Spring Arbor University
Acceptance rate
51.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$34,014
$45,454 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,139
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
47.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 60.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Spring Arbor University (SAU) is a private Christian university located in Spring Arbor, Michigan. Established in 1873, the university has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a commitment to holistic education. One of the defining characteristics of SAU is its affiliation with the Free Methodist Church, which influences its values and campus culture. The university emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, encouraging students to develop a strong moral compass alongside their academic pursuits. The school's mission statement embodies this ethos, promoting a vision of "educating the whole person" and preparing students to serve in their communities and the world.
The campus is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and a close-knit community atmosphere. With a variety of student organizations and activities, SAU fosters a vibrant campus culture that promotes personal growth and leadership development. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in fields such as education, business, and health sciences. Additionally, Spring Arbor University is recognized for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships and practical experiences in their chosen fields. The supportive faculty and staff are dedicated to mentoring students, contributing to the university's impressive graduation rates and successful alumni outcomes. Overall, Spring Arbor University stands out as an institution committed to nurturing both academic and spiritual growth, preparing students for meaningful lives and careers.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student demographics over the years. One of the most striking changes is the continuous rise in tuition costs. For undergraduate students, tuition increased from $23,400 in 2014 to $32,580 in 2024, reflecting a growth of approximately 39% over a decade. This increase in financial burden can lead to concerns about accessibility and affordability for prospective students, particularly in an era where student debt levels continue to soar.
The graduation rates at Spring Arbor have shown an encouraging upward trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved from 37% in 2013 to nearly 47% in 2023. This increase of about 10 percentage points indicates that the university is effectively supporting its students towards successful completion of their degrees, which is a vital metric for any institution's reputation and student satisfaction.
Another noteworthy trend is the student demographics, specifically the gender ratio among undergraduates. In 2023, the percentage of undergraduate women was approximately 65%, while men comprised about 35%. This gradual increase in female representation reflects broader societal trends in higher education, where women are increasingly outpacing men in enrollment.
Retention rates, however, tell a mixed story. While the university maintained a relatively high retention rate of 68% in 2023, this marks a decline from over 79% in 2019. Such a drop could indicate potential challenges in student satisfaction or engagement, which is crucial for long-term institutional success.
In summary, while Spring Arbor University has made strides in improving graduation rates and managing gender balance, the rising tuition costs and declining retention rates highlight areas that require further attention to ensure the institution remains accessible and supportive to all its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Toledo, about 60 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- SAU, SAC, Spring Arbor College, Spring Arber Unviversity, Spring Arbor, Spring Arber, Spring Arbor Collage
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Free Methodist
- President
- Brent D. Ellis (President)
- Phone
- 5177501200
- City
- Spring Arbor, Michigan
- Address
- 106 E. Main St, Spring Arbor, MI 49283-9799
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 64.4%, women 66.3%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Spring Arbor University
The admission data for Spring Arbor University over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants show a steady decline from 2009 to 2023. For instance, the male admission rate decreased from approximately 76.36% in 2009 to just 39.02% in 2023, while the female admission rate dropped from about 79.30% to 55.94% during the same period. This trend indicates an increasingly competitive admission landscape, which is not uncommon among universities as they strive to maintain or improve their rankings.
Furthermore, the number of enrolled students has fluctuated, reaching a peak of 427 in 2011 but subsequently decreasing to 228 by 2023. Interestingly, the number of denied applicants has increased markedly, with 1,218 applicants denied admission in 2023 compared to just 387 in 2009. This spike in rejections, coupled with lower enrollment figures, suggests that the university may be prioritizing quality over quantity in its admissions process, likely aiming to enhance its reputation and rankings.
The implications of these trends are multifaceted. As universities face increasing scrutiny over their selectivity and outcomes, Spring Arbor University's data mirrors national trends where institutions are becoming more discerning in their admissions. Moreover, the challenge of balancing enrollment numbers with a commitment to maintaining academic standards is a pressing issue. Overall, the patterns observed at Spring Arbor University reflect the dynamics of higher education and the ongoing evolution of admission strategies in response to both internal goals and external pressures.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 4% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores at Spring Arbor University
The admission data from Spring Arbor University over the years showcases some notable trends in standardized test scores and the corresponding participation rates. There has been a significant fluctuation in the number of students submitting their SAT and ACT scores, with participation rates reaching as high as 88% in recent years, particularly between 2020 and 2022. This trend suggests that students are increasingly inclined to submit test scores as part of their applications, possibly due to a growing awareness of the importance of standardized testing in the admission process.
Looking closely at the score ranges for the SAT reading and math sections, we observe a gradual increase in the lower quartile scores, indicating that the minimum scores required for admission are becoming more competitive over time. For instance, the lower end of the SAT reading score has shifted from 440 in 2007 to 480 in 2023, reflecting a rise in academic standards.
