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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

Prescott, Arizona · prescott.erau.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

76.6%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$43,974

$58,902 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

3,229

Student-faculty ratio 17:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

48.1%

4-year; 6-year rate 70.6%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott, located in Prescott, Arizona, is a distinguished institution specializing in aviation and aerospace education. Established in 1970, the Prescott campus is renowned for its strong emphasis on hands-on learning and practical experience, which equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving fields of aviation, aerospace engineering, and related industries. The university's motto, "The World of Aviation and Aerospace," perfectly encapsulates its commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in these domains.

The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, flight training centers, and simulation technologies, ensuring students have access to the latest tools and resources in their field of study. Additionally, the university boasts a diverse and accomplished faculty, many of whom have extensive industry experience and academic credentials, contributing to a rich learning environment. The vibrant campus culture is characterized by a strong sense of community, with various student organizations and extracurricular activities that promote collaboration and personal growth. Graduates of Embry-Riddle-Prescott are highly sought after in the job market, with many securing positions in leading aerospace companies and government agencies, making it a premier choice for aspiring aviation professionals.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

Over the past decade, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott has seen a significant rise in tuition costs, with in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition increasing from approximately $31,034 in 2014 to a projected $42,204 in 2024. This represents an increase of nearly 36% over ten years. Such a steep rise in tuition can be concerning for prospective students and their families, as it may lead to increased student debt and financial strain. This trend is reflective of a broader national pattern where college tuition continues to outpace inflation, placing significant pressure on students to secure financial aid or scholarships.

In terms of student outcomes, the university's graduation rates have shown some fluctuation. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates dipped to around 32% in 2019, before rebounding to approximately 38% in 2023. While this increase is promising, the rates still suggest that nearly two-thirds of students are not completing their degrees within the standard timeframe, which may indicate challenges in student support or academic preparedness.

Retention rates, however, have remained relatively stable, hovering around 77% to 87% from 2013 to 2023. This suggests that once students enroll at Embry-Riddle, they are generally satisfied with their experience and choose to continue their studies. High retention rates are essential for institutions as they reflect student satisfaction and can lead to improved graduation rates over time.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has been fairly consistent, with an average of about 17 students per faculty member. This ratio is crucial as it can affect the quality of education students receive. A lower ratio typically allows for more personalized attention and support, which can enhance learning experiences and contribute to higher retention and graduation rates.

In summary, while tuition costs continue to rise, the university's commitment to maintaining a stable retention rate and improving graduation outcomes is commendable. Addressing the challenges associated with high tuition and fluctuating graduation rates will be essential for the university in attracting and retaining students in the competitive higher education landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Phoenix, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), about 90 mi
Prescott, Arizona
Also known as
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. (President)
Phone
9287776600
City
Prescott, Arizona
Address
3700 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ 86301-3720

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
77.4%
Women
76.1%

In 2020: men 66.4%, women 64.2%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

The admission data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in the admission rates and the university's ranking. Examining the data from 2009 to 2023, we see a fluctuating pattern in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. The male acceptance rate started at approximately 85.3% in 2009 but showed a notable decline, dropping to about 68.5% in 2023. Similarly, the female acceptance rate experienced a decrease from around 89.9% to approximately 67.0% over the same period.
The total number of enrolled students increased initially, reaching a peak of 756 in 2023 after varying numbers in previous years. However, the number of denied applicants surged, particularly in 2019 and 2020, with denials exceeding 1,200, highlighting the growing selectivity of the university. This trend may reflect broader patterns in higher education where institutions are becoming more competitive, particularly in specialized fields like aerospace and aviation.
Moreover, it is worth noting that the university's ranking fluctuated during this period, which may further influence its attractiveness to potential students. The increasing number of deferrals also suggests that many applicants are choosing to postpone their admission, possibly due to uncertainties in the job market or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education.
Overall, these trends indicate a complex landscape for prospective students, as they navigate an increasingly selective admission process while considering the university's standing in the broader educational context.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 30% submitted SAT, 24% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1140–1370Peer median 1220
ACT composite24–29
SAT Reading
580–680
600700800
SAT Math
560–690
600700800
ACT composite
24–29
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

The admission data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reveals significant trends in standardized test scores over the years. Notably, the SAT reading and math scores have shown a gradual increase, with the 25th percentile scores rising from 470 in 2007 to 580 in 2023. Meanwhile, the 75th percentile scores have also climbed, indicating that the overall caliber of admitted students has improved.

On the other hand, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has decreased significantly. For instance, in 2007, 79% of admitted students submitted their SAT scores, while this figure dropped to just 36% in 2023. This decline could be indicative of a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.

This shift raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions and the emphasis on holistic review processes that consider a wider array of student qualifications beyond standardized tests. It also reflects the ongoing debate over the fairness and relevance of standardized testing in evaluating student potential. As more universities move away from requiring standardized tests, it will be interesting to see how this impacts student demographics and academic performance at institutions like Embry-Riddle.

