Mount St. Mary’s University
Acceptance rate
73.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$48,630
$63,680 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,830
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
56.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 64.7%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Mount St. Mary's University, located in Emmitsburg, Maryland, is a prestigious institution known for its rich history and commitment to liberal arts education. Established in 1808, it is one of the oldest Catholic universities in the United States, and it emphasizes the values of faith, scholarship, and service. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Spiritus et Veritas," meaning "Spirit and Truth," which reflects its dedication to nurturing the whole person through a blend of academic rigor and spiritual development.
The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with strong emphasis on liberal arts, business, education, and health sciences. Its picturesque campus, set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, provides a serene environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Mount St. Mary's is also known for its vibrant campus life, featuring a variety of student organizations, leadership opportunities, and athletic programs. The university's strong emphasis on community service helps students develop a sense of responsibility and commitment to social justice, preparing them for successful careers and meaningful lives. With a supportive faculty and a focus on student success, Mount St. Mary’s University continues to be a nurturing ground for future leaders and changemakers.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Mount St. Mary's University
Mount St. Mary's University has experienced significant changes in several critical metrics over the years. One of the most notable trends is the rise in tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition increased from $34,644 to $47,240, representing an increase of approximately 36%. This surge in tuition reflects a broader trend across many private institutions, where rising operational costs and decreased state funding have pushed institutions to raise tuition to maintain quality education.
In terms of student retention, the university has seen fluctuations that are concerning. The retention rate for undergraduate students decreased from around 80% in 2013 to approximately 68% in 2023. This decline suggests challenges in maintaining student satisfaction and support, which could have long-term implications on the university's graduation rates and overall reputation.
Graduation rates have also varied during this period. The on-time graduation rate fell from about 69% in 2013 to 58% in 2023. This decrease may indicate issues with academic support or student engagement, which are crucial for timely graduation. A lower graduation rate can adversely affect the university's rankings and attractiveness to prospective students.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 12 to 14 students per faculty member. While a consistent ratio can be beneficial for maintaining personalized attention, it is essential for the university to ensure that faculty are adequately supported to provide the necessary guidance and mentorship to students, particularly in light of declining retention and graduation rates.
These metrics highlight the ongoing challenges Mount St. Mary's University faces as it navigates the complexities of higher education in today's environment. Addressing these issues will be critical for the institution's future success and sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Baltimore, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), about 50 mi
- Also known as
- Mount St. Mary's, The Mount, Mount Saint Mary's University, Mount Saint Mary's
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Gerard J. Joyce (President)
- Phone
- 3014476122
- City
- Emmitsburg, Maryland
- Address
- 16300 Old Emmitsburg Road, Emmitsburg, MD 21727-7799
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 75.6%, women 74.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Mount St. Mary's University
The admission data from Mount St. Mary's University reflects significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate saw a decline from approximately 80.5% to around 79.9%, while the female acceptance rate decreased from about 76.3% to 79.3%. This indicates a relatively stable admission environment for female applicants, which may suggest efforts to maintain gender equity in the student body.
Enrollment numbers peaked in 2021 with 647 new students, possibly influenced by the pandemic's impact on higher education, where many students sought stable and supportive learning environments. However, in subsequent years, the enrollment figures have varied, with a notable drop to 459 in 2023. This could reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are navigating post-pandemic challenges, including shifts in student preferences and financial constraints.
Additionally, the number of denied applications fluctuated significantly, with the highest recorded in 2013 at 2,353 denials. This high number of denials could indicate a more competitive application process, which may have contributed to the increase in deferments noted in later years.
Overall, the data suggests that Mount St. Mary's University has been maintaining a balance in its admissions process, although external factors such as economic conditions and societal shifts may continue to influence applicant behavior and university strategies in the coming years.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 13% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends and Observations in Admission Test Scores at Mount St. Mary's University
The admission test score data from Mount St. Mary's University over the years reveals interesting trends regarding the academic performance of prospective students. Starting from 2007, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores remained consistently high, often exceeding 80%. However, by 2023, only 22% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, indicating a significant reduction in reliance on this standardized test as part of the admissions process.
In terms of score ranges, there has been a notable evolution. The reading section's lower quartile score has generally remained around the mid-480s to mid-500s for most years, while the upper quartile scores have gradually increased, reaching 640 by 2023. This suggests that the university is attracting students with stronger academic backgrounds as time goes on. Similarly, the mathematics scores have shown an upward trend, reflecting an overall improvement in the mathematical competencies of admitted students.
Interestingly, the transition to more holistic admissions processes may explain the declining submission rates of standardized test scores. Many universities are moving towards evaluating applicants based on a wider array of criteria, including high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. This shift aligns with national trends where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies.