Conversely, the upper quartile scores have shown variability, with some years witnessing significant increases while others lagged. This variability could be attributed to changes in the applicant pool's overall academic preparedness and the evolving standards of testing.
Interestingly, while the number of applicants submitting scores has increased, the percentage of those who submitted scores relative to total admissions fluctuated widely. This trend may suggest that a more diverse applicant pool is emerging, with a mix of students opting to apply without standardized test scores, especially in light of the recent trends towards test-optional admissions in many institutions across the country.
In summary, the data from Spring Arbor University reflects a complex interplay of test participation, score trends, and evolving admission practices, highlighting the need for prospective students to stay informed about the changing landscape of college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
2,527 applicants in 2025, 51.5% admitted
1,302 admitted 1,225 not admitted Yield 16.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Social Work · Master's118 (0% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's72 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's67 (0% international)
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing · Master's64 (0% international)
- Geriatric Nurse/Nursing · Master's32 (0% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injuries · Master's27 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Spring Arbor University
The graduation data from Spring Arbor University reveals noteworthy trends across various disciplines, particularly in the fields of health and social sciences. The absence of bachelor's degrees awarded in medical and health-related programs, alongside the significant number of master's degrees, suggests a potential focus on graduate-level education in these areas. Specifically, Family Practice Nursing and Social Work saw 164 and 113 master's graduates, respectively, indicating a robust interest in advanced studies within these fields.
Interestingly, there are no international students graduating with bachelor's degrees in any of the listed programs, which may reflect broader trends in international education where students prefer to pursue graduate studies in the U.S. This aligns with the increasing global demand for higher education qualifications and specialized training, especially in health and social services.
The data also shows a complete lack of doctorate programs in all categories, which might indicate an area for future development. The absence of doctoral graduates could limit the academic and research capabilities of the institution, especially in fields that typically benefit from advanced research and scholarship.
Moreover, the general studies program stands out with 25 bachelor's graduates, highlighting a flexible approach to education that may attract a diverse student body. This could be a strategic advantage for the university, catering to students seeking interdisciplinary knowledge before specializing.
Overall, the graduation statistics emphasize a strong emphasis on master's level education, particularly in health and social work, while also indicating potential growth areas in undergraduate and doctoral programs. This analysis underscores the importance of aligning educational offerings with market demands and student interests.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Education. | - | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | $80,233-$104,543 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $80,233-$104,543 | ||||
| Pediatric Nurse/Nursing. | $80,233-$104,543 | ||||
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing. | $80,233-$104,543 | ||||
| Geriatric Nurse/Nursing. | $80,233-$104,543 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | $41,961-$57,170 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | - | ||||
| School Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $58,372-$72,360 | ||||
| Operations Management and Supervision. | $58,372-$72,360 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $58,372-$72,360 | ||||
| Accounting. | $48,502 | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Financial Planning and Services. | - | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $40,039 | ||||
| General Studies. | $40,039 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Environmental Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||||
| Christian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broadcast Journalism. | - | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
Students
2,441 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 77.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 706
- First-year undergraduates 215
- Graduate students 1,302
- Transfers and others 218
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,139)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Spring Arbor University in 2023
The student demographic data from Spring Arbor University for the year 2023 reveals significant trends in gender distribution and racial composition among various classifications of students.
Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 228 students, with a notable 44.3% male and 55.7% female representation. This indicates a relatively balanced gender ratio, although it does lean slightly towards females. In contrast, the undergraduate juniors show a more pronounced gender disparity, with only 31.6% male and 68.4% female students out of a total of 700 students. This trend of a higher female representation continues in the transfer students category, with 33.3% males and 66.7% females among 93 students.
Graduate students comprise the largest group with 1,269 individuals, yet the gender ratio is considerably skewed, with only 12.5% males and a striking 87.5% females. This raises questions about the fields of study attracting more females at the graduate level and could be reflective of broader societal trends in education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Additionally, the racial composition within these student groups indicates that white students form a substantial majority across all classifications, followed by smaller percentages of other racial groups. The data suggests that diversity remains a challenge, particularly for graduate programs, where the representation of underrepresented groups could be improved.
Overall, the findings highlight important patterns in gender and racial demographics at Spring Arbor University, which may have implications for recruitment strategies and support systems tailored to meet the needs of a diverse student population. As institutions strive for inclusivity, these insights will be vital in shaping future educational initiatives.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Spring Arbor University
The age distribution data from Spring Arbor University reveals interesting insights into the demographic composition of its student body. The largest segment of students falls within the 18-19 age group, with 125 male undergraduates and 188 female undergraduates, accounting for approximately 40% of the total student population. This trend aligns with the national statistics indicating that many students enter higher education immediately after high school.
Notably, the 20-21 age category also shows a significant presence, particularly among female undergraduates, where the numbers rise to 227, highlighting an increasing trend towards pursuing higher education in this age bracket. However, as we examine older age groups, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. For instance, while the 22-24 age group includes a healthy mix of both genders, the numbers begin to dwindle significantly in the 25-29 age category, where there are only 11 male undergraduates compared to 44 female undergraduates.
