Dominican University of California
Acceptance rate
83.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$52,161
$68,352 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,114
Student-faculty ratio 8:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
72.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 78.9%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Dominican University of California, located in San Rafael, California, is a private liberal arts university known for its vibrant academic environment and commitment to social justice. Founded in 1890 by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, the university emphasizes a holistic approach to education, combining rigorous academics with a strong focus on community service and ethical leadership. The university’s motto, "Veritas" (Truth), reflects its dedication to fostering an intellectual and ethical understanding among its students. This mission is not only present in the curriculum but also in the various community engagement programs that encourage students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
The campus itself is a picturesque environment, nestled in the Marin County hills, offering students a serene place to study and grow. With state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, labs, and a library, Dominican University provides an enriching learning experience. The university is also known for its small class sizes, which allow for personalized attention and mentorship from faculty members. The faculty at Dominican are not just educators but also active professionals in their fields, ensuring that students receive current and relevant knowledge. In addition to its strong academic programs, Dominican boasts a vibrant student life with various clubs, organizations, and athletic opportunities, fostering a well-rounded college experience. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion creates a welcoming atmosphere for students from all backgrounds, enriching the cultural tapestry of the campus community.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Dominican University of California
Dominican University of California, a private institution, has demonstrated notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a consistent increase, rising from $40,600 in 2014 to $50,666 in 2024, reflecting a 24.5% increase over the decade. This trend aligns with the broader national context where higher education costs continue to escalate, placing a financial burden on students and families.
In terms of graduation rates, the university has seen a positive trajectory in the timely graduation of undergraduate students. The percentage of students graduating on time rose from approximately 43.1% in 2013 to about 62.1% in 2023. This 19% increase indicates improved academic support and student engagement strategies, contributing to higher success rates. Likewise, the graduation rate within 150% of the expected time also improved, suggesting that the university is effectively retaining students through to completion.
Retention rates have remained relatively high, although there was a dip in 2022, with about 80.8% of students returning for their second year. However, this number rebounded to approximately 85.2% in 2023. Retention is critical, as it not only impacts graduation rates but also reflects student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness.
Moreover, the gender ratio among undergraduates has experienced fluctuations, with female students consistently outnumbering their male counterparts, comprising around 72% of the undergraduate population in recent years. This trend is indicative of broader societal changes in educational enrollment patterns.
Overall, Dominican University's increasing tuition aligns with improving graduation rates and relatively stable retention figures, showcasing a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes amidst rising costs.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- San Francisco, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), about 25 mi
- Also known as
- DUofC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Nicola Pitchford (President)
- Phone
- 4154574440
- City
- San Rafael, California
- Address
- 50 Acacia Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901-2298
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 90.8%, women 91.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Dominican University of California
The admission data from Dominican University of California presents an intriguing picture of the acceptance landscape over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated significantly, reflecting broader trends in higher education admissions across the United States.
In the early years of the data, such as 2009 and 2010, the acceptance rates for male students hovered around 46.6% while female acceptance rates were slightly higher at 55.1%. However, as we move towards the later years, the data reveals a dramatic increase in acceptance rates, peaking at 90.9% for males and 91.5% for females in 2020. This surge can be attributed to various factors, such as changes in university enrollment strategies and possibly a response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many institutions adapting to ensure student retention and enrollment.
Furthermore, the number of enrolled students has also varied, with a notable decrease in denial rates in more recent years. For instance, in 2022, only 140 applicants were denied admission, which is a stark contrast to the higher numbers recorded in earlier years. This trend might suggest that the university has become more inclusive, potentially aiming to create a diverse student body.
Overall, Dominican University of California appears to be navigating the complexities of higher education admissions effectively, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming students while adapting to the changing educational landscape. This data could serve as a valuable resource for prospective students seeking to understand their chances of admission and for researchers analyzing trends in university admissions.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Business School3 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Scores at Dominican University of California
The admissions data from Dominican University of California over the years reveals notable trends in standardized testing, particularly in SAT and ACT scores. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a gradual increase in both the lower and upper quartile scores for SAT reading, with a significant rise from 443 to 540 for the 25th percentile, and from 550 to 630 for the 75th percentile. This upward trend may indicate a more competitive applicant pool, as students are achieving higher scores on average.
The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak of 93% in 2007 and a notable decline to just 4% by 2023. This dramatic decrease could reflect a broader national trend where colleges are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. Such policies aim to diversify the applicant pool and reduce barriers for students from various backgrounds.
Additionally, the number of students submitting ACT scores has also faced a decline, echoing the trend observed with SAT submissions. This shift suggests a changing landscape in higher education admissions, where holistic review processes are becoming the norm, allowing institutions to consider a wider range of student attributes beyond just test scores.
