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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Dordt University

Sioux Center, Iowa · www.dordt.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

68.5%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$37,050

$48,820 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,716

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

63.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 67.5%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Dordt University, located in Sioux Center, Iowa, is a private Christian institution known for its commitment to integrating faith and learning across its academic programs. Established in 1955, the university emphasizes a Christ-centered education, guided by its mission to equip students to serve in various capacities in society. The university's motto, "To glorify God in all things," reflects its dedication to nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also morally and spiritually grounded. This focus on holistic education is evident in its wide range of programs, including liberal arts, business, education, and sciences, all designed to prepare students for meaningful lives and careers.

The campus culture at Dordt University is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community among students and faculty. With a commitment to student engagement, the university offers numerous extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and service projects, encouraging students to develop their interests and talents outside the classroom. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and athletic venues, which enhance the learning experience. Moreover, Dordt University prides itself on its exceptional faculty, who are not only experts in their fields but also dedicated mentors who support students' academic and personal growth. As a result, Dordt University graduates are well-prepared for successful careers and are highly sought after by employers, reflecting the university's strong emphasis on preparing students for the challenges of the modern workforce.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Dordt University

Dordt University, a private institution, has demonstrated significant trends across various metrics, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student demographics. Over the past decade, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has consistently increased, reaching $34,600 for the 2023 academic year, which represents a notable rise compared to $26,540 in 2014. This upward trend in tuition may reflect the broader national trend of rising college costs, which has raised concerns about affordability and student debt.

In terms of graduation rates, there has been a notable fluctuation. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved considerably from approximately 55% in 2013 to around 60.6% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate also increased to 65.4% in the same year. This indicates that while the university faces challenges in retaining students, it has made strides in ensuring that those who enroll are more likely to graduate within a reasonable timeframe.

Furthermore, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has shifted dramatically. The proportion of male students dropped from about 52% in 2013 to nearly 50% in 2023, indicating a more balanced gender representation. This shift could reflect changing societal norms concerning higher education and the increasing enrollment of women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Lastly, the retention rate of undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, hovering around 80% over the past decade. This suggests that once students enroll, a significant majority choose to continue their studies at Dordt University, which is a positive indicator of student satisfaction and program effectiveness.

In summary, while Dordt University continues to contend with rising costs, it is also achieving progress in graduation rates and gender equity. These insights can inform future strategic decisions aimed at enhancing affordability and student success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Omaha, about 130 mi
Nearest international airport
Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 170 mi
Sioux Center, Iowa
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Christian Reformed Church
President
Erik Hoekstra (President)
Phone
7127226000
City
Sioux Center, Iowa
Address
700 7th St SE, Sioux Center, IA 51250-1606

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
66.2%
Women
71.6%

In 2020: men 73.2%, women 79.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Dordt University

The admission data from Dordt University over the years reveals significant trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants started at approximately 86.49% in 2009 but has shown a consistent decline to about 78.98% by 2023. Female acceptance rates followed a similar pattern, starting at around 86.59% and dropping to approximately 98.62% in 2023, which marks a notable increase in female acceptance compared to previous years.
The fluctuations in enrollment numbers and the number of denied applications paint a picture of a competitive and evolving admissions landscape. For instance, the university saw its highest number of enrollments in 2023, with 444 students, alongside a significant reduction in the number of denials to just 182. This suggests a strategic shift towards accommodating more students while navigating the challenges posed by a growing applicant pool.
Furthermore, the data reveals an increase in deferred admissions, indicating that more students are choosing to postpone their college journey, possibly influenced by ongoing global uncertainties related to health and economic stability. The increase in deferrals from earlier years could reflect a cautious approach by students amid changing educational landscapes.
In conclusion, Dordt University's admission trends illustrate both the challenges and opportunities faced by higher education institutions today. As the demand for college education continues to grow, the university's adaptive strategies in handling admissions could serve as a model for others navigating similar circumstances.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 18% submitted SAT, 85% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1070–1330Peer median 1158
ACT composite21–29
SAT Reading
540–670
600700800
SAT Math
530–660
600700800
ACT composite
21–29
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Dordt University

The admissions data from Dordt University over the years reflects a notable evolution in both applicant performance and the overall applicant pool. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has seen fluctuations, with a peak of 27% in 2013 and a low of 13% in 2022. This trend may indicate a changing landscape in college admissions, where students are exploring various testing options or opting for test-optional policies.

