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Private nonprofit, 4-year

University of Saint Mary

Leavenworth, Kansas · www.stmary.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

86.6%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$35,380

$45,708 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,027

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

29.5%

4-year; 6-year rate 38.5%

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 Mary, located in Leavenworth, Kansas, is a private Catholic university known for its commitment to providing a holistic education that emphasizes academic excellence, community service, and the development of moral character. Established in 1923, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields including business, education, health sciences, and the liberal arts. The campus is characterized by its beautiful and serene environment, which provides an ideal backdrop for learning and personal growth. The university promotes a strong sense of community, where students are encouraged to engage in service projects, leadership opportunities, and extracurricular activities that foster a spirit of collaboration and social responsibility.

The University of Saint Mary prides itself on its dedicated faculty, who are not only experts in their respective fields but also deeply committed to student success. The small class sizes enable personalized attention, allowing faculty members to mentor students closely, enhancing their academic experience. The university’s mission is reflected in its motto, "Ut Vitam Habeant" (That They May Have Life), which underscores its focus on nurturing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. In addition to academics, students enjoy a vibrant campus life that includes various clubs, athletic programs, and cultural events, making it a well-rounded institution. With a strong emphasis on ethics and values, graduates of the University of Saint Mary are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue further studies, contributing positively to their communities and professions.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at the University of Saint Mary

Over the years, the University of Saint Mary has seen a significant increase in tuition rates for both undergraduate and graduate programs. For instance, the in-state undergraduate tuition rose from approximately $23,170 in 2014 to $33,890 in 2024, representing a nearly 46% increase. This continuous rise in tuition reflects broader trends in higher education, where increasing operational costs are often passed on to students. Such financial demands can influence enrollment decisions, particularly for prospective students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Graduation rates also exhibit noteworthy fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates varied significantly, reaching a peak of 43.9% in 2016 but dropping to 28.4% in 2019. However, there was a slight recovery to 38.3% in 2023. This inconsistency may indicate challenges faced by students, potentially linked to financial pressures exacerbated by rising tuition costs. Moreover, the 150% graduation rate, which is often used to gauge the longer-term success of a college's programs, shows a more favorable trend, improving to 56.1% in 2023. This suggests that while some students may struggle to graduate on time, a significant number eventually complete their degrees.

Retention rates provide further insight into student satisfaction and institutional support. The retention rate for undergraduates fluctuated over the years, experiencing a notable drop to 52% in 2022 before rebounding to around 69.7% in 2023. This might indicate that while the university is making strides in retaining students, challenges remain that could be addressed through enhanced support systems or financial aid packages.

Overall, the combination of rising tuition, fluctuating graduation rates, and variable retention highlights the complex landscape of higher education at the University of Saint Mary. Continued focus on these metrics will be essential for ensuring that the institution remains accessible and supportive to its diverse student body.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Town near a city
Nearest major city
Kansas City, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 10 mi
Leavenworth, Kansas
Also known as
University of St. Mary, University of St Mary
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Diane Steele, SCL, Ph.D. (President)
Phone
9136825151
City
Leavenworth, Kansas
Address
4100 S 4th St, Leavenworth, KS 66048-5082

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
86.0%
Women
87.6%

In 2020: men 81.3%, women 87.2%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Saint Mary

The admission data for the University of Saint Mary reveals significant trends over the years, showcasing both the challenges and shifts in student enrollment dynamics. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated considerably. Notably, the male acceptance rate started at approximately 69.77% in 2009, peaking at 82.45% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate showed a similar upward trend, starting at around 67.41% and reaching 80.72%.
A concerning aspect highlighted by the data is the increasing number of applicants being denied admission over the years, peaking in 2021 with 556 denials. This indicates a growing competitiveness in the application process, which may reflect a larger trend of increasing interest in higher education, particularly in a post-pandemic landscape. The drastic drop in enrollment figures in 2012, where the university only welcomed 114 new students and faced a staggering 336 denials, underscores the volatility that institutions can experience due to external factors such as economic shifts or changes in educational policies.
Moreover, the deferment numbers are quite telling as well, with a sharp rise in deferred admissions, especially in 2022, where 1219 students were deferred. This could suggest that many applicants are uncertain about their immediate future or that the institution is strategically managing enrollment numbers in light of potential changes in the education landscape.
Overall, the data indicates that the University of Saint Mary is navigating a complex admissions environment, with fluctuating acceptance rates and a growing applicant pool. The administration may need to continuously adapt their strategies to maintain balance and ensure a vibrant, diverse student body.

