University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
Acceptance rate
96.0%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$36,460
$48,332 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,567
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
45.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 54.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Saint Francis (USF) in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a private Catholic university known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, community service, and the development of ethical leadership. Established in 1890, USF has a rich history and is rooted in the Franciscan values of respect, compassion, and service to others. The university's mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that encourages students to engage in lifelong learning and become responsible citizens in their communities.
USF offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including arts, sciences, business, and health professions. The university is particularly noted for its strong nursing and health science programs, which prepare students for successful careers in a growing healthcare sector. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and labs, a comprehensive library, and recreational facilities that support a vibrant student life. Additionally, USF promotes a strong sense of community through various student organizations, service projects, and athletic programs. The university's sports teams, known as the Cougars, participate in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. Overall, the University of Saint Francis cultivates an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to excel academically, develop personally, and serve their communities.
Analysis of Tuition Trends and Student Dynamics
The data reveals a significant upward trend in tuition costs at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne over the past decade. Specifically, undergraduate tuition has increased from approximately $24,920 in 2014 to $35,420 in 2024, marking a staggering rise of over 42%. This relentless increase in tuition fees raises concerns about affordability and accessibility to higher education, especially as many families are already strained by economic uncertainties exacerbated by recent global events. The tuition for graduate programs also saw a notable escalation, with in-state tuition for graduate students jumping from $16,095 to $20,646, representing a 28% increase.
In parallel to rising tuition, undergraduate enrollment has demonstrated a concerning decline, dropping from about 1,978 students in 2013 to 1,576 in 2023. This trend may indicate that higher costs are deterring potential students, particularly in a competitive educational landscape where many institutions are also raising tuition. Furthermore, the retention rate has fluctuated, peaking at around 74% in 2019 before declining to 68% in 2023. This decline in retention could be tied to financial pressures, as students may struggle to continue their education amid rising costs.
Another critical observation is the gender ratio among undergraduate students, which shows a significant female majority, especially in recent years. The proportion of female undergraduate students increased from approximately 70% in 2013 to around 66% in 2023, suggesting a slight shift but still highlighting the dominance of women in the student body. These trends in gender and enrollment dynamics could impact the university's future strategies in recruitment and program offerings.
Overall, the interplay between rising costs, declining enrollment, and varying retention rates highlights significant challenges for the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne that need to be addressed to ensure long-term sustainability and student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Toledo, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- University of Saint Francis of Fort Wayne, Indiana, University of Saint Francis, Saint Francis College, University of St. Francis-Fort Wayne, University of St Francis-Fort Wayne, USF
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Lance Richey (President)
- Phone
- 2603997700
- City
- Fort Wayne, Indiana
- Address
- 2701 Spring St, Fort Wayne, IN 46808-3994
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 94.1%, women 97.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
The admission data from the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. In the early years, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants were notably lower, hovering around 47% to 53%. However, from 2015 onward, there has been a remarkable shift, with acceptance rates soaring to nearly 99% in some years. This dramatic increase can be attributed to various factors, including changes in university policies, a potential increase in available resources, or a strategic shift to attract a larger student body.
The enrollment figures have also shown fluctuations, with a peak in 2021 when 404 students were enrolled. Interestingly, despite the increase in acceptance rates, the number of students denied admission remained relatively low in the most recent years, indicating that the university may be striving to maintain an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Moreover, the data suggests a consistent trend of a higher acceptance rate for female applicants compared to their male counterparts, which raises questions about the university's recruitment strategies and gender balance initiatives.
Overall, the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne's growing acceptance rates and varying enrollment numbers reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on inclusivity and adaptability in a competitive landscape. As the educational environment continues to evolve, it will be interesting to observe how these trends will impact the university's reputation and academic integrity in the coming years.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
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 · 79% submitted SAT, 8% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
Over the years, the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne has exhibited notable trends in standardized test scores for admitted students. The data reveals fluctuations in both SAT and ACT scores, indicating a dynamic admission landscape. For instance, the SAT reading scores for the 25th percentile have varied between 420 and 480, while the 75th percentile scores range from 530 to 590 over the years. This variation may reflect changes in applicant preparedness or shifts in the university's admission criteria.
The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has generally been high, with a peak of 85% in 2015. However, there has been a sharp decline in the number of students submitting scores in recent years, dropping to 49% in 2023. This trend could be indicative of a broader national movement towards test-optional policies, which many institutions have adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing debates about the fairness and efficacy of standardized testing.
Moreover, the data reveals that the average scores of admitted students have shown some improvement, particularly in the SAT reading and mathematics sections, suggesting that the university may be attracting a more academically prepared cohort. However, the dip in submission rates could potentially impact future admissions dynamics, as reliance on standardized test scores continues to evolve.