Overall, while the quality of admitted students appears to be on the rise, the declining reliance on standardized test scores suggests a transformative period in college admissions, one that acknowledges diverse pathways to academic success.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

4,141 applicants in 2025, 76.6% admitted

3,171 admitted 970 not admitted Yield 23.6%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's62742 international (6.7%)
Master's154 international (26.7%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General
197
Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General
132
Mechanical Engineering
62
International Relations and Affairs
61
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
42
Physics, Other
18
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other
15
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
13
Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation
13
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation
11

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General · Master's11 (36% international)
  • Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism · Master's4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

The graduation data for 2023 from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reveals significant insights into student demographics and program popularity. Notably, the Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering program stands out with 147 graduates, of which 4% are international students. This reflects the university's strong reputation in aerospace disciplines, attracting both domestic and international students, which is crucial given the industry's global nature and the growing demand for skilled professionals.

In contrast, the Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology program also shows a healthy number of graduates, totaling 143, with a higher percentage of international students at approximately 12.6%. This aligns with current trends where aviation fields are seeing increasing interest, partly due to the recovery of the aviation industry post-pandemic and heightened awareness of global connectivity.

Interestingly, programs like Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism and International Relations also produce a small number of graduates, indicating a niche interest but potentially reflecting the growing importance of cybersecurity and global affairs in today's world. The lack of Ph.D. graduates in the technical programs suggests a potential gap in advanced research opportunities, which could be an area for future program development.

Overall, the data showcases Embry-Riddle's strength in aerospace and engineering disciplines, while also highlighting the emerging importance of cybersecurity and international studies. The university's ability to attract international students is a positive sign for its global outreach and commitment to a diverse educational environment, crucial for preparing students for a competitive job market.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Transportation has 218 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General.$64,220-$102,493
Air Traffic Controller.$64,220-$102,493
Engineeringhas 209 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General.$78,794
Computer Engineering, General.$72,403
Computer Software Engineering.$72,403
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.$83,609
Mechanical Engineering.$75,126
Social sciencehas 61 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International Relations and Affairs.$55,968
Computer and information sciencehas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulation.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Homeland security has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism.$58,252-$112,694
Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation.$58,252-$112,694
Forensic Science and Technology.$58,252-$112,694
Physical scienceshas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Astronomy.$56,059
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General.$45,605
Physics, Other.-
Businesshas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$70,915
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Psychology has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Industrial and Organizational Psychology.$48,898
Forensic Psychology.$48,898
Applied Psychology.$48,898
Biologyhas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Data Science, General.-

Students

3,264 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 72:28 · Freshman retention 82.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,229)

White
1,743 · 54.0%
Hispanic
510 · 15.8%
Two or more races
302 · 9.4%
International
266 · 8.2%
Asian
213 · 6.6%
Unknown
85 · 2.6%
Black
77 · 2.4%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.9%
18–19
39.7%
20–21
37.3%
22–24
13.9%
25 and over
7.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
8.6%
22–24
28.6%
25–29
22.9%
30–34
25.7%
35 and over
14.3%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott in 2023

The student demographics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reveal intriguing trends and highlights for the academic year 2023. Notably, the undergraduate freshman population numbers 756, with a significant male representation at 70%, compared to 30% female students. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, where males make up 73% of the 2,256 students, while female students account for 27%.

Furthermore, the data indicates a substantial male dominance in the transfer student category, where 82.4% of the 102 students are male. This pattern suggests a strong male interest in aerospace and aviation fields, which traditionally have seen lower female participation. The graduate student representation is relatively smaller, with only 42 students, where 69% are male and 31% female, still reflecting a male-oriented trend.

In examining the racial and ethnic breakdown, while specific detailed statistics from the junior and graduate categories are not provided, the freshman cohort shows a diverse composition, with white students representing a significant portion. This demographic diversity is crucial in preparing students for a globalized workforce and fostering an inclusive educational environment.

As higher education institutions strive for gender equality and inclusivity, these figures highlight the need for targeted initiatives to attract and retain female students, especially in STEM fields. The ongoing efforts to promote diversity in aviation and aerospace will be essential in shaping a more balanced and representative future in these industries.

Age Demographics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

The age distribution of students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reveals some interesting trends and insights into the university's demographic landscape. A significant portion of the student body, approximately 72% of all undergraduate males and around 57% of undergraduate females, falls within the 18-19 age range. This suggests that the university attracts a large number of traditional college-age students, which is typical for most undergraduate programs.

As we move into the 20-21 age category, the numbers remain substantial, with about 56% of male undergraduates and 48% of female undergraduates still within this range. This trend indicates a strong retention of students in the early stages of their college experience.

Interestingly, the representation of graduate students begins to emerge in the 22-24 age group, where there are a few males and females, showcasing an increasing diversity in age as students pursue advanced degrees. However, as the age brackets increase, particularly those above 25, the numbers drop significantly, indicating a smaller pool of older students. For example, only about 14% of male undergraduates and 6% of female undergraduates are aged 25-29.

