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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Rochester University

Rochester Hills, Michigan · rcu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

97.6%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$29,196

$39,682 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

1,161

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

17.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 39.1%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

The University of Rochester, founded in 1850, is a prestigious private research university located in Rochester, New York. Known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, the university offers a unique educational experience characterized by a flexible curriculum and a commitment to interdisciplinary learning. One of its defining features is the "Rochester Curriculum," which allows students to tailor their educational path according to their interests and career goals, fostering a culture of independence and critical thinking. The university is also home to a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and community service opportunities that enrich the student experience.

In terms of facilities, the University of Rochester boasts state-of-the-art research laboratories, libraries, and performance spaces, including the renowned Eastman School of Music, which is one of the leading music conservatories in the nation. The university's commitment to student well-being is evident through its various athletic programs and recreational facilities, promoting a balanced lifestyle. Additionally, the university has a strong focus on career development, providing students with ample internship and job placement opportunities, which contributes to its impressive graduate employment rates. The diverse and inclusive environment at the University of Rochester, along with its accomplished faculty and notable alumni, creates a dynamic atmosphere that inspires students to excel academically and personally.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Rochester University

Rochester University has exhibited significant trends in tuition costs, student demographics, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. One of the most striking trends is the continuous increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $19,920 to a projected $27,938, reflecting an increase of approximately 40%. This rising cost aligns with national trends in higher education, where tuition hikes have often outpaced inflation, leading many to question the affordability of college education.

In terms of student demographics, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shown slight shifts. In 2013, the percentage of male undergraduates was about 37.5%, which has increased to approximately 39.1% by 2023. This gradual increase in male enrollment may indicate changing dynamics in student recruitment or broader social trends impacting educational choices.

Graduation rates have also shown variability. The on-time graduation rate fluctuated significantly over the years, peaking at 28.9% in 2022 before falling to 24.6% in 2023. This inconsistency could be attributed to various factors such as student preparedness, financial pressures, or changes in academic standards, and it raises concerns about the effectiveness of support systems in place for students.

Retention rates present another critical aspect of student success. The retention rate for undergraduates has remained relatively stable, around 60% in recent years, suggesting that while students may enroll, maintaining their commitment through graduation remains a challenge. This persistence rate is crucial as it reflects the institution's ability to engage and support its students effectively.

Overall, while Rochester University continues to grow and adapt, the rising costs of tuition and fluctuating graduation rates highlight challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that higher education remains accessible and effective for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Detroit, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 35 mi
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Churches of Christ
President
Reggies Wenyika (President)
Phone
2482182011
City
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Address
800 West Avon Road, Rochester Hills, MI 48307

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
97.7%
Women
97.6%

In 2020: men 100.0%, women 100.0%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions and Rankings at Rochester University

The admission data from Rochester University over the years reveals significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the overall admission rate for males peaked at approximately 100% in 2018, 2019, and 2020, suggesting a unique circumstance during those years, possibly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many universities adopting more flexible admissions policies. Conversely, the female admission rates have consistently been high but did not reach the same extreme as their male counterparts.
In 2023, the university admitted 233 students while denying 266, indicating a competitive admission process, especially when compared to earlier years where the number of denied applicants was lower. This shift may reflect a larger pool of applicants or changes in the university's admission strategy, possibly in response to its fluctuating rankings. The data shows that the university’s ranking has varied, reaching a low point in 2015 with a significant drop in acceptance rates, highlighting the challenges faced during that period.
Overall, the admission trends at Rochester University illustrate the complexities of higher education admissions, influenced by external circumstances and internal policies. The fluctuating acceptance rates and the balance between enrollment and denial rates underscore the competitive nature of higher education today. As universities navigate these changes, they must adapt to maintain their standards while also being responsive to the needs of prospective students.

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

Trends in Admissions Scores at Rochester University

The data from Rochester University over the years illustrates an evolving landscape of standardized test scores and their significance in the admissions process. Starting from 2009, there is a noticeable trend in the submission of SAT and ACT scores by applicants, which peaked around 2018, when a significant 68% of applicants submitted SAT scores. This indicates an increasing reliance on standardized testing in the admissions process during that period.

The score ranges for the 25th and 75th percentiles provide insight into the academic qualifications of admitted students. For instance, in 2020, the SAT score range was between 440 and 540, highlighting a competitive admission environment. However, the ranges seem to maintain a degree of consistency across the years, suggesting that while applicant numbers may vary, the university's standards for admission are relatively stable.

Interestingly, despite fluctuations in the number and percentage of test submissions over the years, the overall admission requirements appear to remain stringent. The most recent years show that around 77% of admitted students have submitted their SAT scores, reflecting a commitment to maintaining high academic standards.

