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U.S. News #150 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Dillard University

New Orleans, Louisiana · www.dillard.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#150

Acceptance rate

41.9%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$22,734

$36,277 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,068

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

37.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 48.0%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Dillard University, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a prestigious historically Black university that has been a beacon of academic excellence since its founding in 1869. The university's mission is to provide a high-quality education that prepares students for leadership roles in a diverse and dynamic world. Dillard is known for its commitment to liberal arts education, with a strong emphasis on social justice and community service, which is reflected in its motto, "Excellence in Education, Service to the Community." The campus environment is enriched by a vibrant culture that celebrates African American heritage, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among its students.

Dillard University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, business, and health sciences. The university is particularly noted for its nursing and public health programs, which are designed to meet the growing needs of the community and the healthcare industry. The faculty at Dillard are highly qualified and dedicated to student success, often engaging in research and community projects that enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the university boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories and libraries, which provide students with the resources they need to excel academically. With a strong focus on student life, Dillard encourages participation in various extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student organizations, ensuring a well-rounded college experience.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Dillard University

Dillard University has shown notable trends in various educational metrics over recent years. One of the most significant changes is the tuition costs, which have seen a steep increase from 15,778 USD in 2014 to 22,194 USD in 2024 for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. This represents an increase of approximately 40.7% over a decade. Rising tuition costs may raise concerns regarding accessibility and affordability for prospective students, particularly in light of the ongoing national discussions around student debt.

Another critical metric is the graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has improved from approximately 17.3% in 2013 to about 32.5% in 2023. This significant increase suggests that Dillard University is making strides in supporting its students to complete their degrees in a timely manner. Coupled with this metric, the retention rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 68% to 75% over the years, indicating that students are continuing their education at Dillard University, which is a positive sign of student satisfaction and institutional support.

The gender ratio among undergraduate students has also evolved. In 2013, 28% of undergraduates were male, while by 2023, this percentage decreased to approximately 24.4%. This shift towards a higher proportion of female students raises questions about gender dynamics in higher education and may reflect broader societal changes regarding educational attainment among genders.

In summary, while Dillard University faces challenges related to rising tuition, it is encouraging to see improvements in graduation rates and stable retention figures. The changing gender composition of the student body also highlights evolving trends in higher education. These factors combined will play a crucial role in shaping the university's future and its ability to attract and retain students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
New Orleans, about 9 mi
Nearest international airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), about 10 mi
New Orleans, Louisiana
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Monique Guillory, Ph.D. (President)
Phone
5042838822
City
New Orleans, Louisiana
Address
2601 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70122

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
46.8%
Women
85.6%

In 2020: men 35.6%, women 39.9%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#150Ranked #150 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Dillard University

The admission data from Dillard University over the years reveals interesting trends in both male and female acceptance rates, alongside fluctuations in enrollment figures. Notably, the data shows a significant decrease in the acceptance rates for both genders from 2009 to 2013, with male acceptance rates dropping from approximately 34.6% to 25.9%. This period might reflect increased competition and a growing applicant pool, as evidenced by the high number of applications received by the university.
In contrast, the years following 2013 show a resurgence in admission rates, peaking in 2023 with male acceptance rates hitting around 75.1% and female rates at 81.5%. This substantial increase could suggest that the university has adopted a more inclusive admissions approach, potentially aiming to enhance diversity and attract a larger student body.
The enrollment numbers also paint a picture of changing dynamics; while the university enrolled 173 students in 2009, it saw a peak of 446 students in 2011, followed by fluctuations in subsequent years. The sharp increase in enrollment figures in recent years coincides with improved acceptance rates, indicating that more applicants are being offered admission.
Furthermore, the data illustrates the number of students deferred, which has remained significant over the years, hinting at a strategic approach by the university to manage its enrollment effectively. Overall, these trends reflect Dillard University's evolving admissions strategy and its responsiveness to the changing landscape of higher education.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 11% submitted SAT, 30% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total968–1202Peer median 1220
ACT composite18–22
SAT Reading
480–640
600700800
SAT Math
488–562
600700800
ACT composite
18–22
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Dillard University

The admission test scores at Dillard University over the years reveal notable trends regarding student performance and the submission of standardized test scores. A significant observation is the variability in the number of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores, with peaks and declines across different years. For instance, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores ranged from as low as 1% in 2018 and 2019 to 35% in 2021, indicating fluctuating engagement with standardized testing.

The range of scores for the SAT reading and math sections has shown gradual improvements, particularly in recent years. The 25th percentile (start) and 75th percentile (end) scores for the SAT reading section have increased from 350-460 in 2007 to 510-593 in 2023, reflecting a positive trend in academic preparedness among applicants. Similarly, the ACT scores have also seen an upward trajectory.

