Madonna University
Acceptance rate
63.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$28,440
$41,280 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,828
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
26.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.6%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Madonna University, located in Livonia, Michigan, is a private Catholic university renowned for its commitment to providing a holistic education grounded in the values of the Catholic faith. Founded in 1947 by the Felician Sisters, the university emphasizes a nurturing and inclusive environment. The university’s mission is guided by its motto, "Caritas et Veritas," which translates to "Charity and Truth," encapsulating its dedication to service, social justice, and academic excellence. Madonna University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in health sciences, education, and business administration, preparing students for successful careers in their chosen fields.
The campus of Madonna University is characterized by its beautiful green spaces and modern facilities, including well-equipped laboratories, a comprehensive library, and state-of-the-art athletic facilities. The university fosters a vibrant campus culture, encouraging students to engage in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service. Madonna’s emphasis on service-learning allows students to connect their academic experiences with real-world applications, promoting personal growth and social responsibility. The university also boasts a supportive faculty, with dedicated professors who prioritize student success and mentorship. Madonna University's strong alumni network further enhances students' career prospects, as graduates often find rewarding employment opportunities in their respective industries.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Madonna University
The tuition costs at Madonna University have shown a steady upward trend over the past decade, with undergraduate tuition increasing from $16,340 in 2014 to $27,360 in 2024, reflecting a 67.6% increase. This consistent rise in tuition can pose a significant barrier for potential students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, and may contribute to the decline in enrollment numbers observed over the same period. The number of undergraduate students has decreased from 3,352 in 2014 to just 1,766 in 2023, indicating a worrying trend that could impact the university's financial stability and diversity.
Additionally, the graduation rates depict a mixed picture. The percentage of students graduating on time (within 100% of the expected duration) fluctuated, peaking at 36.6% in 2020 but dropping to approximately 30.7% in 2023. This inconsistency in graduation rates raises concerns about the university’s ability to support students throughout their academic journeys. The 150% graduation rate, which accounts for students who take longer to complete their degrees, also shows variability but remains higher than the on-time graduation rate at around 57.2% in 2023.
On another note, the retention rate for undergraduates has varied over the years, dropping to a low of 67.9% in 2022 but bouncing back to 76.5% in 2023. This suggests that while some students may struggle to persist at the university, there are factors that can encourage retention, such as improved support services or campus engagement initiatives.
Overall, the combination of rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation and retention rates presents challenges for Madonna University. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university to maintain its academic integrity and support its student body effectively.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Detroit, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 10 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. B Christopher Dougherty (President)
- Phone
- 7344325300
- Address
- 36600 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia, MI 48150-1176
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 74.5%, women 74.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Madonna University's Admission Trends
Over the years, Madonna University has experienced significant fluctuations in its admission rates and overall enrollment trends. The data shows a general decline in both male and female admission rates from 2009 to 2023. For instance, the male admission rate started at approximately 78.65% in 2009, but this figure plummeted to around 57.52% by 2023. Similarly, female admission rates peaked at 80.36% in 2019 before declining to 69.42% in 2023.
The number of enrollments also reflects these trends, with a peak enrollment of 281 students in 2021, followed by a decrease to 249 students in 2023. Notably, the number of denied applicants surged, especially in 2022 and 2023, indicating a more competitive admission process during these years.
The trend of deferrals is also noteworthy, with a considerable increase in the number of students deferring their admission, peaking at 1,040 in 2023. This could suggest a growing uncertainty among prospective students regarding their immediate enrollment, possibly influenced by broader societal factors such as economic conditions or the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, while Madonna University has maintained a relatively high acceptance rate historically, the recent data indicates a tightening of admissions, which could affect its diversity and student body dynamics in the coming years. The university will need to navigate these challenges carefully to sustain its appeal to prospective students.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
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 · 23% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Madonna University
The admissions data from Madonna University over the years shows significant fluctuations in both the number of students submitting standardized test scores and the corresponding performance metrics. Starting from 2007, the data indicates a gradual increase in the number of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores, peaking around 2019 and 2020, where over 80% of applicants provided SAT scores. This rise may reflect a growing awareness of the importance of standardized test scores in college admissions, possibly influenced by national trends emphasizing standardized testing.
In terms of performance, the SAT and ACT score ranges for admitted students demonstrate variability. For instance, from 2010 to 2018, the range of SAT scores shifted, allowing for a broader acceptance pool. The middle 50% SAT reading scores reflected a notable range from 300 to 670, indicating a diverse academic background among admitted students. This diversity is essential for enriching the learning environment, as students bring varying perspectives and experiences to the campus.
Moreover, the data suggests a potential shift in admissions strategies, particularly as the university faces increasing competition from other institutions that may adopt test-optional policies. The recent years show a consistent trend of applicants with lower percentages submitting scores, indicating a possible move towards more holistic admissions processes that consider a candidate's entire profile.
