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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Rockford University

Rockford, Illinois · www.rockford.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

92.9%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$37,780

$49,200 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

983

Student-faculty ratio 10:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

31.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 40.1%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Rockford University, located in Rockford, Illinois, is known for its commitment to providing a personalized education that emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement. Founded in 1847, the university has a rich history and a diverse student body, with a strong focus on liberal arts education. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Education for a Better World," reflecting its dedication to developing informed and engaged citizens.

The campus environment at Rockford University is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a culture of collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. With state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, the university fosters a conducive atmosphere for both academic and personal growth. Rockford University also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams and clubs, which contribute to a well-rounded student experience. The university's commitment to student success is evident in its comprehensive support services, including academic advising and career counseling, helping graduates transition smoothly into the workforce. Notable alumni have made significant contributions in various fields, further enhancing the university's reputation as a nurturing ground for future leaders.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Rockford University

Rockford University, a private institution, has seen significant changes in several key metrics over the years. One of the most noticeable trends is the increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students grew from $26,710 to $37,000, representing an increase of approximately 38.5%. This rising cost aligns with national trends in higher education, where tuition hikes have outpaced inflation, making affordability a critical issue for prospective students.

Another important aspect is the graduation rates, which reflect the institution's effectiveness in ensuring student success. The on-time graduation rate fluctuated over the years, starting at 33.1% in 2013 and experiencing a low of 20% in 2021 before rising again to 30.6% in 2023. This inconsistency raises questions about student support services and academic resources available to undergraduates, especially during challenging periods, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected many institutions.

Retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 65% from 2015 to 2023. However, the slight decline observed in the most recent year (63.9%) could indicate emerging challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, potentially linked to rising tuition costs and changing student demographics.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shown a gradual shift, with the percentage of male students increasing from approximately 37% in 2014 to nearly 46.5% in 2023. This shift might reflect broader societal changes in gender enrollment patterns in higher education, warranting further exploration into the implications for campus culture and academic programs.

In summary, while Rockford University has demonstrated resilience in maintaining its student population and improving retention, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates pose significant challenges that require strategic attention to ensure long-term success and accessibility for future students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Madison, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), about 60 mi
Rockford, Illinois
Also known as
Rockford University
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Patricia Lynott (President)
Phone
8152264000
City
Rockford, Illinois
Address
5050 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108-2311

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
92.1%
Women
94.1%

In 2020: men 50.0%, women 58.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Rockford University's Admission Trends

The admission data for Rockford University reveals notable trends over the years, particularly regarding acceptance rates for male and female applicants. In 2009, the acceptance rates were relatively high for both genders, with approximately 66% for males and 69% for females. However, a significant decline is observed in the following years, peaking with a low of about 41.8% for males and 43.5% for females in 2011. This trend of decreasing acceptance rates continued until reaching a low point in 2013, where the rates fell below 41% for males and hovered around 39% for females.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers fluctuated, with the highest enrollment recorded in 2021 at 212 students despite the ongoing trend of increasing rejection numbers. The year 2022 saw a notable rebound in acceptance rates, with males at approximately 63.7% and females at around 70.7%. This suggests a potential strategic shift by the university to attract more students amidst competitive pressures in the higher education landscape.
Moreover, the number of denied applications peaked in 2016 and 2017, indicating a more selective admission process during those years. The data also reflects a significant number of deferred admissions, particularly in 2015 and 2016, which could be interpreted as the university’s approach to managing its applicant pool more effectively.
In summary, Rockford University has experienced significant fluctuations in its admission rates and enrollment figures over the years. These trends underscore the dynamic nature of college admissions, influenced by institutional goals, applicant demographics, and broader educational market conditions.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 30% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total850–1070Peer median 1158
ACT composite17–23
SAT Reading
450–535
600700800
SAT Math
400–535
600700800
ACT composite
17–23
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Rockford University

The admission test scores at Rockford University over the years show a fluctuating performance trend among applicants. The SAT reading and math scores have varied significantly, with the 25th percentile starting scores ranging from 363 to 515 and the 75th percentile ending scores fluctuating between 510 and 640. Notably, the years 2011 and 2017 exhibited some of the highest thresholds for both SAT reading and math, indicating a more competitive applicant pool during these periods.

