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Private nonprofit, 4-year

University of Holy Cross

New Orleans, Louisiana · uhcno.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

73.7%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$16,576

$28,378 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

471

Student-faculty ratio 7:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

13.5%

4-year; 6-year rate 23.0%

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 Holy Cross (Università degli Studi di Santa Croce) is a distinguished institution located in Rome, Italy, known for its commitment to academic excellence and the formation of well-rounded individuals. Established in 1984, the university is anchored in the Catholic tradition and emphasizes the integration of faith and reason in its educational approach. Its motto, “Veritas et Caritas,” which translates to “Truth and Charity,” reflects the core values that guide the institution's mission to cultivate moral and intellectual leaders.

The University of Holy Cross offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in fields such as theology, philosophy, and social sciences. The faculty is composed of highly qualified professors who are not only educators but also practitioners in their respective fields, providing students with a rich learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. The university fosters a vibrant campus culture characterized by a strong sense of community and active student involvement in various extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and volunteer opportunities. This supportive environment helps students grow personally and professionally, preparing them for successful careers and meaningful lives after graduation.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention

The data from the University of Holy Cross reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a consistent increase, rising from $9,950 in 2014 to $16,160 in 2024. This nearly 62% increase in tuition can be a considerable burden for students and their families, especially in light of the rising student debt crisis across the United States.

In terms of academic performance, the graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has fluctuated, showing a slight improvement from 5.88% in 2013 to 15.63% in 2023. While this is a positive trend, the overall rates remain alarmingly low, indicating that many students may struggle to complete their degrees in a timely manner. Moreover, the retention rate has shown some resilience, hovering around 70% in recent years, which suggests that a majority of students are choosing to continue their education at the university despite the challenges they face.

The gender distribution among undergraduate students has also evolved, with the percentage of male students increasing from approximately 16.5% in 2014 to about 27.5% in 2023. This shift indicates a changing demographic landscape that may influence campus culture and academic dynamics.

Overall, while the University of Holy Cross demonstrates efforts to retain students and improve graduation rates, the rising tuition costs remain a significant challenge that could impact accessibility and enrollment in the future. As higher education institutions grapple with financial pressures, balancing affordability with quality education will be paramount for attracting and retaining students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
New Orleans, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), about 15 mi
New Orleans, Louisiana
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Dr. Stanton F. McNeely III (President)
Phone
5043947744
City
New Orleans, Louisiana
Address
4123 Woodland Drive, New Orleans, LA 70131-7399

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
78.7%
Women
71.2%

In 2020: men 27.9%, women 33.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at University of Holy Cross

The admission data for the University of Holy Cross reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants reached a peak of 100% in 2013, indicating a particularly lenient admission policy during that year. In contrast, the male acceptance rate in 2023 was much lower at approximately 84%, suggesting a tightening of admissions criteria, likely in response to increased competition and a desire to enhance the university's academic profile.
For female applicants, the admission rates have also varied considerably, with the lowest recorded acceptance rate of about 27.9% in 2020. This year was particularly challenging for many institutions, influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional admission processes and created uncertainty for prospective students. Interestingly, the data shows a steady increase in female admission rates in the subsequent years, culminating in a rate of roughly 88.2% in 2023, which may reflect ongoing efforts to increase gender diversity on campus.
The enrollment numbers have also exhibited volatility, with a peak of 120 students in 2019 but a notable drop to just 36 in 2023. This decline could be linked to several factors, including demographic shifts and changing perceptions of value in higher education. Moreover, the number of students deferred has remained substantial, particularly in 2022, where nearly 1,000 students were deferred, highlighting a significant backlog in admissions processing.
Overall, these trends underscore the dynamic nature of university admissions and the various external factors that influence them. As institutions like the University of Holy Cross navigate these challenges, understanding these patterns will be crucial for future strategic planning and recruitment efforts.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Data at University of Holy Cross

The data from the University of Holy Cross reveals a consistent trend in the percentage of admitted students submitting standardized test scores, particularly for the ACT. Over several years, the proportion of applicants providing their ACT scores has remained notably high, peaking at 92% in 2017. This suggests a strong reliance on ACT scores for admissions decisions, which may reflect both the institution's admissions strategy and the broader trends in standardized testing during this period.

While the number of students submitting scores has fluctuated, it is clear that the university has seen a gradual decline in the percentage of applicants submitting scores since 2017, dropping to 77% by 2022 and 2023. This could indicate a shift in applicant behavior, possibly influenced by the growing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies, which gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, the absence of SAT scores in the data for several years suggests that the University of Holy Cross may not prioritize SAT results in its admissions process or that applicants are increasingly opting for the ACT instead. The lack of data on SAT results indicates a trend that could reflect broader changes in standardized testing preferences among prospective college students.