Overall, the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne's admission data reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly reconsidering the role of standardized tests in the admissions process. As universities adapt to these changes, it will be interesting to see how this affects future applicant pools and institutional standards.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
2,008 applicants in 2025, 96.0% admitted
1,927 admitted 81 not admitted Yield 21.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physician Assistant · Master's24 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's18 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's15 (0% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's11 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's8 (0% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's7 (14% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
The graduation data from the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne for 2023 reveals notable trends across various disciplines. The health and medical fields stand out prominently, with Registered Nursing leading the pack with 103 graduates, which indicates a robust interest in nursing amidst the ongoing global health challenges. This is further supported by additional programs such as Physician Assistant and Nursing Practice, showcasing the university’s strong focus on healthcare education.
Education also plays a significant role, particularly with the Special Education and Teaching program producing 37 graduates. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of specialized education, especially in today's diverse learning environments. However, it is interesting to note that while programs in education are producing graduates, many of these fields show limited international representation, suggesting that local students might be more inclined to pursue these paths.
Conversely, programs in business and the arts show a mix of outcomes. While Business Administration has produced graduates, the numbers remain lower compared to healthcare and education. Moreover, the arts disciplines, such as Digital Arts and Design and Visual Communications, are attracting some graduates, but they may not be as competitive in terms of enrollment compared to more traditional fields like nursing and education.
The data also indicates a need for further development in certain areas, particularly in master's and doctoral programs, where many disciplines report no graduates at these levels. As the job market continues to evolve, particularly in technology and healthcare, expanding advanced degree offerings may be essential for meeting future workforce demands. Overall, the graduation trends at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne highlight a commitment to health and education while indicating areas for growth in business and advanced studies.
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 | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | $34,028 | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $74,314 | ||||
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $39,267 | ||||
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $58,498-$109,035 | ||||
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | $58,498-$109,035 | ||||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $58,498-$109,035 | ||||
| Physician Assistant. | $58,498-$109,035 | ||||
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technology/Technician. | $58,498-$109,035 | ||||
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician. | - | ||||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||||
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $71,560-$256,609 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $71,560-$256,609 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $71,560-$256,609 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $51,323 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $46,771-$49,984 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $46,771-$49,984 | ||||
| Online Educator/Online Teaching. | $46,771-$49,984 | ||||
| Art Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $77,144 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $77,144 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | ||||
| Insurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | ||||
| Dance, General. | - | ||||
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | $35,749 | ||||
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | $35,749 | ||||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | ||||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $29,837 | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $29,837 | ||||
| Music Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nutrition Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||||
| Public Relations/Image Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | ||||
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,763 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 70.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,006
- First-year undergraduates 411
- Graduate students 196
- Transfers and others 150
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,567)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at the University of Saint Francis - Fort Wayne in 2023
The student body at the University of Saint Francis - Fort Wayne in 2023 showcases a diverse composition across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen, totaling 366, exhibit a notable gender distribution with 42.1% males and 57.9% females, indicating a healthy representation of women in the freshman class. This trend continues among undergraduate upperclassmen, where females represent an even larger majority at 69.0%, while males account for only 31.0%.
The numbers for transfer students also reflect this gender disparity, with 68.5% being female and 31.5% male. This consistent pattern across the undergraduate levels suggests a growing trend of female enrollment, aligning with national statistics that have shown an increase in female participation in higher education in recent years.
At the graduate level, the gender distribution slightly shifts, with males making up 26.3% and females 73.7%. This suggests that women are particularly well-represented in advanced studies, which could be attributed to various factors, including the increasing number of women pursuing graduate education.
The racial and ethnic breakdown of these populations, while not fully detailed, is crucial in understanding the overall diversity at the institution. The predominance of white students across all categories highlights an area for potential growth in recruitment efforts for underrepresented minorities.
Overall, the 2023 student composition at the University of Saint Francis - Fort Wayne reflects broader societal trends toward gender equity in education while also pointing to the need for greater diversity in racial and ethnic representation. The university may consider strategies to enhance inclusivity and attract a more varied student demographic in the future.
Age Distribution Among Students at University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
The age composition of students at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne presents a fascinating snapshot of the demographics within the institution. The data reveals a significant concentration of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age bracket, where the number of male and female undergraduates is notably high. This aligns with national trends as many students transition directly from high school to college, and the university seems to cater effectively to this demographic.
Interestingly, as age increases, the number of students in each category generally declines, reflecting typical enrollment patterns in higher education. The 22-24 age group shows a mix of both undergraduate and graduate students, indicating that some students may choose to continue their education immediately after their undergraduate studies. The representation of students aged 25 and older begins to diminish, which is consistent with studies showing that younger individuals are more likely to pursue higher education, while older individuals often enter the workforce earlier.