The number of students submitting SAT scores also reflects variability, peaking at 143 in 2021, while the participation rate in terms of percentage has seen substantial differences, from as low as 2% in 2017 to 94% in 2013. This indicates shifts in the applicant pool's testing preferences, perhaps influenced by broader trends in college admissions, including test-optional policies that have gained traction in recent years.

Moreover, the ACT composite scores reveal a similar narrative, with the range of the 25th percentile starting from 19 to 25 and the 75th percentile extending from 24 to 30. The increasing reliance on standardized test scores in admissions processes continues to spark debate about equity and access in higher education.

Overall, these scores and submission statistics indicate that Rockford University is experiencing changes in its applicant demographics and testing trends, which could be reflective of larger national shifts in how students prepare for and approach college admissions. As institutions navigate these changes, the emphasis on holistic review processes may become increasingly vital in identifying deserving candidates.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,721 applicants in 2025, 92.9% admitted

1,599 admitted 122 not admitted Yield 13.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's23221 international (9.1%)
Master's966 international (6.3%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
29
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
29
Computer Science
23
Business Administration and Management, General
17
Criminology
14
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
14
Elementary Education and Teaching
13
Accounting
12
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
9
Art/Art Studies, General
7

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's35 (17% international)
  • Urban Education and Leadership · Master's33 (0% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Reading Teacher Education · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Education, General · Master's4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduates from Rockford University in 2023

The graduation data from Rockford University in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. The Registered Nursing program stands out with a significant number of bachelor's degree graduates, totaling 51. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, as highlighted by ongoing discussions about workforce shortages in the healthcare sector.

In the realm of education, master's programs show notable participation with 35 graduates in the field of Education (Other) and 31 in Business Administration and Management. This suggests a growing trend where individuals are seeking advanced degrees to enhance their qualifications in competitive job markets. The emphasis on advanced education reflects broader national trends, as many professionals pursue higher degrees to stay relevant.

Conversely, certain disciplines such as Computer Science and Psychology had limited graduates, with only 12 and 6 bachelor's degree recipients, respectively. This could indicate either a lack of interest in these fields or perhaps a saturation of the job market, leading students to explore other areas.

Furthermore, the data shows a minimal presence of international students graduating from these programs. For instance, only 4 international graduates were reported in the master's level for Business Administration. This could reflect ongoing challenges in attracting international talent, potentially influenced by visa policies and global events.

Overall, the graduation numbers from Rockford University illustrate the evolving landscape of higher education, where healthcare and business fields dominate, while other areas may need strategic adjustments to attract more students.

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

Educationhas 96 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Multicultural Education.-
Urban Education and Leadership.$72,983
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$43,296-$55,061
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$43,296-$55,061
Secondary Education and Teaching.$43,296-$55,061
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$43,296-$55,061
Reading Teacher Education.-
Businesshas 78 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$58,480-$72,852
Organizational Leadership.$58,480-$72,852
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Health professionshas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$76,273
Computer and information sciencehas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst.-
Computer Science.$46,379
Social sciencehas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminology.-
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Human science has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Development and Family Studies, General.-
Family and Community Services.-
Biologyhas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Psychology has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

1,241 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 65.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (983)

White
408 · 41.5%
Hispanic
225 · 22.9%
Black
173 · 17.6%
International
78 · 7.9%
Two or more races
36 · 3.7%
Asian
29 · 3.0%
Unknown
28 · 2.8%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.3%
18–19
29.3%
20–21
30.2%
22–24
21.8%
25 and over
18.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.4%
22–24
17.4%
25–29
23.6%
30–34
15.9%
35 and over
42.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Rockford University in 2023

The student body at Rockford University in 2023 exhibits a diverse composition across various classifications. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 168 students, with a notable 60.1% identifying as male and 39.9% as female. This gender distribution reflects a common trend in many institutions where male students slightly outnumber female students in the freshman cohort.