Overall, as Dominican University of California adapts to these changes, it will be interesting to see how these trends influence future admissions strategies and the profiles of incoming students. The focus on academic preparedness and potential, rather than standardized test performance alone, could create a richer and more diverse educational environment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,006 applicants in 2025, 83.5% admitted
1,675 admitted 331 not admitted Yield 12.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's302 (100% international)
- Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's58 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's51 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's51 (6% international)
- Physician Assistant · Master's34 (0% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's25 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Dominican University of California
The graduation data from Dominican University of California for 2023 reveals significant trends across various fields of study, with a notable emphasis on health-related programs. Registered Nursing emerges as a prominent discipline, producing 120 graduates, with an additional international student contributing to this number. Similarly, Occupational Therapy and Physician Assistant programs also reflect the university's commitment to healthcare education, with multiple graduates in these areas, highlighting the growing demand for qualified health professionals in today's job market.
In contrast, the business and management sector has a considerable presence, particularly at the master's level, with a total of 346 graduates in various business-related fields. This aligns with national trends that show an increase in business program enrollments, likely driven by the evolving marketplace that prizes adaptive and strategic thinking skills among graduates.
It's interesting to note that the university also has a modest representation of international students across most programs, particularly at the master's level in business and health fields, which indicates a diverse and global educational environment. The focus on interdisciplinary studies is also apparent, although specific numbers are low, suggesting potential for growth in this area.
Overall, the data reflects a strong alignment with workforce needs, particularly in health and business sectors, while also showcasing the university's efforts to attract a diverse student body. As industries evolve, Dominican University appears well-positioned to adapt and respond to educational demands in these critical fields.
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $60,503 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $60,503 | |||
| Business Statistics. | - | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | |||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Physician Assistant. | $144,500 | |||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | |||
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | $81,307 | |||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $81,307 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $128,516 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $41,148 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | - | |||
| Performance and Sport Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $53,182 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | $88,983 | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | |||
| Dance, General. | - | |||
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - | |||
| Social Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
Students
1,900 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 28:72 · Freshman retention 85.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 829
- First-year undergraduates 212
- Graduate students 786
- Transfers and others 73
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,114)
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Dominican University of California Students in 2023
The student demographics at Dominican University of California in 2023 reveal a diverse composition across various categories. The data indicates that among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 217 students, with a notable gender disparity where 23% are male and 77% are female. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent with broader trends observed in many higher education institutions across the United States, reflecting a growing female presence in academia.
Undergraduate upperclassmen represent the largest group, with 835 students, maintaining a similar gender ratio with 28.6% male and 71.4% female. This suggests that the university continues to attract a significant number of female students as they progress through their academic journey. The undergraduate transfer students, though smaller in number at 87, also exhibit a majority female population, with 31% male and 69% female.
Graduate students number 738, with a gender ratio of 28.7% male and 71.3% female, reinforcing the trend of female predominance in graduate education. The composition of students from various ethnic backgrounds, particularly the white demographic, is noteworthy, although detailed statistics on the specific ethnic breakdowns remain incomplete.
Overall, the data reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion at Dominican University, aligning with national trends of an increasing number of female students in higher education. As educational institutions aim to create equitable environments, the gender ratios and ethnic diversity will be crucial areas for ongoing evaluation and development.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Dominican University of California in 2023
The age distribution of students at Dominican University of California reveals a diverse and vibrant academic community. The data shows a significant concentration of students aged 18-21, with undergraduates representing the majority. Specifically, 108 male and 319 female undergraduates fall within the 18-19 age group, highlighting the university's appeal to traditional college-age students. This trend continues in the 20-21 age category, where there are 113 male and 293 female undergraduates, reinforcing the notion that many students are pursuing their degrees shortly after high school.
As students age, the numbers begin to shift, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 age brackets. Here, we see a notable presence of graduate students, with 39 males and 92 females aged 22-24, and a peak in female graduate students (164) in the 25-29 category. This indicates that the university is not only attracting younger students but also catering to those seeking advanced degrees later in life, which aligns with the increasing trend of lifelong learning and professional development.
Interestingly, the data suggests a decrease in enrollment among students older than 30, with numbers dwindling significantly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups. This may reflect broader societal trends, such as financial constraints or family responsibilities that can limit the ability to pursue higher education at older ages.
Overall, the age composition at Dominican University illustrates a strong foundation of youth engagement, while also accommodating the needs of adult learners, thereby fostering a rich and inclusive educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
30 in 2025 · 1.9% in 2016
20 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Dominican University of California
The data on international student enrollment at Dominican University of California reveals significant trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has experienced a notable decline, reaching a low of 0.81% in 2019. This downward trajectory may reflect broader national trends in international student enrollment, influenced by factors such as visa regulations, global political climates, and competition from other countries offering education.