In conclusion, the data indicates that Mount St. Mary's University is not only witnessing an increasing caliber of admitted students in terms of academic performance but is also part of a broader movement in higher education towards more inclusive and comprehensive admissions practices.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
6,041 applicants in 2025, 73.8% admitted
4,459 admitted 1,582 not admitted Yield 12.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's70 (14% international)
- Applied Behavior Analysis · Master's30 (0% international)
- Divinity/Ministry · Master's23 (22% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, Other · Master's15 (0% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's14 (7% international)
- Biotechnology · Master's12 (8% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Mount St. Mary's University
The graduation data from Mount St. Mary's University reveals intriguing trends across various disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, the Business and Commerce fields dominate the bachelor’s degree completions, with a total of 95 graduates, showing a robust interest in business-related studies which align with current global economic trends. This could be indicative of the increasing demand for business professionals in a recovering job market post-pandemic.
Interestingly, the data highlights a significant number of international students pursuing master's degrees, particularly in Business Administration and Management, with 4 international graduates. This trend reflects the university's appeal to global students seeking advanced education in business, which could be bolstered by the university's strategic initiatives to attract diverse talent.
In addition, the data shows low graduation numbers in specialized fields such as Environmental Studies, which only produced 4 graduates. This could raise concerns about the prioritization of sustainability and environmental issues in higher education, especially given the current global climate crisis.
Moreover, the relatively higher graduation rates in Theology and Psychology suggest a continuing interest in the social sciences and humanities, possibly influenced by the societal upheavals and mental health awareness heightened by the pandemic.
Lastly, the absence of graduates in several fields, particularly in the arts and foreign languages, may point towards shifting educational preferences, possibly driven by job market considerations. Overall, this data provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of higher education and the priorities of emerging graduates.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $55,160 | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $81,039 | ||
| Accounting. | $60,553 | ||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $50,067-$55,285 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $50,067-$55,285 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Social Science Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - | ||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Biotechnology. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | $36,180 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $45,939 | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $42,655-$51,188 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $85,315 | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $67,927 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $55,593 | ||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $55,593 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Community Services. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||
| Data Science, General. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $36,880 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
Students
2,408 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 70.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,137
- First-year undergraduates 545
- Graduate students 578
- Transfers and others 148
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,830)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Mount St. Mary's University in 2023
The student body at Mount St. Mary's University in 2023 exhibits a diverse range of demographics, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 459, with a gender distribution that shows a slight female majority at 52.5%. Continuing undergraduate students number 1,306, also with a female majority at 53.1%. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent with national statistics, where women have been enrolling in higher education at higher rates than men in recent years.
Interestingly, the transfer student population is relatively small, with only 59 students, exhibiting a near gender balance with 50.8% males and 49.2% females. This indicates that Mount St. Mary's may have a more stable undergraduate retention rate, as fewer students are transferring in compared to traditional undergraduate populations.
Graduate students comprise 560 individuals, with a notable male majority at 55.2%. This is particularly pertinent as graduate programs often attract a different demographic compared to undergraduate studies, possibly due to career advancement motivations and professional requirements.
In the context of racial and ethnic diversity, the breakdown shows a significant representation of white students across all categories, suggesting the need for continued efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion within the campus community. As universities across the nation strive to enhance their diversity initiatives, Mount St. Mary's University is positioned to reflect on its current demographics and explore strategies to create a more inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Mount St. Mary's University
The age distribution of students at Mount St. Mary's University in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic that reflects broader trends in higher education. The majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the 18-21 age range, with a significant number of both male and female students in the 18-19 and 20-21 categories. Specifically, approximately 46.5% of all students fall within the 18-19 age group, while 46.4% are in the 20-21 range, indicating a strong presence of traditional college-aged individuals.
Interestingly, older age groups, particularly those aged 22-24, show a mix of both undergraduate and graduate students, with graduate males significantly outnumbering their female counterparts in this category. This could suggest a trend where men are more likely to pursue postgraduate studies at this institution, which could be an area for further exploration to understand the underlying factors.
Furthermore, the data highlights a notable presence of students aged 25-29 and beyond, indicating that Mount St. Mary's University accommodates non-traditional students, which is a growing trend in higher education. This aligns with national statistics showing that adult learners are increasingly seeking higher education to enhance their careers or change their professional paths.
Overall, the age composition at Mount St. Mary's University showcases a vibrant academic community that embraces both traditional and non-traditional learners, reflecting the changing landscape of higher education where diverse age groups contribute to a rich learning environment.
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.
89 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
37 in 2025 · 3.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Mount St. Mary's University
The data on international students at Mount St. Mary's University illustrates a notable evolution over the years, particularly in the undergraduate segment. The proportion of international students among undergraduates has shown a significant increase from 0.56% in 2004 to 3.80% in 2023. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions are actively seeking to diversify their student bodies and enhance their global presence.
The graduate program has also experienced a rise in international enrollment, albeit at a slower pace. The percentage of international graduate students increased from 2.36% in 2004 to 6.43% in 2023. This trend could be attributed to the growing number of academic programs that appeal to international students, coupled with the university's efforts to improve its reputation and outreach in global markets.