Overall, the data presents a youthful, vibrant academic community, with traditional-aged students predominating. This demographic trend may reflect broader societal patterns where younger individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately following high school, particularly in specialized fields like aviation and aerospace. This pattern could also be influenced by the growing need for skilled professionals in the aviation industry, as seen in recent news highlighting workforce shortages in aviation-related sectors.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates8.2%

266 in 2025 · 9.6% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 9.6%2017: 7.5%2018: 6.5%2019: 6.5%2020: 6.9%2021: 7.3%2022: 8.1%2023: 9.1%2024: 8.5%2025: 8.2%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students20.0%

7 in 2025 · 20.0% in 2016

0% 22.5% 45% 2016: 20.0%2017: 19.4%2018: 10.5%2019: 16.0%2020: 19.2%2021: 23.3%2022: 39.5%2023: 35.7%2024: 30.6%2025: 20.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

The data on international students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has shown a gradual increase, rising from just 33 students in 2004 to 285 in 2023. This represents an increase in the international undergraduate population, with the percentage rising from 2.02% to 9.13%. Such growth reflects the university's commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive educational environment, which is increasingly appealing to students from around the globe.

In contrast, the graduate international student numbers show more fluctuations. The percentage of international graduate students peaked significantly in 2022 at 39.47%, indicating a strong interest in advanced degrees from international candidates. However, the overall number of graduate students remains relatively lower compared to their undergraduate counterparts, which can be attributed to the specialized nature of graduate programs in aerospace and related fields that often attract a more niche audience.

The increasing participation of international students aligns with broader trends in higher education, where institutions are recognizing the value of a diverse student body in fostering global perspectives. As the global job market becomes more interconnected, universities like Embry-Riddle are well-positioned to equip their students with the necessary skills and cultural awareness to thrive. Overall, the data suggests a positive trajectory for international enrollment, benefiting both the university and its students by promoting cultural exchange and enhancing the learning experience.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$58,902

Undergraduate tuition
$43,974
Room and board
$14,928
Graduate tuition
$22,770
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 49%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$144M

Tuition and fees
$109M75.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.9M9.0%
Investment return
$12.1M8.4%
Gifts and private grants
$1.5M1.1%
Government grants and contracts
$1.3M0.9%
Sales and services of educational activities
$342K0.2%
Other
$6.8M4.8%

Expenses$116M

Instruction
$54.7M47.1%
Institutional support
$20.5M17.7%
Student services
$15.4M13.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$11.2M9.7%
Academic support
$7.6M6.5%
Research
$5.8M5.0%
Scholarships
$943K0.8%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$90,709peers $65,931
Professor
$119,267peers $77,501
Associate professor
$99,389peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$80,125peers $61,725
Instructor
$69,152peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Golden State Athletic Conference

Golden State Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Soccer3434
Baseball41-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2218
Basketball1412
Wrestling22-
Softball-19
Golf98
Volleyball-16
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Soccer2935
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)1922
Baseball37-
Basketball1113
Softball-22
Wrestling17-
Volleyball-15
Golf86
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Soccer3030
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2522
Baseball34-
Basketball1014
Softball-23
Wrestling21-
Golf97
Volleyball-12

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott:

  1. University of Arizona - Ranked 115 in 2024, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of programs and is known for its research opportunities and vibrant campus life.

  2. Arizona State University Campus Immersion - With a ranking of 105, ASU is a large public university renowned for its innovation and diverse academic offerings.

  3. Northern Arizona University - Holding a rank of 249, this comprehensive university focuses on student success and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  4. University of California-Riverside - Ranked 76, UCR is known for its research initiatives and commitment to social mobility, providing students with a diverse and inclusive environment.

  5. California State University-Fullerton - With a ranking of 133, CSUF offers a broad selection of degree programs and is recognized for its excellent faculty and student services.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
151
Drug referrals
7
Stalking
5
Fondling
2
Rape
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

The crime data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in criminal activities on and near the campus. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate per 1,000 students showed significant variations, with a notable spike in 2022, reaching 11.79 incidents per 1,000 students, which is the highest recorded rate during this period. This increase in crime could be indicative of underlying issues such as increased enrollment, changes in campus security policies, or broader societal trends affecting student behavior.

When examining specific crime categories, it is essential to highlight that arrests related to gun possession and drug offenses appear to contribute to the overall crime statistics. The data from 2022 suggests an urgent need for the university to enhance safety measures and support services for students. The context of rising crime rates in educational institutions across the country, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, further underscores the need for proactive measures.

The university's administration should consider implementing community engagement programs and better support systems to address the issues leading to these crimes. Understanding the root causes is vital for creating a safer environment for students. Additionally, it is crucial for the university to maintain transparency with its community regarding crime statistics, ensuring that students and their families feel informed and secure.

For those interested in understanding how to interpret crime rates effectively, a comprehensive guide on calculating these rates can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.