Moreover, the gender ratio illustrates a substantial difference in enrollment between male and female students, especially among undergraduates. While the university maintains a diverse student body, the female population appears to be more prevalent, which is a trend observed across many educational institutions in recent years.
Overall, this age distribution sheds light on the demographics of the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne, reflecting broader trends in education while highlighting the institution's appeal to younger students. This information can be crucial for future recruitment strategies and program offerings, ensuring they meet the needs of a diverse and evolving student population.
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.
46 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
The data from the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne provides valuable insights into the trends of international student enrollment over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen a significant increase from 2004 to 2023. In 2004, only 0.19% of undergraduate students were international, while this figure rose to 2.66% by 2023. This increase indicates a growing appeal of the university to international students, possibly reflecting enhanced academic offerings, outreach efforts, or a more welcoming environment for diverse populations.
However, the graduate student statistics tell a different story. The percentage of international graduate students has remained relatively low, peaking at 1.33% in 2004 and fluctuating around 0.4% to 1.25% in subsequent years. This discrepancy may be attributed to various factors, including the competitive nature of graduate programs, the availability of funding, or the specific fields of study offered which may not attract as many international applicants compared to undergraduate programs.
The fluctuations in the numbers, especially the drop in both undergraduate and graduate total enrollments in the recent years, could also be influenced by the global pandemic and its aftermath, which has impacted travel and international education. The significant increase in undergraduate international students in 2023, reaching 42, may indicate a rebound or a strategic shift by the university to attract more diverse student populations.
Overall, while the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne has successfully increased its international undergraduate enrollment, there remains a need to enhance its appeal to international graduate students. As competition in the higher education sector intensifies, universities must continually assess and adapt their strategies to meet the evolving needs of global students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$48,332
- Undergraduate tuition
- $36,460
- Room and board
- $11,872
- Graduate tuition
- $26,092
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$47.3M
Expenses$54.6M
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 NAIA · Mid-States Football Association · Crossroads League
Mid-States Football Association: football
Crossroads League: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 160 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 55 | 49 |
| Soccer | 51 | 26 |
| Basketball | 32 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 8 | 6 |
| Golf | 5 | 5 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 140 | - |
| Soccer | 52 | 30 |
| Basketball | 27 | 17 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Cross Country | 10 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 10 | 8 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 8 |
| Tennis | 8 | 8 |
| Golf | 7 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | 12 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 138 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 49 | 72 |
| Soccer | 61 | 31 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 27 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Golf | 8 | 7 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Ball State UniversityMuncie · 62.3 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 64.9 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
University of Notre DameNotre Dame · 69.6 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Saint Mary's CollegeNotre Dame · 70.5 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Bowling Green State University-Main CampusBowling Green · 82.3 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 85.6 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Andrews UniversityBerrien Springs · 85.9 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 86.0 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Earlham CollegeRichmond · 88.4 mi
Liberal Arts #83
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne:
-
University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Purdue University-Main Campus - With a rank of 43, Purdue is renowned for its engineering, technology, and agricultural programs, making it a leader in research and innovation.
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - This highly prestigious university ranks 21st and is recognized for its comprehensive academic offerings and strong research initiatives.
-
Ball State University - Ranked 216th, Ball State is known for its emphasis on teacher education and its vibrant student life.
-
University of Chicago - Ranked 12th, the University of Chicago is famous for its rigorous academic standards and is a leader in economics and social sciences.
These institutions offer a diverse range of programs and opportunities for students, making the area rich in educational resources.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
The crime statistics at the University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in criminal activities on campus. The data indicates a peak in crime rates in 2018, with an average of 5.51 reported incidents per 1,000 students, while the lowest rate was recorded in 2020 at just 1.16. This significant drop in 2020 could be attributed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to decreased campus activity and a reduction in the student population on-site.
Particularly concerning are the reports of arrests related to drug use and alcohol consumption, which have shown a gradual increase over the years, peaking in 2018. In contrast, the rates of violent crimes such as assault and robbery have remained relatively low, suggesting that while there are issues with substance abuse, the campus has managed to maintain a level of safety concerning violent offenses.
It is crucial for the university to continue its efforts in providing support services for students, particularly in the realm of mental health and substance abuse counseling. Additionally, enhancing campus security measures and promoting community awareness could further reduce crime rates and ensure a safe educational environment. The trend of lower average crime rates in recent years is encouraging, and with continued vigilance and support, the university can foster a substantially safer campus for all its students.
For further information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: 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.