In the context of national discussions about the relevance of standardized tests in college admissions, the data from Rochester University raises questions about the future of such assessments. With many universities reevaluating their testing requirements, it will be intriguing to see how Rochester adapts to these changes while continuing to attract qualified candidates. The ongoing dialogue around equity in education underscores the need for institutions to balance academic rigor with inclusive admission practices.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

595 applicants in 2025, 97.6% admitted

581 admitted 14 not admitted Yield 22.2%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate180 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's2145 international (2.3%)
Master's112 international (18.2%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
54
Business Administration and Management, General
20
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
20
Psychology, General
19
Mass Communication/Media Studies
16
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
15
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
11
Accounting
8
Organizational Leadership
7
Elementary Education and Teaching
6

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Divinity/Ministry · Master's7 (14% international)
  • Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's4 (25% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Rochester University

The graduation data from Rochester University for the year 2023 reveals some intriguing trends within various disciplines. Notably, the largest number of graduates in bachelor's programs emerges from Early Childhood Education and Teaching, with 49 students completing their degrees. This suggests a strong interest and demand for professionals in early education, which aligns well with the growing emphasis on early childhood development in educational policy discussions.

In contrast, the data highlights a significant scarcity of international students graduating in bachelor's programs, with only three disciplines reporting any international graduates. This is particularly striking considering the global trend toward increasing international student enrollment in U.S. higher education. The presence of only one international graduate in psychology indicates potential barriers for international students in these programs.

Moreover, the data shows a noteworthy concentration of master's degrees in Divinity/Ministry, with 14 graduates. This could reflect an increasing trend toward pursuing advanced studies in theological fields, possibly influenced by a resurgence of interest in spirituality and community leadership roles in various sectors.

Interestingly, there is a complete absence of doctoral graduates across the majority of disciplines, which raises questions about the university's capacity for advanced research and the pathways available for students to pursue doctoral studies. This gap may impact the university's reputation in research-intensive fields and could influence prospective students' decisions.

Overall, the graduation data suggests distinct areas of strength and opportunity for Rochester University, highlighting the need for strategic initiatives to enhance international student recruitment and expand advanced degree offerings.

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

Educationhas 62 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.$42,064
Secondary Education and Teaching.$42,064
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$42,064
Businesshas 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$50,239
Organizational Leadership.$50,239
Accounting.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Financial Planning and Services.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$31,565
Health professionshas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$82,343
Psychology has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$30,875
Liberal arts has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Communication has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mass Communication/Media Studies.$39,248
Theology has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Divinity/Ministry.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Behavioral Sciences.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Biologyhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Neuroscience.-
Computer and information sciencehas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer Programming/Programmer, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Music Performance, General.-

Students

1,193 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 59.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,161)

White
734 · 63.2%
Black
159 · 13.7%
Unknown
105 · 9.0%
Hispanic
59 · 5.1%
Two or more races
37 · 3.2%
International
33 · 2.8%
Asian
23 · 2.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
28.6%
18–19
20.0%
20–21
21.0%
22–24
13.0%
25 and over
16.4%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
21.9%
25–29
18.8%
30–34
18.8%
35 and over
40.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Rochester University in 2023

In 2023, Rochester University showcases a diverse student body, with notable variations across different classifications. The data reveals that among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 233 students, with a male representation of 45.1% and female representation of 54.9%. This gender distribution indicates a healthier female presence, which is a positive trend in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.

Among the undergraduate juniors, the total number of students rises significantly to 523, with males making up 35.4% and females 64.6%. This consistent pattern of higher female representation could reflect broader societal shifts towards gender equity in education.

The undergraduate transfer students show a smaller group of 92 students, with a slightly higher male representation at 42.4%. Meanwhile, the graduate student population is notably smaller, consisting of just 27 students, yet this group exhibits a striking male dominance at 70.4%. This trend might suggest that certain graduate programs are still male-dominated fields, which could warrant further investigation into barriers or cultural factors affecting female enrollment in these disciplines.

Additionally, the data indicates a significant presence of students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds within the overall population of 292 students categorized as non-degree seeking. These figures align with national trends in universities across the United States, where institutions are increasingly focusing on fostering inclusivity and diversity among their student bodies.

Overall, Rochester University’s demographics reflect a growing trend of female enrollment in undergraduate programs and a need for further efforts to balance gender representation, especially in graduate fields. This data not only highlights the university's commitment to diversity but also poses important questions about the underlying factors influencing these trends.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Rochester University in 2023

The age distribution of students at Rochester University in 2023 reveals a predominance of younger individuals, particularly those under 24 years old. This trend is consistent with many universities, where a significant portion of the student body consists of traditional-aged students. Notably, the category under 18 years has a higher number of female students compared to males, with 133 females and 77 males.

In the 18-19 age bracket, there is a similar pattern with 157 females and 127 males. As students progress to the 20-21 age group, the ratio of females to males remains favorable towards females, with 100 females compared to 77 males. This trend continues in the 22-24 age range, where the number of female undergraduate students still exceeds that of males.

However, as we analyze older age groups, particularly from 25 and above, there is a noticeable decline in student numbers across both genders. The 25-29 age group shows a significant drop, with only 28 males and 63 females enrolled. The decline continues with even fewer students in the 30-34 and older categories.