In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen category, which encompasses a significantly larger group of 629 students, shows a reverse trend with females constituting 56.1%, while males make up 43.9%. This shift could indicate a growing retention of female students as they progress through their academic journey, potentially driven by supportive campus initiatives aimed at fostering female academic success.

The transfer students' category comprises 111 individuals, with an even greater female predominance at 61.3%. This suggests that transferring to Rockford University may be particularly appealing to women, possibly due to the institution's academic reputation or community environment.

Graduate students, totaling 230, also reflect a gender balance that favors females, with 60.4% identifying as female. This trend of higher female representation in graduate studies is consistent with national patterns where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

Furthermore, the data indicates a rich ethnic diversity among the student population, particularly among freshmen and upperclassmen, though detailed statistics on specific ethnic groups are not fully available for the current year. The presence of a variety of backgrounds contributes to a vibrant campus culture and enhances the educational experience through diverse perspectives.

Overall, Rockford University showcases a dynamic and evolving student demographic landscape that aligns with broader trends in higher education, marked by increasing female representation and a commitment to diversity.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Rockford University in 2023

The age composition of students at Rockford University in 2023 presents an interesting overview of the demographic landscape within the institution. The majority of the student body falls within the traditional college age bracket of 18-24 years, comprising 58.5% of the total male and 72.7% of the total female students. This aligns with national trends where younger students dominate enrollment figures in higher education.

However, as we analyze the data further, it becomes evident that there is a notable presence of non-traditional students. For instance, students aged 25-29 account for a significant portion, with 12.2% of male and 12.7% of female students. This demographic shift reflects a growing trend in higher education, where individuals return to academia later in life, often to advance their careers or change fields.

Interestingly, the representation of graduate students also highlights a commitment to lifelong learning, particularly among the 30-39 age group, indicating that many individuals are pursuing advanced degrees to enhance their professional qualifications. The presence of older students (40 and above) is modest, yet it underscores the diversity in educational paths.

Overall, Rockford University exhibits a balanced mix of traditional and non-traditional student populations, showcasing the evolving landscape of higher education in the United States. This demographic diversity not only enriches the educational experience but also prepares students for a workforce that increasingly values varied perspectives and experiences. The data reflects broader societal trends, emphasizing the importance of education at all stages of life.

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.

Undergraduates7.9%

78 in 2025 · 2.3% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 2.3%2017: 5.9%2018: 5.6%2019: 8.0%2020: 8.7%2021: 10.4%2022: 9.4%2023: 10.0%2024: 8.4%2025: 7.9%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students6.2%

16 in 2025 · 7.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 7.3%2017: 6.6%2018: 4.5%2019: 4.3%2020: 3.6%2021: 3.6%2022: 2.9%2023: 4.3%2024: 4.6%2025: 6.2%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Rockford University

The data concerning international students at Rockford University reveals noteworthy trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has shown a significant increase, especially in the last decade. For instance, in 2011, only 1.27% of undergraduates were international students, but by 2021, this figure surged to 10.40%. This remarkable growth reflects the university's increasing appeal to students from abroad.

The graduate program, however, presents a different picture. Although there were fluctuations, the percentage of international graduate students remained relatively low compared to undergraduates, peaking at 7.27% in 2016. Subsequent years saw this figure decline, culminating in only 4.35% of graduate students being international in 2023. The disparity between undergraduate and graduate international enrollment could indicate various factors, including program availability, recruitment strategies, or shifts in international student preferences.

The overall trends suggest that Rockford University has successfully enhanced its attractiveness to undergraduate international students, potentially due to its academic offerings, support services, and campus environment. In contrast, the challenges faced in attracting graduate students may require further investigation and targeted efforts, especially as the global competition for international talent intensifies.