Overall, the trends in admissions data at Madonna University reveal a dynamic interplay between standardized testing and the changing landscape of higher education admissions, warranting close observation by prospective students and academic institutions alike.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,535 applicants in 2025, 63.4% admitted
973 admitted 562 not admitted Yield 25.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Social Work · Master's26 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's19 (5% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's17 (59% international)
- Adult Health Nurse/Nursing · Master's9 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's7 (0% international)
- Dietetics/Dietitian · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Madonna University 2023
The graduation data from Madonna University in 2023 reveals interesting trends in various academic programs. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a significant number of graduates, totaling 233 bachelor's degrees awarded. This could reflect the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, as the ongoing global health challenges have emphasized the need for well-trained nurses.
In contrast, Criminal Justice/Safety Studies and Social Work programs produced only 37 and 0 bachelor's degrees, respectively. The minimal output from the Social Work program might indicate either a lack of enrollment or challenges within the program itself. With the current societal focus on social justice and community welfare, this low number is concerning as it signifies a potential gap in social services.
Furthermore, there were no master's or doctorate degrees awarded in the majority of the programs listed, which raises questions about the academic structure and support for advanced studies. The absence of graduate-level degrees in areas like Biology and Psychology suggests that these fields may not be fostering research or specialized training at higher levels, which is critical for academic growth and professional advancement.
Interestingly, the data shows a small representation of international students graduating, particularly in nursing, which could highlight opportunities for increasing diversity in these critical fields. As global education trends shift, universities may want to consider strategies to attract more international students, particularly in programs with evident workforce demand.
Overall, the graduation data presents a mixed picture of academic performance at Madonna University, demonstrating both strengths in healthcare education and potential weaknesses in others. The university may need to reassess its offerings and support systems to enhance graduation outcomes across all disciplines.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||||
| Dietetics/Dietitian. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $80,574-$107,708 | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | $80,574-$107,708 | ||||
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. | $80,574-$107,708 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $80,574-$107,708 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $80,574-$107,708 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,927-$75,715 | ||||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $54,927-$75,715 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $54,927-$75,715 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,813 | ||||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - | ||||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | $39,557-$41,624 | ||||
| Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysis. | $39,557-$41,624 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $55,442-$55,683 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Animal Behavior and Ethology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Clinical Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - | ||||
| Voice and Opera. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $40,065 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Sign Language (ASL). | $38,125 | ||||
| Sign Language Interpretation and Translation. | $38,125 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Child Development. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - | ||||
| Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - | ||||
| Social Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerontology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
Students
2,124 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 71.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,130
- First-year undergraduates 244
- Graduate students 296
- Transfers and others 454
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,828)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Madonna University in 2023
The student body at Madonna University in 2023 showcases a diverse demographic profile, with various categories of students contributing to the overall population. The data reveals that undergraduate freshmen make up a significant portion of the student body, totaling 249 individuals. Notably, the gender distribution indicates a higher representation of female students, with 59% being female and 41% being male. This trend is consistent across the undergraduate and graduate categories, where females hold a majority.
In the undergraduate junior category, the figures are even more striking, with 1,191 students, of which 65.2% are female. This suggests a potential shift in enrollment trends that may favor female students in higher education, reflecting broader societal changes regarding gender roles in academia. Furthermore, the undergraduate transfer students and graduate students also show a similar pattern of higher female representation, with 69.2% and 76.4% females, respectively.
The data on ethnic diversity within the student population is particularly insightful. While specific numbers were not provided for the newer cohorts, the representation of different ethnic groups is crucial in understanding the university's inclusivity. The university's commitment to diversity can be inferred from the student body composition, which includes various ethnic categories such as White, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, and African American students.
Overall, Madonna University's student demographic data for 2023 highlights a significant presence of female students across all categories and suggests a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment. These trends may reflect broader national patterns in higher education, where increasing numbers of women are pursuing advanced degrees and contributing to a more diverse academic community.
Analysis of Age Composition at Madonna University
The age distribution data from Madonna University for 2023 reveals significant insights into the student demographics. Notably, the largest cohort is found in the 18-19 age range, comprising 198 male undergraduates and 265 female undergraduates, indicating a strong influx of recent high school graduates. This trend aligns with national patterns where universities often see higher enrollment rates from younger students.
Interestingly, as students progress into their 20s, the number of males in undergraduate programs appears to decline slightly, while the number of females remains robust. This suggests a growing trend of female students pursuing higher education, a phenomenon observed across many institutions in recent years.
The age group of 22-24 shows an intriguing balance, with a notable presence of graduate males and females, suggesting that more students are opting to continue their education in pursuit of advanced degrees. This trend is particularly relevant in today’s job market, where advanced qualifications can lead to better employment opportunities.
The data also highlights the presence of non-traditional students, particularly those aged 25 and above, indicating that Madonna University attracts a diverse age range of students. This is essential in fostering an inclusive academic environment where varied perspectives contribute to a richer educational experience.
Overall, Madonna University's age composition reflects broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the importance of understanding demographic shifts in student populations as institutions adapt to meet the evolving needs of their student body.
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.
166 in 2025 · 15.9% in 2016
40 in 2025 · 14.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Madonna University
The data on international student enrollment at Madonna University reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in undergraduate and graduate programs. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen a notable increase, peaking at 16.26% in 2014. This spike can be attributed to the growing global interest in U.S. higher education, alongside the university's efforts to attract a diverse student body. However, the subsequent years indicate fluctuations, with the percentage stabilizing around 11% in the recent years.
