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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, Florida · daytonabeach.erau.edu

中文

U.S. News Global 2027

#1388

Down 212 from 2026

Acceptance rate

64.8%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$44,074

$60,968 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

10,629

Student-faculty ratio 18:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

36.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 63.4%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach (ERAU) is a prestigious institution specializing in aviation and aerospace education. Founded in 1925, it has grown to become one of the leading universities in the field, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and innovative curriculum, which emphasizes practical experience and research opportunities. With a strong focus on engineering, aviation, and aerospace studies, students are well-prepared for careers in various high-demand sectors.

The campus is located in Daytona Beach, Florida, benefiting from its proximity to several major aerospace and aviation companies, as well as the Kennedy Space Center. This strategic location provides students with unique internship and employment opportunities, enhancing their educational experience. The university also boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced flight simulators, laboratories, and research centers that support hands-on learning. Additionally, Embry-Riddle's vibrant campus culture fosters a sense of community among students, encouraging participation in numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. With a commitment to excellence and a strong alumni network, ERAU graduates are recognized for their contributions to the aviation and aerospace industries worldwide.

Tuition Trends and Student Dynamics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has witnessed a significant increase in tuition costs over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students rose from approximately $31,334 to $42,304, marking an increase of about 35%. This trend raises concerns about the affordability of higher education, particularly for students from lower-income backgrounds. The rising costs may necessitate increased reliance on financial aid, scholarships, and student loans, potentially leading to greater student debt burdens upon graduation.

Another notable aspect is the growth in student enrollment, particularly at the undergraduate level, which surged from 4,679 students in 2014 to 9,533 in 2023, representing an impressive increase of over 100%. This uptick in enrollment suggests a strong demand for aerospace and aviation education, likely fueled by an expanding job market in these fields. However, it also raises questions about the institution's capacity to maintain a high-quality educational experience amid growing student numbers.

Graduation rates have shown some positive trends, especially for on-time graduation, which increased from approximately 30% in 2013 to about 34% in 2023. This suggests that the university is enhancing its support systems for students, helping more of them to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe. Retention rates have also remained relatively high, hovering around 80% in recent years, indicating that once students enroll, they are generally satisfied with their experience at the university.

The gender ratio among students has remained heavily skewed towards males in both undergraduate and graduate programs, although there have been slight increases in female participation. This demographic trend reflects a broader pattern in STEM fields, where males typically outnumber females. Addressing this imbalance will be crucial for the university as it seeks to promote diversity and inclusion in its programs.

In summary, while Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is thriving in terms of enrollment and graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and gender disparity warrant ongoing attention and strategic initiatives to ensure equitable access to education for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
In Daytona Beach
Nearest international airport
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), about 30 mi
Daytona Beach, Florida
Also known as
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. (President)
Phone
3862266000
City
Daytona Beach, Florida
Address
1 Aerospace Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3900

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
63.9%
Women
67.4%

In 2020: men 61.7%, women 58.6%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

The admission data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach over the years reveals significant trends that reflect both competitiveness and changing dynamics in student demographics. The overall acceptance rates for males and females show a gradual decline, highlighting a more competitive admission process. For instance, the male acceptance rate dropped from approximately 79.7% in 2009 to around 64.5% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate decreased from 81.8% to 65.2% over the same period.
Notably, the enrollment figures have fluctuated, peaking at 1,710 students in 2020, likely influenced by the global pandemic, which saw many students considering alternative educational paths. The rising number of denied applications also indicates that the university is becoming increasingly selective, with denials soaring to over 3,500 in 2023, demonstrating a shift towards a more rigorous admissions process.
Moreover, the data shows an increase in deferred admissions, which could suggest that prospective students are opting for a more cautious approach in light of uncertainties, possibly exacerbated by economic factors or changing perceptions of higher education value. This trend mirrors the broader context of the higher education landscape, where institutions are adapting to shifts in student expectations and global events.
Overall, the evolving admission statistics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University reflect a complex interplay of selectivity, student choice, and external factors, which will likely continue to shape the university's profile in the years to come.