In conclusion, the data underscores a significant reliance on ACT scores at the University of Holy Cross, with a noticeable trend towards fewer applicants submitting scores in recent years. This shift could have implications for future admissions strategies, especially in an evolving landscape where test-optional policies are becoming more common.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,116 applicants in 2025, 73.7% admitted

822 admitted 294 not admitted Yield 6.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate50 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's810 international (0.0%)
Master's540 international (0.0%)
Doctoral380 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
35
Organizational Leadership
9
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
5
Accounting
4
Electroneurodiagnostic/Electroencephalographic Technology/Technologist
4
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer
4
Behavioral Sciences
3
Psychology, General
3
Public Health, General
3
English Language and Literature, General
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Psychology, Other · Doctoral28 (0% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's18 (0% international)
  • Education, Other · Doctoral10 (0% international)
  • Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's5 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at University of Holy Cross

The graduation data from the University of Holy Cross highlights significant trends, particularly in the fields of health and education. The Registered Nursing program stands out with 34 graduates, reflecting the growing demand for healthcare professionals. This surge in nursing graduates aligns with national trends, where healthcare careers are increasingly prioritized due to an aging population and ongoing public health challenges.

In the realm of psychology, the program has yielded substantial results, especially in the master's level with 25 graduates. This indicates a strong interest in mental health services, a field that has gained immense attention in recent years, especially in the wake of global events that have heightened awareness of mental health issues. The absence of international students in these programs may suggest a need for broader outreach or support for aspiring international candidates.

Education also showcases a strong representation, with a variety of programs producing graduates. Notably, Educational Leadership and Administration has seen a notable number of master's degrees awarded, highlighting the importance of leadership in educational settings. However, the data reveals a gap in undergraduate programs, which may reflect challenges in attracting students to these fields.

Interestingly, the data on international students shows no representation across most programs, which could be an area for potential growth. Universities often benefit from the diversity that international students bring, not just in cultural perspectives but also in enriching the academic environment.

Overall, the data from the University of Holy Cross reveals a focused commitment to health and education, highlighting both opportunities and areas for improvement, particularly in attracting a more diverse student body.

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 79 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Hospital and Health Care Facilities Administration/Management.-
Electroneurodiagnostic/Electroencephalographic Technology/Technologist.-
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.-
Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies.-
Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.$48,428
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.$48,428
Public Health, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$78,003
Educationhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Curriculum and Instruction.$57,239
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.-
Education, Other.-
Psychology has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Psychology, Other.$74,887
Businesshas 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Operations Management and Supervision.-
Organizational Leadership.-
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Theology has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Behavioral Sciences.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Liberal arts has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
General Studies.-
Biologyhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biomedical Sciences, General.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-

Students

802 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 15:85 · Freshman retention 71.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (471)

White
187 · 39.7%
Black
138 · 29.3%
Hispanic
66 · 14.0%
Unknown
32 · 6.8%
Two or more races
23 · 4.9%
Asian
16 · 3.4%

Data insights

Student Demographics at the University of Holy Cross in 2023

The student demographic data from the University of Holy Cross in 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there is a noteworthy gender imbalance, with only 15.6% of students identifying as male, compared to a substantial 84.4% identifying as female. This trend continues among upperclassmen, where male representation remains low at 16.5%.

The data also highlights the diversity of the student population, particularly among graduate students, where 17.9% are male and 82.1% are female. The overall enrollment numbers indicate a healthy interest in higher education, but the gender ratios raise questions about the factors influencing these disparities.

Additionally, it is important to note the breakdown of racial and ethnic backgrounds within the student population, although specific percentages were not provided for all categories. The representation of different ethnic groups is crucial as universities strive for inclusivity and equitable representation.

This demographic composition mirrors broader trends observed in higher education, where enrollment of female students has been rising steadily over the years, often outpacing that of male students. This phenomenon can be attributed to various social and economic factors, including changing career aspirations and increased support for women's education.

Overall, the University of Holy Cross's demographic data prompts further exploration into the reasons behind these trends and the steps that can be taken to enhance gender balance and diversity in the student body.

Analysis of Age Distribution at University of Holy Cross in 2023

The age distribution data at the University of Holy Cross reveals a diverse student body, with a notable concentration of younger students. The largest group of students under 18 consists of 293 individuals, with a higher proportion of females (170) compared to males (123), indicating a trend that may reflect broader societal patterns in educational pursuits among young women.

In the 18-19 age category, there are 113 students, with a significant gender disparity as well; 84 females compared to 29 males, suggesting that the university attracts more female students during these formative years. Interestingly, as we move into the 20-21 age range, the numbers remain relatively balanced, though still favoring females.