This upward shift in test scores is encouraging, suggesting that the university is attracting students with stronger academic backgrounds over time. However, the declining percentage of students submitting scores may indicate a shift in testing policies or an increasing number of applicants opting for test-optional admissions, a trend that has gained traction nationwide amid discussions about equity in college admissions.

In conclusion, while the data indicates an overall improvement in student performance on standardized tests, the university’s evolving admissions landscape reflects broader changes in college admissions practices across the country. This dual narrative of rising scores amidst declining submission rates warrants attention as it may impact future enrollment strategies at Dillard University.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 4 in 10

7,618 applicants in 2025, 41.9% admitted

3,189 admitted 4,429 not admitted Yield 5.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2568 international (3.1%)
Master's130 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
29
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
29
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
25
Business Administration and Management, General
23
Psychology, General
21
Film/Cinema/Media Studies
20
Computer and Information Sciences, General
14
Mass Communication/Media Studies
13
Public Health, General
11
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other
11

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Nursing Administration · Master's13 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Dillard University

The graduation data from Dillard University for 2023 reveals some intriguing insights into the popularity and focus of various academic programs. Notably, the field of Biology/Biological Sciences leads with 31 graduates, reflecting the growing interest in health-related fields, which is further supported by the significant numbers in Registered Nursing and Public Health, with 15 and 24 graduates respectively. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in the wake of global health challenges, highlighting the university's role in preparing students for vital careers in this sector.

Interestingly, while the university seems to attract a solid number of students for bachelor's degrees, the absence of international students in all categories indicates a potential area for growth. The lack of diversity in the graduate pool may suggest that Dillard could benefit from enhanced recruitment strategies aimed at attracting international students, particularly in high-demand fields such as Computer Science and Business Administration, where the competitive job market could be a driving factor for prospective students.

The arts and humanities also have a presence, with programs like Film Studies and Drama, though they yield lower graduation numbers. This could imply a need for the university to assess the resources allocated to these programs to boost student interest and enrollment. Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic offerings with market demands while also fostering a diverse student body to enrich the educational experience.

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 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other.-
Public Health, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Nursing Administration.-
Businesshas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Business/Managerial Economics.-
Visual and Performing artshas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Film/Cinema/Media Studies.-
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Biologyhas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$31,407
Homeland security has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$34,470
Psychology has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Communication has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mass Communication/Media Studies.-
Public administrationhas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.-
Social sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Urban Studies/Affairs.-
Physical scienceshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
English has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-

Students

1,080 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 28:72 · Freshman retention 78.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,068)

Black
936 · 87.6%
Two or more races
38 · 3.6%
Unknown
38 · 3.6%
International
32 · 3.0%
Hispanic
12 · 1.1%
White
7 · 0.7%
Asian
1 · 0.1%

Data insights

Dillard University Student Demographics in 2023

The student body at Dillard University in 2023 showcases a significant gender disparity, particularly among undergraduate students. The data reveals that first-time freshmen comprise 334 students, with a striking 76% identifying as female, while only 24% are male. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, where 78% are female compared to just 22% male among the 806 students enrolled.

Interestingly, the situation shifts for undergraduate transfer students, where the gender ratio is more balanced, with 51.3% male and 48.8% female representation among 80 students. This could suggest that transfer students may have different social dynamics or recruitment strategies that attract a more balanced demographic.

Moreover, the overall low numbers recorded for non-traditional students, which include those classified as "not determined," highlight the challenges faced in attracting diverse student populations or perhaps issues related to retention and recruitment strategies. It's notable that the majority of the enrolled students are underrepresented minorities, particularly in the first-time freshmen and undergraduate junior categories, which reflects ongoing trends in higher education wherein institutions strive to enhance diversity and inclusion.

As universities increasingly recognize the importance of gender and racial diversity, Dillard's statistics may indicate a need for targeted outreach and support services, particularly for male students and students from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, to foster a more equitable campus environment. Addressing these disparities is crucial for creating a supportive academic community that values and uplifts all students.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Dillard University

The age distribution data for students at Dillard University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. The largest age group, comprising students aged 18-19, significantly dominates the undergraduate population, with 121 male and 423 female students. This reflects a trend often seen in many universities where younger students, particularly those fresh out of high school, make up a substantial portion of the undergraduate community.

As we move through the age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in both male and female students pursuing undergraduate studies. For instance, the 20-21 age group includes 99 males and 319 females, which continues to indicate a strong female presence in the undergraduate realm. However, the numbers drop sharply in the 22-24 age range, where 58 males and 97 females are enrolled. This pattern suggests that many students may be completing their undergraduate education within this age range, leading to a decrease in the number of enrolled students.

Interestingly, the presence of graduate students is absent in the data, indicating that this demographic may be either underrepresented or not yet reached in the university's enrollment statistics. The absence of graduate students can impact the overall educational environment, as diverse age groups contribute to a richer academic experience.