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

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 · 52% submitted SAT, 25% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1160–1360Peer median 1158
ACT composite24–30
SAT Reading
580–670
600700800
SAT Math
580–690
600700800
ACT composite
24–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Scores at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Over the years, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach has demonstrated a notable evolution in the admission scores of its incoming students. The data reveals a general upward trend in the SAT reading and math scores, with the 25th percentile scores rising from 460 in 2007 to 570 in 2023 for reading, and from 580 to 660 for math in the same period. This increase suggests that the university is becoming more selective, attracting higher-achieving students.

In terms of admission data, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has decreased from 83% in 2007 to 58% in 2023, indicating a potential shift towards considering other forms of assessment or a broader evaluation of applicants beyond traditional standardized tests. This trend aligns with a national conversation in higher education about the role of standardized testing and its relevance in assessing student readiness for college.

Interestingly, while the average scores have risen, the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, peaking at 1059 in 2023. This suggests that although fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to be stronger candidates.

Overall, the data reflects broader trends in higher education where institutions are adapting their admission processes, potentially in response to changing societal views on standardized testing. This may result in a more holistic approach to admissions, valuing diverse experiences and backgrounds alongside academic performance.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 6 in 10

11,232 applicants in 2025, 64.8% admitted

7,279 admitted 3,953 not admitted Yield 25.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate484 international (8.3%)
Bachelor's1,644199 international (12.1%)
Master's27993 international (33.3%)
Doctoral3412 international (35.3%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General
624
Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General
401
Mechanical Engineering
108
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other
87
Homeland Security
52
Computer Science
39
Applied Psychology
36
Aerospace Physiology and Medicine
34
Computational Mathematics
29
Air and Space Operations Technology
27

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General · Master's51 (57% international)
  • Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General · Master's48 (35% international)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's47 (28% international)
  • Applied Psychology · Master's28 (14% international)
  • Mechanical Engineering · Master's16 (19% international)
  • Financial Mathematics · Master's12 (58% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

The 2023 graduation data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University highlights significant trends within various fields of study. Notably, the program in Homeland Security stands out with 70 graduates at the bachelor's level, reflecting the growing importance of national security in today's global landscape. This trend is echoed by the Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism program, which, although it only graduated three master's students, emphasizes the university's commitment to addressing contemporary security challenges.

In the engineering sector, the data reveals a robust output across various disciplines. Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering produced a notable number of doctorate graduates, with four individuals earning their degrees. This aligns with the increasing focus on aerospace innovation and technology, which is critical as the industry evolves rapidly with advancements in space exploration and aviation.

Interestingly, interdisciplinary programs such as Data Science and Business Analytics are also gaining traction, with a master's degree awarded in Business Analytics. This reflects a broader educational trend recognizing the need for professionals who can navigate complex data landscapes and drive strategic business decisions.

The data also indicates a significant presence of international students, particularly in certain programs. This international diversity enhances the learning environment and prepares all students to work in increasingly globalized industries. Overall, the graduation data from Embry-Riddle not only demonstrates the university's strengths in aerospace and engineering but also underscores its responsiveness to emerging fields and international dynamics in education.

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 754 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General.$64,220-$102,493
Air Traffic Controller.$64,220-$102,493
Engineeringhas 720 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering, General.-
Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering, General.$78,794-$98,721
Civil Engineering, Other.-
Computer Engineering, General.$72,403
Computer Software Engineering.$72,403
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.$83,609
Engineering Physics/Applied Physics.-
Mechanical Engineering.$75,126-$92,348
Systems Engineering.$117,819
Electrical and Computer Engineering.-
Engineering, Other.-
Businesshas 135 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$70,915-$92,637
Psychology has 69 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Applied Psychology.$48,898-$102,962
Homeland security has 52 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Homeland Security.$50,729
Computer and information sciencehas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.-
Physical scienceshas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Astronomy and Astrophysics, Other.$56,059
Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, General.$45,605
Physics, Other.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computational Mathematics.-
Financial Mathematics.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.$72,282
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution.-
Data Science, General.-
Business Analytics.-
Biologyhas 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Aerospace Physiology and Medicine.-
Military techonologies has 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Space Systems Operations.-
Air and Space Operations Technology.$58,318
Engineering technologieshas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Occupational Safety and Health Technology/Technician.$64,280-$94,393
Communication has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-