In contrast, the graduate student population has shown a remarkable increase in the last few years. The percentage of international graduate students surged to an impressive 32.52% in 2023, a significant rise compared to earlier years. This change could be attributed to the university's evolving programs, outreach efforts, and the growing global demand for postgraduate education, especially in specialized fields.
The stark contrast between the undergraduate and graduate statistics suggests a potential shift in the university's attractiveness to international students. While the undergraduate enrollment has been declining, the graduate programs seem to be gaining traction among international applicants. This may also indicate a growing recognition of the university's strengths in certain academic areas.
Overall, Dominican University of California is seeing a diversification in its international student body, particularly at the graduate level. As the global landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be essential for the university to adapt its strategies to attract and retain international talent across all levels of study.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$68,352
- Undergraduate tuition
- $52,161
- Room and board
- $16,191
- Graduate tuition
- $21,071
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 21%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$63.4M
Expenses$64.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Pacific West Conference
Pacific West Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 49 | 28 |
| Soccer | 38 | 34 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 14 | 20 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 6 | 7 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 53 | 32 |
| Soccer | 36 | 33 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 29 | 31 |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 8 | 9 |
| Tennis | - | 12 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 41 | 38 |
| Soccer | 37 | 38 |
| Basketball | 14 | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| Tennis | - | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of San FranciscoSan Francisco · 14.5 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley · 15.7 mi
U.S. News #20
-
San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco · 18.1 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Stanford UniversityStanford · 42.5 mi
U.S. News #5
-
Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara · 53.8 mi
U.S. News #55
-
University of California-DavisDavis · 56.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of the PacificStockton · 65.3 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of California-Santa CruzSanta Cruz · 72.5 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of California-MercedMerced · 121.8 mi
U.S. News #69
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Dominican University of California:
-
Stanford University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Stanford is a prestigious institution known for its cutting-edge research and beautiful campus located in Stanford, California.
-
University of California-Berkeley - With a rank of 15, UC Berkeley is renowned for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. It is a leader in various fields, including science, engineering, and the humanities.
-
University of California-Los Angeles - Another top-tier institution, UCLA is ranked 15th and offers a wide range of programs and a diverse student body. It is known for its commitment to research and community engagement.
-
University of California-Davis - Ranked 28th, UC Davis is recognized for its strong focus on agriculture and environmental sciences, as well as its veterinary program.
-
University of San Francisco - This university is ranked 115th and is known for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to social justice.
-
Santa Clara University - With a rank of 60, Santa Clara is a Jesuit institution that emphasizes ethics and social responsibility in its education.
-
California State University-East Bay - Ranked 280th, this university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, catering to a diverse student population.
These institutions provide a wealth of educational opportunities and are well-regarded both nationally and internationally.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Crime Rates at Dominican University of California
The crime data from Dominican University of California over the past decade reveals a significant downward trend in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. Starting from a high of 17.13 in 2013, the average crime rate has consistently declined, reaching an all-time low of 1.49 in 2020. This reduction in crime rates can be attributed to various factors, including enhanced campus security measures, increased awareness of student safety, and possibly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to decreased campus activity.
In reviewing the breakdown of crime types, it's noteworthy that incidents of violence, such as assaults and domestic violence, have shown a marked decline. The absence of gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses in recent years is particularly commendable, reflecting a safer campus environment for students.
The data for 2021 and 2022 indicates slight fluctuations, with a small increase in crime rates, which could be a result of students returning to campus post-pandemic. However, the overall trend remains positive, suggesting that the university's efforts to foster a safe learning environment are yielding results.
Continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential to maintain this downward trend in crime rates. Regular assessments and community engagement can further enhance safety initiatives on campus. For those interested in understanding crime rates, a useful resource for calculation methods can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Dominican University of California include Hannah Stocking (Comedian and internet personality), Chiu Yi-ying (Taiwanese politician and legislator) and Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawānanakoa (Native Hawaiian heiress and philanthropist).
-
Hannah Stocking 1992–
Comedian and internet personality
-
Chiu Yi-ying 1971–
Taiwanese politician and legislator
-
Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawānanakoa 1926–2022
Native Hawaiian heiress and philanthropist
-
Yen Kuan-heng 1977–
Taiwanese politician and legislator
-
Killian Larson 1991–
Former basketball player, led NCAA Division I in rebounds
-
Mary Norbert Körte 1934–2022
Beat movement poet and former Catholic sister
-
Troy Murphy Jr. 2002–
Professional basketball player
-
Angela Salinas 1953–
Retired US Marine Corps major general
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.