As universities worldwide adapt to changing dynamics in international education, Rockford University’s evolving enrollment patterns reflect broader trends in the higher education landscape.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$49,200

Undergraduate tuition
$37,780
Room and board
$11,420
Graduate tuition
$14,060
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 47%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$33.9M

Tuition and fees
$17.3M51.0%
Government grants and contracts
$7.7M22.6%
Investment return
$3.7M10.9%
Gifts and private grants
$2.8M8.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.0M6.0%
Other
$464K1.4%

Expenses$29.0M

Instruction
$11.3M38.9%
Academic support
$6.2M21.2%
Student services
$5.2M17.9%
Institutional support
$3.6M12.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.8M9.6%

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
$59,924peers $68,006
Professor
$62,712peers $78,041
Associate professor
$66,658peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$56,956peers $63,827
Lecturer
$50,325peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference

Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football101-
Baseball54-
Soccer3320
Basketball2713
Volleyball1120
Softball-26
Other Sports-20
Cross Country56
Golf-10
Bowling-7
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football97-
Basketball3420
Soccer3017
Baseball40-
Volleyball1417
Softball-22
Cross Country75
Golf-8
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football90-
Soccer3816
Baseball52-
Basketball2620
Volleyball1416
Softball-17
Cross Country95
Golf-3

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Rockford University:

  1. University of Wisconsin-Madison - Ranked 35th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Northwestern University - With a remarkable rank of 9, Northwestern is recognized for its academic excellence and diverse range of programs, making it one of the top universities in the country.

  3. University of Chicago - Ranked 12th nationally, the University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty, particularly in the fields of economics and social sciences.

  4. Loyola University Chicago - This university, ranked 142, offers a solid liberal arts education with a commitment to social justice and community service.

  5. Wheaton College - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 56th, Wheaton is known for its Christian values and strong academic programs.

  6. DePaul University - With a rank of 151, DePaul is recognized for its diverse student body and wide array of programs, particularly in business and arts.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Rockford University.

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
31
Domestic violence
6
Rape
3
Drug referrals
3
Stalking
3
Fondling
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Campus Crime Trends at Rockford University

The crime statistics from Rockford University present a notable trend in campus safety over the past decade. The data reveals a significant fluctuation in the crime rates, particularly with a steep decline observed in 2021, where the average rate per 1,000 students dropped to just 2.36. This figure is remarkably lower compared to the previous years, indicating a potential improvement in campus security measures or a change in student behavior.

However, the subsequent years show a slight increase in crime rates, with averages of 6.01 in 2022 and 7.96 in 2023. The variation in these statistics could be attributed to several factors, including changes in university policy, law enforcement practices, and the overall environment on campus, which may have been influenced by external societal factors such as the pandemic.

When examining specific categories of crime, there is a noticeable absence of violent crimes such as murder or sexual assault in recent years, which is a positive sign for campus safety. Nonetheless, offenses related to drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents remain a concern, as they can impact the university's community and student well-being.

Overall, while the data shows an encouraging trend towards reduced crime rates in recent years, the slight uptick in 2022 and 2023 serves as a reminder that continuous efforts must be made to maintain and further improve campus safety. Universities should consider implementing educational programs and support systems to address substance abuse and promote a safer environment for all students. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Rockford University include Jane Addams (Social reformer, settlement activist and peace activist), Ellen Gates Starr (Social reformer, co-founder of Hull House) and Mary Esther Murtfeldt (Entomologist and botanist).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

  • Helen Douglas Mankin 1896–1956

    Lawyer, second woman to represent Georgia in US House

  • Anna E. Nicholes 1865–1917

    Chicago social reformer and suffragist

Science and academia

Arts and media

  • Genevieve Foster 1893–1979

    Children's writer and illustrator

    Also attended: University of Wisconsin-Madison

  • Yvonne D'Arle 1898–1977

    French-born soprano at the Metropolitan Opera

Other fields

  • Julia Elizabeth Duddley 1840–1906

    American missionary

  • Belle L. Pettigrew 1839–1912

    Educator and missionary

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.