The age brackets of 22-24 and 25-29 show a shift in demographics, with a higher number of graduate students, particularly among females, suggesting that these age groups may be more inclined to pursue advanced studies. However, the male population at the graduate level is quite limited, especially in the younger categories, which might reflect the increasing trend of females enrolling in higher education.

The presence of older students, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 categories, highlights the university's appeal to non-traditional students seeking to further their education later in life. This trend may be influenced by the current job market, where lifelong learning is becoming increasingly essential.

Overall, the data illustrates a university environment that is supportive of both traditional and non-traditional students, with a notable female majority that aligns with national trends in higher education. This shift could influence future academic programs and support services to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all age groups.

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.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.1%2017: 0.0%2018: 1.2%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.5%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.6%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of Holy Cross

The data concerning international student enrollment at the University of Holy Cross reveals interesting trends over the years 2016 and 2018. In 2016, the total undergraduate enrollment was 915, with only one international student, resulting in a mere 0.11% of the undergraduate population. This figure is indicative of a relatively low interest in the university among international students at that time.

By 2018, a notable increase in the number of international undergraduate students is observed, rising to 11, which corresponds to 1.21% of the undergraduate population. This growth, while still modest, reflects a positive trend towards greater international appeal and the university's efforts to attract a more diverse student body.

In the graduate program, the statistics are somewhat more promising. In 2016, there was one international student out of 220 graduate students, yielding a 0.45% representation. By 2018, this number increased to two international students among 334 graduate students, resulting in a 0.60% representation. Although these figures are still low, the upward trajectory suggests that the university may be gradually enhancing its reputation and reach in the global academic community.

Overall, the modest yet consistent increase in international student enrollment in both undergraduate and graduate programs highlights the University of Holy Cross's potential for growth in this area. As universities worldwide continue to compete for international talent, it will be crucial for the university to strengthen its international outreach and support services to further increase these numbers in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$28,378

Undergraduate tuition
$16,576
Room and board
$11,802
Graduate tuition
$15,406
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 44% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$14.8M

Tuition and fees
$10.6M71.3%
Investment return
$2.3M15.4%
Gifts and private grants
$943K6.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$459K3.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$293K2.0%
Government grants and contracts
$241K1.6%

Expenses$16.3M

Instruction
$6.9M42.3%
Institutional support
$6.5M39.8%
Academic support
$1.1M6.5%
Student services
$740K4.5%
Scholarships
$687K4.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$413K2.5%

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
$69,224peers $68,006
Professor
$70,509peers $78,041
Associate professor
$64,082peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$71,496peers $63,827
Instructor
$59,840peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities around the University of Holy Cross:

  1. Tulane University of Louisiana - Ranked 73rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Tulane is a prestigious research university located in New Orleans, known for its strong programs in law, business, and public health.

  2. Loyola University New Orleans - With a ranking of 260, Loyola is a private Jesuit university that emphasizes liberal arts education, service, and social justice.

  3. Louisiana State University - This university ranks 185th and is a major public research university in Baton Rouge, known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.

  4. The University of Alabama - Ranked 170th, this university is recognized for its strong academic programs and rich traditions, particularly in the fields of business, law, and engineering.

  5. University of Houston - With a ranking of 133, the University of Houston is a major public research institution known for its diverse academic offerings and research initiatives.

  6. Rice University - A prestigious university ranked 17th, Rice is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and high academic standards, particularly in science and engineering.

These institutions contribute significantly to the educational landscape in and around New Orleans, 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
1
Liquor referrals
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 Holy Cross

The crime data from the University of Holy Cross over the past decade presents a largely positive picture regarding campus safety. From 2013 to 2022, the university reported zero incidents of crime for several years, indicating a stable and secure environment for students and staff. The year 2017 marked a slight uptick with three recorded incidents, translating to a crime rate of 2.88 per 1,000 students, which is significantly low compared to many other institutions across the country.

In subsequent years, the crime rate remained minimal, with only one incident occurring in 2019 and two in 2020, yielding rates of 0.80 and 1.82 per 1,000 students, respectively. These figures suggest that while there were minor fluctuations, the overall trend is one of low criminal activity, particularly when compared to national averages. This consistent low crime rate is crucial for fostering a safe educational environment, which can significantly impact student well-being and academic performance.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that the types of crimes reported include serious offenses, such as gun-related incidents; however, these occurrences were isolated and did not signal a broader problem. The absence of crime in the years 2018, 2021, and 2022 further reinforces the notion of a safe campus.

Overall, the data reflects a commendable commitment to maintaining a secure campus environment. As educational institutions strive to enhance their safety protocols, the University of Holy Cross stands out as a case study in successful crime reduction strategies. For more information on crime rate calculations, please visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

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.