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

Nursing School#394▼9

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty2 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 6% submitted SAT, 35% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total806–1028Peer median 1158
ACT composite17–24
SAT Reading
378–518
600700800
SAT Math
428–510
600700800
ACT composite
17–24
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at the University of Saint Mary

The admission data from the University of Saint Mary reveals interesting trends over the years regarding SAT and ACT scores. Notably, the proportion of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak in 2021 and 2022 at 37%, indicating a potential increase in interest or confidence among applicants regarding their performance on this standardized test.

Examining the scores, there is a noticeable improvement in the SAT reading and math sections from 2007 to 2023. The 25th percentile for reading scores increased from 400 in 2007 to 465 in 2023, suggesting that the institution is attracting students with stronger academic backgrounds over the years. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also seen an upward trend, indicating a broader improvement in overall student performance.

In contrast, the ACT scores present a more volatile picture. While the percentage of students submitting ACT scores remains relatively consistent, the actual scores show both increases and decreases over the years. The 25th percentile for the composite ACT score was 18 in 2007 but did not show a clear upward trajectory as seen with the SAT scores.

This data reflects broader trends in higher education where universities are increasingly becoming competitive in terms of student quality. The rising scores can also be attributed to the growing emphasis on standardized testing in college admissions, which may encourage students to prepare more thoroughly. Additionally, the recent discussions on the relevance of standardized testing in college admissions highlight the shifting landscape, as some institutions move towards test-optional policies.

Overall, the University of Saint Mary appears to be improving its academic profile, as reflected in the increasing test scores. This trend may enhance its appeal to prospective students seeking a strong academic environment.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,159 applicants in 2025, 86.6% admitted

1,004 admitted 155 not admitted Yield 20.7%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate10 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's2105 international (2.4%)
Master's773 international (3.9%)
Doctoral560 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
27
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
25
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
20
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
17
Computer and Information Sciences, General
16
Criminology
16
Psychology, General
14
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
13
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other
10
Social Work
10

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral41 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's30 (7% international)
  • Counseling Psychology · Master's17 (6% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral10 (0% international)
  • Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's8 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from University of Saint Mary

The graduation data for 2023 from the University of Saint Mary reveals noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Notably, the fields of health and nursing are leading in terms of graduate output, indicating a robust demand for professionals in these areas. For instance, the program in Registered Nursing produced a significant number of graduates, reflecting the nationwide emphasis on healthcare education and the ongoing shortage of nursing professionals exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In contrast, fields such as Psychology and Business Administration show a more modest number of graduates. Psychology, while popular, has not translated into a high number of graduates at the master’s level, suggesting potential barriers to advanced study in this discipline. Moreover, the lack of international students graduating from these programs might highlight either a lack of global appeal or admissions barriers for non-domestic students.

Interestingly, the data also indicates that certain programs have a minimal output, such as the arts and humanities, which may reflect broader trends in enrollment and job market viability. The emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields continues to dominate, aligning with national trends prioritizing technical skills and innovation.

Overall, the graduation figures at the University of Saint Mary encapsulate broader educational trends, particularly the rising demand for healthcare professionals and the gradual shift in student interest towards fields with perceived job security and growth potential. This data serves as a reflection of both institutional priorities and wider societal needs in the evolving job market.