When examining the scores, the range of SAT reading and math scores indicates a steady performance among admitted students. The 25th percentile scores have remained relatively stable, with a slight increase in the upper range over the years. For instance, the SAT reading scores have shifted from a starting point of 440 in 2007 to a peak of 530 in 2018, demonstrating an upward trend in the quality of applicants.

Furthermore, the ACT scores show a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile achieving a score of 18 in recent years, which aligns with national averages. This suggests that Dordt University is maintaining a competitive admissions standard, while also considering a diverse range of academic backgrounds.

Overall, the data reveals a dynamic admissions process at Dordt University, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The university's commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence is evident in the evolving scores and submission rates, positioning it well for future growth and adaptability in an ever-changing educational environment.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,773 applicants in 2025, 68.5% admitted

1,214 admitted 559 not admitted Yield 38.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate282 international (7.1%)
Bachelor's36429 international (8.0%)
Master's9115 international (16.5%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Mechanical Engineering
25
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
24
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
23
Social Work
22
Elementary Education and Teaching
21
Secondary Education and Teaching
15
Business/Commerce, General
15
Psychology, General
14
Animal Sciences, General
13
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's32 (13% international)
  • Social Work · Master's22 (27% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's20 (20% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's16 (6% international)
  • Public Administration · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Dordt University

The graduation data from Dordt University for 2023 reveals several notable trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the field of Registered Nursing stands out with 26 graduates, including three international students, underscoring the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the current job market. This trend aligns with the increasing global focus on health services, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by public health crises.

In the realm of Education, the programs in Educational Leadership and Administration, as well as Curriculum and Instruction, report substantial numbers of master's graduates, with 34 and 27 respectively. This indicates a robust interest in advanced educational roles, reflecting a broader societal emphasis on effective educational leadership and curriculum development. Interestingly, no bachelor's or associate degrees were awarded in these areas, suggesting that the university may be focusing on graduate-level education to meet specific leadership needs in schools.

Additionally, the data indicates a lack of graduation in certain fields such as Engineering and Computer Engineering, which is concerning given the increasing reliance on technology and engineering solutions in various industries. This gap suggests potential areas for growth and development within the university’s offerings, particularly as the economy leans more towards STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Overall, the insights gained from this data highlight both the strengths and opportunities for Dordt University in tailoring its academic programs to meet the evolving demands of the workforce while also addressing potential gaps in certain disciplines.

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 118 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$40,636
Secondary Education and Teaching.$40,636
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.$40,636
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Teacher Assistant/Aide.-
Businesshas 80 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services, Other.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.$61,022
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Actuarial Science.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$48,518
Construction Management, General.-
Engineeringhas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Engineering, General.-
Chemical Engineering.-
Civil Engineering, General.-
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
Engineering Science.-
Mechanical Engineering.$69,537
Public administrationhas 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Community Organization and Advocacy.-
Public Administration.-
Social Work.-
Agricultural has 46 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Agriculture, General.-
Agricultural Business and Management, General.-
Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations.-
Agricultural/Farm Supplies Retailing and Wholesaling.-
Agricultural Production Operations, General.-
Animal Sciences, General.-
Plant Sciences, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other.-
Health professionshas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$62,261
Biologyhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Epidemiology.-
Psychology has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Communication has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Journalism.-
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Visual and Performing artshas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Statistics, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
American History (United States).-
Engineering technologieshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General.-
Natural resources has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Environmental Science.-
Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General.-
Social sciencehas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Social Sciences, Other.-
Theology has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Missions/Missionary Studies.-
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other.-
Homeland security has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Liberal arts has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics and Computer Science.-
Data Science, General.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
General Literature.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Physics, General.-
Foreign languages has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-

Students

1,952 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 84.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,716)

White
1,390 · 81.0%
International
144 · 8.4%
Unknown
79 · 4.6%
Hispanic
37 · 2.2%
Two or more races
31 · 1.8%
Asian
20 · 1.2%
Black
11 · 0.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.2%
18–19
18.1%
20–21
47.0%
22–24
32.4%
25 and over
1.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
15.7%
25–29
23.7%
30–34
15.7%
35 and over
44.9%

Data insights

Dordt University Student Demographics Review 2023

The demographic data for Dordt University in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into its student body composition. The university accommodates a diverse array of students, including first-year undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer undergraduates, and graduate students.