In contrast, the graduate student enrollment figures present a more complex narrative. While the percentage of international graduate students rose to 14.09% in 2016, it has since declined significantly, reaching only 9.62% by 2023. This decline may reflect broader challenges in the U.S. educational landscape, including immigration policies that have made it more difficult for international students to study in the country, as well as increased competition from institutions in other countries.
Overall, the data suggests a resilient, yet evolving international student population at Madonna University. The fluctuations in enrollment percentages highlight the impact of external factors, such as global events and policy changes, on students' decisions to study abroad. As universities adapt to these changes, they must continue to promote inclusivity and support for international students to maintain a vibrant and diverse academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$41,280
- Undergraduate tuition
- $28,440
- Room and board
- $12,840
- Graduate tuition
- $18,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 52% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$40.5M
Expenses$47.1M
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 NAIA · Mid-States Football Association · Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference
Mid-States Football Association: football
Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 131 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 55 | 47 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 60 | 42 |
| Soccer | 43 | 55 |
| Basketball | 35 | 38 |
| Lacrosse | 46 | 25 |
| Baseball | 64 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 44 |
| Softball | - | 37 |
| Volleyball | - | 35 |
| Golf | 13 | 17 |
| Bowling | 11 | 11 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 14 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 127 | - |
| Soccer | 50 | 54 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 53 | 34 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 53 | 34 |
| Basketball | 38 | 36 |
| Lacrosse | 40 | 23 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Softball | - | 43 |
| Golf | 15 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 30 |
| Bowling | 13 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 12 |
| Other Sports | - | 11 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 120 | - |
| Soccer | 61 | 55 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 64 | 44 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 58 | 39 |
| Basketball | 40 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 23 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Softball | - | 35 |
| Bowling | 17 | 14 |
| Volleyball | - | 26 |
| Cross Country | 15 | 8 |
| Golf | 12 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | 10 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Detroit MercyDetroit · 13.7 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Wayne State UniversityDetroit · 17.2 mi
U.S. News #186
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 18.4 mi
U.S. News #25
-
University of ToledoToledo · 51.2 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 59.6 mi
U.S. News #69
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 70.2 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
Bowling Green State University-Main CampusBowling Green · 70.8 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Oberlin CollegeOberlin · 97.1 mi
Liberal Arts #59
-
Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant · 108.4 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Madonna University:
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21st in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a prestigious research university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Wayne State University - With a rank of 201, Wayne State University is located in Detroit and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with a commitment to community service and engagement.
-
Michigan State University - Ranked 60th, Michigan State University is renowned for its research initiatives and diverse academic offerings, making it a prominent institution in the Midwest.
-
University of Notre Dame - This esteemed institution is ranked 20th and is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, along with a beautiful campus and a rich tradition of excellence.
-
Case Western Reserve University - With a rank of 53, this university is recognized for its leadership in research, particularly in the fields of engineering, business, and health sciences.
These universities provide a wide array of educational opportunities and contribute to a vibrant academic community in the region.
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 Data at Madonna University
The crime statistics for Madonna University over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the crime rates per 1,000 students. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate showed an overall upward trend, peaking in 2022 with a rate of 7.86 per 1,000 students. This spike may indicate a growing concern regarding safety on campus and could be linked to various sociocultural factors, including increased awareness and reporting of crimes.
In 2015, the data reflects a significant jump, where the crime rate reached 4.56 per 1,000 students, which might suggest a surge in incidents or a change in reporting practices. The following years show some fluctuation, with a dip in crime rates during 2019, 2020, and 2021, suggesting a potential stabilization of safety measures or effective crime prevention strategies during those years. However, the surge in 2022 followed by a high rate in 2023 raises questions about the underlying issues contributing to these incidents.
The breakdown of the types of crimes indicates a variety of offenses, including drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents. The prevalence of such arrests is concerning, as it points to possible substance abuse issues within the student body. Addressing these concerns through education and support programs could be beneficial.
Overall, while the data is alarming, it also presents an opportunity for Madonna University to enhance its safety protocols and foster a more secure environment for its students. The university must prioritize addressing these issues to ensure that students feel safe and supported on campus. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Madonna University include Kerry Bentivolio (Republican U.S. representative from Michigan), Shine Begho (Nigerian radio and television host) and John Vigilante (American professional ice hockey forward).
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Kerry Bentivolio 1951–
Republican U.S. representative from Michigan
-
Shine Begho 1985–
Nigerian radio and television host
-
John Vigilante 1985–2018
American professional ice hockey forward
-
Nora Chapa Mendoza 1932–
Painter named Michigan Artist of the Year
-
Vincent Gregory 1948–
Democratic member of the Michigan Senate
-
Ella Bully-Cummings 1958–
Former chief of the Detroit Police Department
-
Warren Evans 1938–
Wayne County executive, former Detroit police chief
-
Chris Dierker 1994–
Vietnamese American former professional basketball player
-
Catherine Waynick 1948–2025
10th Episcopal bishop of Indianapolis
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.