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

Health professionshas 102 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$76,138
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$76,138
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$78,665-$120,504
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$78,665-$120,504
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other.$78,665-$120,504
Businesshas 71 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$81,612
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$40,671
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$40,671
Sports Studies.$40,671
Psychology has 34 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Counseling Psychology.$62,007
Psychology, Other.-
Educationhas 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Social Studies Teacher Education.-
Social sciencehas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminology.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Biologyhas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$49,544
Biomedical Sciences, General.$49,544
Public administrationhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.-
History has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Applied Mathematics, General.-
English has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Visual and Performing artshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Liberal arts has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-

Students

1,462 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 65.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,027)

White
499 · 48.6%
Hispanic
232 · 22.6%
Black
147 · 14.3%
Two or more races
58 · 5.6%
Unknown
47 · 4.6%
International
21 · 2.0%
Asian
18 · 1.8%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
8.9%
18–19
33.8%
20–21
30.1%
22–24
13.0%
25 and over
14.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
2.3%
22–24
36.1%
25–29
27.1%
30–34
8.5%
35 and over
26.0%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Composition at the University of Saint Mary in 2023

The student demographic data from the University of Saint Mary reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body for the year 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable male majority, with 69.5% of new students identifying as male. In contrast, the upperclassmen category shows a more balanced gender distribution, with females slightly outnumbering males at 51.1%. This shift may reflect broader trends in higher education, where retention rates and academic performance can influence the gender dynamics among older cohorts.

The undergraduate transfer students also exhibit a slight female majority at 53.3%, similar to the upperclassmen. This indicates a consistent trend of female representation across these categories, potentially influenced by factors such as career aspirations and transfer policies. Meanwhile, the graduate student population stands out with a significant female majority of 61.3%, underscoring the increasing participation of women in advanced studies, which is consistent with national trends indicating a rise in female enrollment in graduate programs.

Furthermore, examining the ethnic composition of the student body, we see a diverse mix among the freshmen, with 94 white students and a smaller representation from other ethnic groups. This diversity is crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment that reflects the broader society. Overall, the data suggests that while there is a strong representation of males among new undergraduate students, the overall trend at the University of Saint Mary indicates a growing female presence, particularly in graduate studies, highlighting the evolving landscape of higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at University of Saint Mary (2023)

The age composition of students at the University of Saint Mary in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic landscape that merits attention. The data indicates a significant number of traditional college-aged students, particularly in the 18-19 age group, where males constitute approximately 56% and females about 44%. This aligns with national trends as higher education continues to attract younger students straight from high school.

Notably, the 20-21 age bracket also reflects a robust participation, particularly among females, who outnumber their male counterparts in this group. The trend appears to shift as we observe older age groups; from 22-24 to 25-29, there is a notable presence of graduate students, especially females, hinting at an increasing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees. This mirrors broader societal changes where women are increasingly represented in higher education, a positive development amidst ongoing discussions about gender equality in academia.

The data does show a decline in enrollment among students aged 30 and above, which could be indicative of various factors, including career commitments or family responsibilities that may hinder adult learners from pursuing further education. However, the presence of students aged 40-49 and even 50-64 suggests that adult education is still relevant and that institutions like the University of Saint Mary support lifelong learning.

In conclusion, the age distribution at the University of Saint Mary illustrates a blend of youth and mature students, reflecting both traditional college demographics and the growing presence of non-traditional learners. This diversity enhances the educational environment, fostering a rich exchange of experiences and perspectives that can benefit all students.

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.

Undergraduates2.0%

21 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.1%2017: 1.2%2018: 0.9%2019: 1.2%2020: 0.8%2021: 0.5%2022: 0.6%2023: 1.7%2024: 2.2%2025: 2.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students2.5%

11 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.1%2017: 1.4%2018: 1.2%2019: 0.8%2020: 2.2%2021: 2.1%2022: 0.7%2023: 0.5%2024: 2.0%2025: 2.5%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Saint Mary

The data on international students at the University of Saint Mary reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international students in both undergraduate and graduate programs has generally been low, often below 2%. For instance, in 2023, international students make up only 1.66% of the undergraduate population and 0.55% of the graduate population.

This consistent low percentage might reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where many institutions have seen a decline in international enrollment due to various factors such as changing visa regulations, economic conditions, and competition from universities in other countries. The peak of international student enrollment occurred in 2017, with 1.19% in undergraduate programs and 1.40% in graduate programs, suggesting that the university may have attracted more international students during that period, possibly due to effective recruitment strategies or favorable conditions for international students.