It is essential to consider the implications of these trends. Increasing international student enrollment can enrich the campus culture, foster cross-cultural understanding, and provide local students with a broader perspective. However, it also poses challenges, such as the need for adequate support systems to help international students acclimate and succeed.
Moreover, the fluctuations in enrollment numbers over the years may indicate external factors influencing international student mobility, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and geopolitical issues. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, significantly impacted international student travel and enrollment patterns.
In conclusion, Mount St. Mary's University has made commendable strides in attracting international students, which is crucial for its growth and sustainability in the competitive landscape of higher education. Continued efforts to enhance the international student experience will be vital for maintaining and further increasing these numbers in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$63,680
- Undergraduate tuition
- $48,630
- Room and board
- $15,050
- Graduate tuition
- $14,351
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 21%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$94.6M
Expenses$86.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 180 | 138 |
| Other Sports | 74 | 49 |
| Soccer | 47 | 29 |
| Lacrosse | 46 | 28 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Swimming | 27 | 24 |
| Water Polo | 29 | 21 |
| Basketball | 15 | 22 |
| Tennis | 14 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Bowling | - | 11 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 142 | 132 |
| Lacrosse | 49 | 29 |
| Soccer | 27 | 25 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 27 | 24 |
| Water Polo | 24 | 22 |
| Baseball | 45 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 37 |
| Basketball | 15 | 18 |
| Tennis | 15 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Bowling | - | 8 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 155 | 122 |
| Lacrosse | 55 | 29 |
| Soccer | 29 | 31 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 22 | 27 |
| Other Sports | - | 47 |
| Water Polo | 23 | 21 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 13 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 14 | 12 |
| Golf | 12 | 6 |
| Bowling | - | 11 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 12.3 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 36.9 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 45.9 mi
U.S. News #9
-
University of Maryland-College ParkCollege Park · 52.6 mi
U.S. News #49
-
American UniversityWashington · 53.4 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Howard UniversityWashington · 55.4 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Georgetown UniversityWashington · 55.4 mi
U.S. News #23
-
George Washington UniversityWashington · 56.4 mi
U.S. News #59
-
George Mason UniversityFairfax · 58.8 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Mount St. Mary's University:
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Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 9th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious university is known for its research programs and is located in Baltimore, Maryland.
-
Georgetown University - With a rank of 22, Georgetown is renowned for its strong programs in international relations, law, and business, situated in Washington, D.C.
-
University of Maryland-College Park - This public research university ranks 46th and is recognized for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life.
-
Dickinson College - Ranked 46th among liberal arts colleges, Dickinson focuses on global education and sustainability, located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - This liberal arts college ranks 35th and is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
These institutions offer a range of programs and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Mount St. Mary's University
The crime statistics at Mount St. Mary's University over the past decade reveal some interesting trends. In 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students was quite high at 17.87, but it fluctuated significantly over the years. Notably, the peak occurred in 2015 with a rate of 24.03, indicating a concerning period for campus safety. However, this was followed by a sharp decline in 2016 to 12.14, illustrating that measures taken to improve campus security may have been effective.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in crime rates, with 2023 recording an average of 19.06 per 1,000 students. This highlights the ongoing challenges that the university faces in maintaining a safe environment for students. Specifically, the arrests related to substance abuse, including drug and alcohol-related offenses, continue to be a significant concern, as these types of incidents often correlate with larger safety issues on campus.
Moreover, the data reveals that violent crimes, such as assault and domestic violence, also contribute to the overall crime rates. It is crucial for university administration to focus on prevention strategies, including education on personal safety and support for victims, to help reduce these incidents.
As crime rates can impact student enrollment and overall campus morale, it is essential for Mount St. Mary's University to continue addressing these issues proactively. The broader context of college safety in the U.S. indicates that many institutions are grappling with similar challenges, making it imperative for universities to adopt comprehensive safety measures. For further information on how crime rates are calculated, please visit: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Mount St. Mary’s University include Francisco I. Madero (Mexican revolutionary leader and 37th president), Edward Douglass White Jr. (Ninth Chief Justice of the United States) and John La Farge (Painter and stained-glass artist).
-
Francisco I. Madero 1873–1913
Mexican revolutionary leader and 37th president
-
Edward Douglass White Jr. 1845–1921
Ninth Chief Justice of the United States
-
John La Farge 1835–1910
Painter and stained-glass artist
-
Peter Rono 1967–
Kenyan runner, 1988 Olympic 1500m champion
-
John McCloskey 1810–1885
First American-born Archbishop of New York
-
John Lawrence LeConte 1825–1883
Entomologist and pioneer of beetle classification
-
William E. Lori 1951–
Catholic archbishop of Baltimore
-
Paul Stagg Coakley 1955–
Catholic Archbishop of Oklahoma City
-
Michael Augustine Corrigan 1839–1902
Third Archbishop of New York
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.