Among first-year undergraduates, there are 444 students, with a fairly balanced gender ratio, where approximately 51.6% are male and 48.4% are female. This trend of nearly equal representation continues with the continuing undergraduate students, who total 1,005, exhibiting a slight male predominance at 51%. However, transfer students present a contrast; they consist of only 23 individuals with a majority of 52.2% being female, indicating a potential shift in the gender landscape for this specific group.

The graduate student population is markedly different, with 243 students and a significantly higher female representation at 68.7%. This suggests that graduate programs at Dordt University may attract more female students, possibly reflecting broader trends in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.

In terms of racial composition, while detailed breakdowns for the continuing, transfer, and graduate students are not provided, it is clear that white students constitute the majority in the first-year and transfer categories. This highlights the ongoing need for universities to focus on diversity and inclusion strategies to ensure a more varied representation among their student populations.

Overall, the data indicates a stable gender balance in undergraduate admissions, with a notable increase in female representation at the graduate level. As educational institutions strive for inclusivity, Dordt University appears to be making strides, yet challenges remain in diversifying its student demographic.

Demographic Insights on Age Composition at Dordt University

The age distribution among students at Dordt University in 2023 reveals interesting patterns reflective of broader educational trends. The majority of the student body, particularly those aged 18-21, constitutes a significant portion of the undergraduate population. Specifically, 143 male students and 190 female students fall within the 18-19 age range, while the 20-21 category includes 393 males and 352 females. This indicates that most students are in their late teens to early twenties, which is typical for many undergraduate institutions.

Moreover, the data shows a gradual decline in the number of students as the age increases beyond 22, with the 22-24 age group maintaining a balanced representation of male and female students. The presence of graduate students in older age brackets, particularly those aged 25-29 and beyond, suggests that Dordt University also accommodates non-traditional students who may be balancing education with other life responsibilities.

Interestingly, the representation of graduate students tends to increase as age rises, with notable counts in the 30-34 and 40-49 categories. This trend aligns with the notion that many individuals pursue advanced degrees later in life, often after gaining work experience or fulfilling personal commitments.

Overall, the demographic structure at Dordt University reflects a vibrant mix of youthful undergraduates and mature graduate students, highlighting the institution's appeal across different life stages. This diversity enriches the educational environment, fostering a blend of perspectives and experiences that enhance academic dialogue and community engagement.

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.

Undergraduates8.4%

144 in 2025 · 9.1% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 9.1%2017: 8.9%2018: 8.1%2019: 8.6%2020: 9.0%2021: 8.1%2022: 9.3%2023: 10.1%2024: 9.1%2025: 8.4%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students17.8%

42 in 2025 · 5.5% in 2016

0% 10% 20% 2016: 5.5%2017: 1.5%2018: 3.5%2019: 2.9%2020: 1.9%2021: 1.3%2022: 2.8%2023: 7.8%2024: 14.5%2025: 17.8%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Dordt University

The data on international student enrollment at Dordt University reveals significant trends over the years. In 2004, the university had 182 international undergraduates, representing 14.15% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage saw fluctuations, dipping to a low of 8.08% by 2018 and again in 2021. The most recent data from 2023 shows a modest increase to 10.14%. This indicates a gradual but inconsistent growth in the proportion of international students among undergraduates.

For graduate students, the figures present a more complex picture. Starting from a mere 4.69% in 2004, the numbers for international graduate students fluctuated significantly, with the highest recorded percentage being 7.82% in 2023. The increase in the number of international graduate students is notable, though the overall percentage remains low compared to undergraduate enrollment.