Students

11,426 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 72:28 · Freshman retention 88.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (10,629)

White
5,517 · 51.9%
Hispanic
1,495 · 14.1%
Unknown
898 · 8.4%
International
823 · 7.7%
Black
816 · 7.7%
Two or more races
554 · 5.2%
Asian
482 · 4.5%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
24.3%
18–19
33.5%
20–21
27.5%
22–24
10.0%
25 and over
4.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
3.5%
22–24
43.5%
25–29
28.9%
30–34
9.5%
35 and over
14.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach (2023)

The student body at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach reveals intriguing insights into its demographics for the year 2023. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 1,839, with a predominately male population, accounting for 74%. This trend continues among returning undergraduate students, where the male percentage slightly increases to 74.8% among 5,077 students, indicating a strong male presence within the undergraduate population. Furthermore, the transfer student group also skews predominantly male, with 80.3% of the 239 students identifying as male.

In contrast, the graduate student demographic shows a slightly more balanced gender ratio, with males constituting 70.6% of the 768 graduate students. This suggests a consistent trend of male dominance across different levels of undergraduate education, while graduate studies may present a more diversified environment.

The data also highlights the ethnic composition of the students. While specific numbers for each subgroup are not fully available, the significant representation of white students is noteworthy across all categories. This may reflect broader trends in fields such as aerospace and engineering, where white students have traditionally been overrepresented.

Overall, the data suggests that while Embry-Riddle continues to attract a large number of male students, efforts may be needed to enhance diversity and inclusion, especially in attracting female students and individuals from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds. As the university continues to evolve, fostering a more balanced and inclusive atmosphere will be crucial in preparing students for the diverse workforce in the aviation and aerospace industries.

Demographic Analysis of Student Age Composition at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

The age distribution data from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach reveals a youthful and predominantly undergraduate student population. A significant portion of the students, approximately 73% of the total male and nearly 83% of the total female students, falls under the age of 24. This indicates a strong emphasis on attracting younger students, likely aligning with the university's focus on aviation and aerospace education, which often appeals to high school graduates.

The data shows that the largest age group is those aged 18-19, comprising about 40% of male and 57% of female undergraduates. This suggests an effective recruitment strategy targeting recent high school graduates, a trend seen across many universities aiming to fill their programs with fresh talent.

Interestingly, the number of graduate students is relatively low across all age groups, particularly among younger demographics. This could reflect a trend where students enter the workforce directly after their undergraduate studies, especially within the aerospace sector, which is known for its demand for skilled labor. Furthermore, the relatively small numbers of older students, particularly those over 30, indicate that the majority of the student body is likely pursuing their education in a traditional timeline, which might limit the diversity of experiences typically found in graduate programs.

In conclusion, the age composition at Embry-Riddle highlights the university's focus on younger students while also posing potential challenges in attracting a more diverse age demographic, particularly at the graduate level. As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, it may be beneficial for the university to consider strategies to engage non-traditional students and lifelong learners.

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.

Undergraduates7.7%

823 in 2025 · 14.4% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 14.4%2017: 13.3%2018: 12.8%2019: 13.2%2020: 12.3%2021: 9.6%2022: 9.6%2023: 8.9%2024: 8.9%2025: 7.7%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students35.8%

285 in 2025 · 54.7% in 2016

0% 32.5% 65% 2016: 54.7%2017: 53.9%2018: 51.1%2019: 51.5%2020: 49.7%2021: 43.0%2022: 40.6%2023: 38.2%2024: 36.1%2025: 35.8%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach

The data on international student enrollment at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach reveals intriguing trends over the years. In the undergraduate sector, the percentage of international students has shown a fluctuating pattern. For instance, the peak was observed in 2014, where international students constituted 16.01% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage has gradually declined to 8.88% by 2023. This downward trend may reflect broader changes in global student mobility and visa regulations, which can impact how many students choose to study abroad, particularly in the United States.

In contrast, the graduate program has experienced a substantial increase in the number of international students, with a remarkable peak of 54.73% in 2016. Although this proportion has since decreased to 38.15% in 2023, it still indicates a strong presence of international students at the graduate level. This could be indicative of the university's strong reputation in aerospace and engineering fields, which attract students from around the globe.

