as 2004, the university had a modest number of international undergraduates, accounting for only 1.67% of the total undergraduate population. However, this figure saw a remarkable increase, peaking at 5.47% in 2010, which indicates a growing interest from international students during that period.

Interestingly, the trend appears to have reversed after 2010, as the percentage of international undergraduates declined significantly, reaching a low of 2.58% in 2023. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where various external factors, including immigration policies and global economic conditions, have influenced international student mobility.

On the graduate level, the proportion of international students has seen a more consistent upward trajectory, particularly notable in 2023, where they constituted 20.20% of the graduate population. This stark contrast highlights a growing preference among international students for graduate programs, possibly due to the perceived value of advanced degrees in the global job market.

Overall, while the university has experienced some challenges in attracting international undergraduates, the growth in the graduate sector demonstrates an opportunity for Saint Louis University to bolster its appeal to this demographic. By enhancing support services and promoting its graduate programs effectively, the university could potentially reverse the undergraduate trend and leverage its strengths in graduate education to attract more international students in the coming years.

Here are some notable schools surrounding Saint Louis University:

1. Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 21st in 2025 US News, it is a prestigious comprehensive university known for its strong emphasis on research and a diverse range of programs.

2. University of Missouri-St Louis - This comprehensive university ranks 244th and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, focusing on community engagement and practical education.

3. Maryville University of Saint Louis - Ranked 266th, Maryville is a comprehensive university that offers a wide array of degree programs and is known for its commitment to student success.

4. Principia College - A liberal arts college ranked 66th, Principia emphasizes a holistic education grounded in Christian Science values, fostering both academic and personal growth.

5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - As a leading comprehensive university ranked 33rd, it is renowned for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape of the Saint Louis area.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Saint Louis University

The crime rates at Saint Louis University have shown a concerning trend over the years from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students has steadily increased, peaking at 18.94 in 2020 before slightly declining in subsequent years. This rise in crime rates, particularly in drug and alcohol-related arrests, reflects a broader issue faced by many universities across the United States, where campus safety is a growing concern.

The data indicates a significant spike in arrests related to weapon possession and drug offenses, suggesting an environment that may be increasingly influenced by substance abuse and violence. The peak in 2018, with an average of 17.27 offenses per 1,000 students, may correlate with national trends regarding college campuses experiencing higher rates of drug and alcohol abuse during that period.

Furthermore, the drop in crime rates observed in 2021 and 2022 could be attributed to increased safety measures and awareness programs implemented by the university. However, the slight uptick in 2023 suggests that ongoing vigilance is necessary to maintain campus safety and ensure students feel secure.

Overall, while some years have shown improvements, the fluctuating crime rates necessitate continuous efforts to address these issues, including community education, support services for students struggling with substance abuse, and enhanced campus security measures. It is crucial for institutions like Saint Louis University to prioritize student safety and wellbeing amidst these challenges. For more information on crime rate calculations, visit: Crime Rate Calculation Method.