This distribution not only reflects the demographic makeup of the university but also highlights an important aspect of higher education today: the increasing participation of older students. Factors such as career changes, lifelong learning, and the rise of online education may contribute to this trend. Overall, Rochester University's age composition aligns with national patterns, indicating a diverse and evolving educational landscape.

International Students

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

Undergraduates2.8%

33 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.3%2017: 5.8%2018: 1.8%2019: 1.9%2020: 2.3%2021: 1.8%2022: 2.1%2023: 2.6%2024: 2.5%2025: 2.8%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students6.3%

2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 6.1%2020: 4.7%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 10.3%2025: 6.3%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Rochester University

The data on international student enrollment at Rochester University reveals a fluctuating trend over nearly two decades. In the early years, particularly from 2004 to 2010, the number of international undergraduate students was relatively low, peaking at only 36 students by 2015, which represented merely 3.26% of the total undergraduate population. This suggests that Rochester University faced challenges in attracting international talent during this period.

However, a noticeable increase occurred from 2016 onwards, with the proportion of international students rising to 5.80% in 2017. This upward trajectory indicates a possible change in the university's recruitment strategies or a broader global trend of increasing mobility among students seeking education abroad. The years following 2017 saw a decline in the number of international students, plummeting to 1.82% in 2018 and further to 1.84% in 2021, likely influenced by external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread travel restrictions and uncertainty in higher education.

In terms of graduate enrollment, the data remains incomplete, lacking robust figures for many years. However, in 2019, 6.06% of graduate students were international, with a slight decrease noted in 2020 at 4.65%. This inconsistency in graduate enrollment data highlights a significant area for further research, particularly in understanding the university's appeal to graduate-level international students.

Overall, the fluctuating patterns in both undergraduate and graduate international enrollments at Rochester University reflect broader trends in global education and the impact of external events on student mobility. Continued efforts to enhance the university's international presence will be crucial in reversing any declining trends and attracting a diverse student body moving forward.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$39,682

Undergraduate tuition
$29,196
Room and board
$10,486
Graduate tuition
$13,176
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 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 55%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$16.1M

Tuition and fees
$11.7M72.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.4M14.6%
Gifts and private grants
$1.1M6.9%
Investment return
$753K4.7%
Government grants and contracts
$152K0.9%

Expenses$16.7M

Instruction
$7.8M46.8%
Institutional support
$4.8M28.9%
Student services
$3.3M20.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$720K4.3%

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
$58,281peers $65,931
Professor
$60,028peers $77,501
Associate professor
$63,822peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$55,228peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference

Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer2231
Basketball1920
Wrestling297
Baseball35-
Bowling1415
Track and Field (Indoor)176
Track and Field (Outdoor)176
Cross Country137
Softball-19
Volleyball-19
Golf96
Lacrosse-14
Other Sports-11
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3328
Baseball46-
Wrestling308
Track and Field (Indoor)2111
Track and Field (Outdoor)2111
Basketball1614
Volleyball-25
Cross Country148
Golf116
Softball-17
Bowling88
Lacrosse-12
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3629
Baseball45-
Track and Field (Indoor)2714
Track and Field (Outdoor)2714
Basketball1822
Wrestling306
Volleyball-34
Other Sports1716
Bowling1414
Cross Country118
Softball-17
Lacrosse-14
Golf85

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities around Rochester University:

  1. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21st in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of Notre Dame - With a ranking of 20, Notre Dame is a prestigious university recognized for its academic excellence and beautiful campus.

  3. Case Western Reserve University - Ranked 53rd, this university is renowned for its programs in engineering, business, and law.

  4. Hillsdale College - A liberal arts college ranked 39th, Hillsdale is known for its classical education approach and strong emphasis on the Western heritage.

  5. Oberlin College - With a ranking of 51, Oberlin is recognized for its commitment to liberal arts education and social justice.

  6. Denison University - This liberal arts college ranks 39th and is known for its strong community and emphasis on experiential learning.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and experiences for students, making the Rochester area a hub of academic excellence.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Rape
1
Burglary
1
Motor vehicle theft
1
Weapons arrests
1
Stalking
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Rochester University

The crime statistics from Rochester University over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in reported incidents. The average number of crimes per 1000 students has varied, with a noticeable peak in 2017 and 2018, where the rates reached 2.56 and 2.74 respectively. This suggests that these years may have seen an increase in reported incidents, particularly in categories such as gun arrests and drug-related offenses.

Interestingly, 2016 and 2019 recorded zero incidents per 1000 students, which could indicate improved safety measures or perhaps underreporting. Conversely, the year 2023 has shown a resurgence in crime rates, with an average of 1.71 per 1000 students. This uptick may warrant further investigation into the factors contributing to these changes, such as shifts in campus culture, increased awareness, or even the impact of external societal issues.

The rise in incidents related to domestic violence, assault, and theft also reflects broader national trends, where universities are grappling with increasing concerns about campus safety. Such data highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and effective intervention strategies to ensure student safety.

Overall, while Rochester University has experienced fluctuations in crime rates, the recent increase in certain types of offenses suggests a need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to foster a safe campus environment for all students. For more insights on crime rate calculations, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.