The overall growth in total student numbers at the university, from 4,518 in 2004 to 9,533 in 2023, coupled with the increasing overall international student presence, underscores the university's expanding appeal. However, the declining percentages of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs might necessitate strategic initiatives to enhance recruitment and retention of international talents, especially in a competitive educational landscape marked by the ongoing impacts of the pandemic and shifts in global education trends.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$60,968

Undergraduate tuition
$44,074
Room and board
$16,894
Graduate tuition
$22,870
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 65%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$415M

Tuition and fees
$269M64.7%
Government grants and contracts
$59.7M14.4%
Investment return
$35.4M8.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$35.4M8.5%
Gifts and private grants
$4.8M1.2%
Sales and services of educational activities
$63K0.0%
Other
$10.9M2.6%

Expenses$307M

Instruction
$125M40.9%
Institutional support
$67.8M22.1%
Student services
$41.4M13.5%
Research
$24.7M8.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$24.6M8.0%
Academic support
$20.6M6.7%
Scholarships
$2.5M0.8%

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.

All faculty
$98,806peers $68,006
Professor
$137,353peers $78,041
Associate professor
$100,390peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$81,376peers $63,827
Instructor
$56,630peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Sunshine State Conference

Sunshine State Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)17295
Lacrosse5329
Rowing3537
Baseball62-
Soccer2927
Basketball1414
Golf1511
Other Sports421
Softball-22
Tennis1111
Volleyball-17
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)16493
Lacrosse4926
Baseball63-
Soccer2828
Rowing2725
Basketball1816
Other Sports720
Golf1511
Softball-23
Tennis138
Volleyball-19
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)158114
Lacrosse3630
Baseball56-
Soccer3026
Rowing2223
Basketball1814
Other Sports722
Golf148
Softball-21
Tennis128
Volleyball-19

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach:

  1. University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.

  2. Florida State University - With a ranking of 53, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and has a vibrant campus life.

  3. University of South Florida - Ranked 89th, USF is recognized for its commitment to innovation and research, particularly in health sciences and engineering.

  4. University of Miami - This prestigious institution ranks 67th and is well-regarded for its programs in business, law, and medicine.

  5. Florida Atlantic University - Ranked 209th, this university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees with a focus on research and community engagement.

  6. University of Central Florida - With a ranking of 124, UCF is one of the largest universities in the U.S. and is known for its innovative programs and diverse student body.

These institutions provide a range of academic options and resources for students in the Daytona Beach area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
245
Drug referrals
24
Stalking
12
Motor vehicle theft
11
Fondling
7
Burglary
7

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

The crime rates at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach exhibit significant fluctuations over the years, highlighting a complex and evolving safety landscape on campus. In 2013, the reported crime rate was 4.41 per 1,000 students, which gradually decreased to its lowest point of 2.06 in 2019. However, a stark rise was observed in 2021, with the rate soaring to 18.19 per 1,000 students, indicating a surge in incidents that year. This spike raises concerns and suggests that the university might have faced unique challenges or incidents that required immediate attention.

Interestingly, the subsequent years show a decline in the crime rate, with figures returning to more manageable levels, such as 3.92 in 2023. Notably, the data reveals a consistent number of arrests related to gun possession, drug-related offenses, and alcohol violations. Such trends are not unique to Embry-Riddle but are reflective of broader societal issues concerning campus safety and crime.

The increase in crimes during 2021 could be linked to several factors, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have affected student behavior and campus dynamics. Universities across the nation have reported similar trends, emphasizing the need for effective crime prevention strategies and community engagement to ensure safety on campuses.

As these statistics are closely monitored, they will help shape future policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing student safety and well-being. It is crucial for educational institutions to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing crime to foster a secure learning environment for all students. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach include Christopher Sembroski (Inspiration4 commercial astronaut), August Pfluger (U.S. Representative from Texas, Air Force officer) and Kenneth S. Wilsbach (24th Chief of Staff of the US Air Force).

More alumni (3, by field)

Politics and law

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.