However, the data also shows a worrying decline in recent years, especially in graduate programs, where the percentage of international students dropped to 0.55% by 2023. This raises concerns about the university's appeal to international scholars and the need for strategic initiatives to enhance its global presence and attract a more diverse student body.

In conclusion, while there have been fluctuations in international student enrollment at the University of Saint Mary, the overall low percentages indicate that there is significant room for growth. The university may benefit from reassessing its international recruitment strategies to enhance diversity and strengthen its academic community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$45,708

Undergraduate tuition
$35,380
Room and board
$10,328
Graduate tuition
$9,073
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 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.6M

Tuition and fees
$19.4M56.0%
Gifts and private grants
$7.0M20.2%
Investment return
$3.9M11.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.4M9.8%
Government grants and contracts
$799K2.3%

Expenses$30.2M

Instruction
$11.8M39.2%
Student services
$8.1M26.7%
Institutional support
$4.9M16.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.7M8.9%
Academic support
$652K2.2%
Other
$2.1M6.9%

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
$60,494peers $68,006
Professor
$72,726peers $78,041
Associate professor
$64,274peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$58,394peers $63,827
Instructor
$54,098peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference

Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Football108-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5739
Soccer4927
Basketball3528
Wrestling2930
Baseball53-
Swimming2123
Volleyball-44
Softball-28
Bowling1213
Tennis1210
Other Sports-21
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7746
Football97-
Soccer5338
Basketball3534
Baseball53-
Wrestling2028
Swimming2122
Volleyball-41
Lacrosse1821
Softball-36
Tennis1012
Bowling912
Other Sports-17
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7750
Football119-
Soccer4630
Basketball2826
Wrestling3024
Baseball44-
Swimming2519
Volleyball-41
Lacrosse1517
Softball-28
Bowling911
Other Sports-15
Tennis63

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near the University of Saint Mary:

  1. University of Missouri-Kansas City - Ranked 269 in 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a diverse array of programs and is located in the vibrant city of Kansas City.

  2. University of Kansas - With a rank of 151, this comprehensive university is known for its research initiatives and beautiful campus in Lawrence, Kansas.

  3. Kansas State University - Ranked 170, this comprehensive institution is situated in Manhattan, Kansas, and is recognized for its strong agricultural and engineering programs.

  4. University of Missouri-Columbia - This comprehensive university holds the 124th rank and is known for its extensive research facilities and a wide range of academic programs.

  5. Creighton University - Ranked 124, Creighton is a Jesuit institution located in Omaha, Nebraska, offering a strong focus on liberal arts education and professional programs.

  6. Iowa State University - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university in Ames, Iowa, is well-known for its engineering, agriculture, and veterinary programs.

  7. Grinnell College - This liberal arts college is highly regarded, ranking 11th, and is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life in Grinnell, Iowa.

These institutions contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the region, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for students.

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

Drug referrals
12
Liquor referrals
12
Stalking
6
Domestic violence
4
Robbery
1
Aggravated assault
1

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

Data insights

Crime Trends at the University of Saint Mary

The crime statistics at the University of Saint Mary over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend, with notable peaks and valleys. In 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students was a concerning 5.56, which then dropped significantly to just 0.45 in 2014. This dramatic decrease could suggest effective measures taken by the university to enhance campus safety. However, the numbers began to rise again in subsequent years, reaching a peak of 14.19 in 2019, indicating a resurgence in crime that merits further investigation.

Particularly alarming are the figures for violent crimes, including arrests related to gun possession and domestic violence, which can have a profound impact on campus life and student well-being. The increase in crime rates from 2018 to 2019 may reflect broader societal issues, including the rising prevalence of gun-related incidents in educational institutions across the United States.

Despite some fluctuations, the figures for the subsequent years, particularly 2020 to 2022, show a slight decrease in crime rates, suggesting that the university may be implementing more effective prevention strategies. The 2023 data points to a further decline, with a rate of 2.53, which is promising and may indicate a positive trend towards improving campus safety.

In conclusion, while the University of Saint Mary has experienced varying crime rates over the years, recent trends suggest a move towards a safer campus environment. Continuous efforts in crime prevention and awareness are essential to ensure the safety and security of all students. For further details on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.