Overall, the data underscores the predominance of younger undergraduates, particularly female students, at Dillard University. This demographic trend may have implications for the university's academic programs and support services, highlighting the need to cater to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by a younger student population.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.0%

32 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.2%2017: 1.8%2018: 1.3%2019: 1.1%2020: 0.4%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.2%2023: 0.9%2024: 1.5%2025: 3.0%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2024

0% 5% 10% 2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2024Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Dillard University

The data on international student enrollment at Dillard University reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades. Initially, in 2004, the university had a mere one international undergraduate among a total of 2,312 students, representing only 0.04%. This number gradually increased, peaking in 2014 with 58 international students, which constituted 4.9% of the undergraduate population. This surge highlights a growing acceptance and appeal of Dillard University as a destination for international students.

However, after 2014, there has been a concerning downward trend in the numbers. By 2022, the university reported only two international undergraduates, a drastic decline that reflects broader challenges in international education, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has led to travel restrictions, visa complications, and a general hesitance among students to study abroad. The subsequent years show a slight recovery, with 11 international students in 2023, yet this figure remains significantly lower than in previous years.

The trends observed in this data highlight the importance of understanding the factors influencing international student mobility. Universities must address these challenges and work towards creating a more welcoming environment for international students. Given the diverse perspectives and contributions that international students bring to academic communities, fostering a robust international student presence is crucial for enriching the educational experience at Dillard University and similar institutions. As the world gradually returns to normalcy, it is imperative for universities to strategize on attracting and retaining international talent.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$36,277

Undergraduate tuition
$22,734
Room and board
$13,543
Graduate tuition
$9,400
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$49.1M

Government grants and contracts
$19.4M39.5%
Tuition and fees
$9.6M19.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$8.7M17.6%
Investment return
$5.6M11.4%
Gifts and private grants
$4.9M10.0%
Sales and services of educational activities
$885K1.8%

Expenses$51.7M

Instruction
$8.4M16.2%
Institutional support
$8.4M16.2%
Student services
$7.6M14.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.2M10.0%
Academic support
$4.0M7.7%
Research
$2.0M3.9%
Other
$16.2M31.3%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$65,443peers $65,931
Professor
$77,652peers $77,501
Associate professor
$66,136peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$62,978peers $61,725
Instructor
$54,920peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference

Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3945
Baseball55-
Basketball1614
Tennis1410
Softball-19
Volleyball-19
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4744
Baseball43-
Basketball1915
Tennis911
Volleyball-17
Softball-16
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5257
Baseball39-
Basketball1314
Volleyball-19
Tennis87

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Dillard University:

  1. Tulane University of Louisiana - Ranked 73rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Tulane is a private research university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Loyola University New Orleans - With a ranking of 260, Loyola University offers a Jesuit education emphasizing ethics and social justice, fostering a supportive community for its students.

  3. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College - Ranked 185th, LSU is a prominent public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on research and student engagement.

  4. University of Alabama at Birmingham - This university ranks 142nd and is known for its research programs and health-related degrees, providing a hub for innovation and education in the medical field.

  5. Rice University - With an impressive rank of 17, Rice is a prestigious private university recognized for its rigorous academic programs, research opportunities, and a low student-to-faculty ratio.

Each of these institutions contributes to a rich educational landscape in the region, offering diverse opportunities for students in various fields of study.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Dating violence
14
Motor vehicle theft
13
Drug referrals
13
Residence hall fires
9
Domestic violence
5
Drug arrests
4

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Dillard University

The crime statistics at Dillard University from 2013 to 2023 reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety, with significant spikes in certain years. The average crime rate per 1,000 students reached its peak in 2018 at 69.15, which is alarming and raises concerns about student safety and the effectiveness of campus security measures during that period. Notably, the year 2016 also saw a dramatic rise in crime rates, indicating a possible ongoing issue that may need to be addressed by university administration.

A closer look at specific offenses shows a concerning trend in violent crimes, particularly regarding gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents. The increase in such serious offenses could suggest a need for more robust preventive measures and programs aimed at educating students about the risks and consequences associated with substance abuse and violence.

However, the crime rate saw a significant reduction in 2022, falling to 2.66, which might indicate that the university has implemented effective strategies to enhance safety and reduce criminal activity. The year 2023 demonstrates a slight uptick with a rate of 15.69, suggesting that while progress has been made, continuous vigilance and improvement are necessary to maintain a safe environment for all students.

This analysis underscores the importance of campus safety initiatives and the need for ongoing assessment of crime trends to ensure a conducive learning environment. For more detailed information on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Dillard University include Andrew Young (American politician, diplomat and activist), Garrett Morris (Actor, first Black cast member of Saturday Night Live) and Alice Dunbar Nelson (Poet, journalist and activist of the Harlem Renaissance).

See all 24 notable alumni of Dillard University →

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.