These trends could reflect broader national patterns in higher education, where many institutions are experiencing challenges in attracting international students due to various factors, such as changing immigration policies and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global mobility. Furthermore, the emphasis on enhancing the international student experience and providing support services may contribute to future growth in these numbers.

Overall, Dordt University’s international student enrollment data suggests a need for strategic initiatives to enhance the university's appeal to a more diverse student body. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it is crucial for institutions to adapt and promote inclusivity to attract and retain international talent.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$48,820

Undergraduate tuition
$37,050
Room and board
$11,770
Graduate tuition
$10,990
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 31% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$72.5M

Tuition and fees
$27.0M37.2%
Gifts and private grants
$15.5M21.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$15.4M21.2%
Investment return
$9.7M13.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$3.3M4.5%
Government grants and contracts
$1.4M1.9%

Expenses$54.8M

Instruction
$19.8M36.0%
Student services
$11.0M20.0%
Institutional support
$9.8M17.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$9.6M17.5%
Academic support
$3.9M7.1%
Research
$398K0.7%
Public service
$372K0.7%

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
$65,261peers $68,006
Professor
$71,429peers $78,041
Associate professor
$63,226peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$61,070peers $63,827
Instructor
$55,099peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Great Plains Athletic Conference

Great Plains Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)8175
Football141-
Soccer5142
Cross Country3839
Baseball65-
Volleyball2531
Basketball2926
Softball-53
Other Sports-24
Golf167
Swimming67
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)7180
Football142-
Soccer5241
Baseball71-
Cross Country3132
Basketball3028
Volleyball2430
Softball-40
Other Sports-33
Golf1712
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football127-
Track and Field (Outdoor)5763
Soccer5448
Volleyball2535
Cross Country3029
Basketball2927
Baseball54-
Softball-33
Other Sports-30
Golf1811

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Dordt University:

  1. University of South Dakota - Ranked 269 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. Creighton University - With a rank of 124, Creighton is a private comprehensive university known for its strong programs in health sciences and business.

  3. Iowa State University - Ranked 115, this comprehensive university is renowned for its engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine programs.

  4. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - This comprehensive university ranks 159 and is recognized for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings.

  5. Drake University - With a rank of 178, Drake is a private comprehensive university that excels in law, business, and liberal arts education.

  6. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - Ranked 53, this major public research university offers a wide variety of programs and is known for its vibrant campus life.

  7. University of Iowa - A prominent comprehensive university ranked 93, the University of Iowa is well-regarded for its writing program and health-related fields.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are notable for their academic excellence in various fields.

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
24
Drug referrals
6
Stalking
3
Dating violence
2
Rape
1
Residence hall fires
1

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

Data insights

Crime Trends at Dordt University: A Closer Look

Analyzing the crime statistics at Dordt University from 2013 to 2023 reveals significant fluctuations in the rates of infractions per 1,000 students. The data indicates a peak in 2016 with an alarming rate of 8.92 incidents per 1,000 students, primarily driven by drug-related arrests and alcohol offenses. This spike may correlate with broader societal issues, such as the opioid crisis and increased scrutiny on campus safety and student behavior during that period.

Interestingly, the years following 2016 showed a downward trend, with a notable decrease in crime rates in 2014 and 2021, where the rates fell to 1.68 and 2.41 incidents per 1,000 students, respectively. This decline could suggest effective interventions by the university, including increased awareness campaigns and support services for students. However, the resurgence in 2018 and 2022, where rates climbed again, highlights the ongoing challenges that campuses face regarding substance abuse and violence, particularly during stressful academic periods.

The data also shows that incidents such as domestic violence and stalking are areas of concern that require continuous attention. With the increasing focus on mental health and safety in educational institutions, it is crucial for Dordt University to maintain a proactive approach to these issues, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students.

For anyone interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: 'https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447'.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Dordt University include Randy Feenstra (U.S. Representative for Iowa's 4th district), Betty De Boef (Former Iowa House of Representatives member) and Sam Kooiker (Former Mayor of Rapid City, South Dakota).

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.