Interestingly, the presence of older students (30-34, 35-39, and 40-49 age groups) suggests that the university is accommodating non-traditional students, which reflects a broader trend in higher education where more individuals seek to further their education later in life. The data also highlights that the majority of graduate students are in the 25-29 age range, indicating a shift towards advanced degrees in this demographic.
In conclusion, the age composition at Spring Arbor University illustrates a balanced representation of traditional and non-traditional students, showcasing the institution's appeal across various age groups while also reflecting national education trends. This diversity can enhance the learning environment, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and experiences among students of different ages.
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.
38 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
10 in 2025 · 0.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Spring Arbor University
The data on international student enrollment at Spring Arbor University reveals a significant fluctuation over the years. In the early years, such as 2004 and 2005, the percentage of international undergraduates was notably low, hovering around 0.92% to 0.95%. However, this percentage began to increase gradually, peaking at 2.66% in 2023, indicating a positive trend towards greater diversity within the undergraduate population.
The graduate student enrollment figures follow a similar pattern, although the overall percentages remained lower compared to undergraduates. The representation of international graduate students reached 0.87% in 2023, which, despite being an improvement from earlier years, still emphasizes the need for increased recruitment efforts in this area.
An essential aspect to note is the impact of global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a significant drop in enrollment numbers in 2020. The university witnessed a drastic decline in both undergraduate and graduate student counts, reflecting the broader challenges faced by educational institutions worldwide during this period.
As universities in the United States strive to enhance their global presence, the upward trend in international student enrollment at Spring Arbor University is encouraging. It suggests that the institution is gradually becoming a more attractive option for students from diverse backgrounds. Continued efforts to support and integrate these students will be crucial for maintaining and furthering this trend in the coming years, potentially leading to a richer academic environment and fostering cross-cultural exchange.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$45,454
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,014
- Room and board
- $11,440
- Graduate tuition
- $8,364
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$57.0M
Expenses$47.6M
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 · NCCAA · Crossroads League
Crossroads League: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 89 | 113 |
| Soccer | 42 | 48 |
| Basketball | 30 | 32 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Bowling | 15 | 19 |
| Tennis | 17 | 16 |
| Other Sports | 8 | 17 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 53 | 64 |
| Soccer | 53 | 44 |
| Baseball | 54 | - |
| Basketball | 24 | 30 |
| Bowling | 16 | 18 |
| Tennis | 18 | 14 |
| Golf | 22 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Other Sports | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 47 | 46 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 46 | 44 |
| Basketball | 25 | 26 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Bowling | 13 | 19 |
| Golf | 21 | 9 |
| Tennis | 11 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Other Sports | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 19.3 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 36.5 mi
U.S. News #69
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 42.3 mi
U.S. News #25
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 53.8 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 54.4 mi
U.S. News #276
-
University of ToledoToledo · 61.4 mi
U.S. News #299
-
University of Detroit MercyDetroit · 73.8 mi
U.S. News #186
-
Bowling Green State University-Main CampusBowling Green · 74.3 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Wayne State UniversityDetroit · 76.7 mi
U.S. News #186
Data insights
Here are some notable nearby schools to Spring Arbor University:
-
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Ranked 21 in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is known for its strong research programs and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines.
-
University of Notre Dame - With a rank of 20, the University of Notre Dame is famous for its vibrant campus life and commitment to academic excellence, particularly in the fields of business, engineering, and humanities.
-
Hillsdale College - Ranked 39, Hillsdale College is a renowned liberal arts college that emphasizes a classical education and is known for its commitment to the principles of liberty and self-government.
-
Kalamazoo College - With a rank of 70, Kalamazoo College offers a distinctive liberal arts education with a focus on experiential learning and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
-
University of Chicago - Ranked 12, the University of Chicago is a prestigious institution renowned for its rigorous academic programs and is particularly noted for its contributions to economics and social sciences.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and are well-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 Trends at Spring Arbor University
The crime statistics at Spring Arbor University from 2013 to 2023 reveal a significant downward trend in reported offenses. In 2013, the average crime rate was 9.07 per 1,000 students, which is markedly higher than the 0.67 per 1,000 students recorded in 2023. This substantial decline in crime rates over the years is encouraging and suggests that the university has been successful in implementing measures to enhance campus safety and reduce criminal activity.
Particularly noteworthy is the decrease in serious offenses such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents. In 2013, the university faced a total of 37.4 reported offenses, which has drastically reduced over the years, reflecting a commitment to improving student behavior and community standards on campus. The decrease in incidents of domestic violence and theft further underscores the effectiveness of preventive programs and outreach initiatives aimed at fostering a safer environment.
The overall trend suggests that the university's administration may have focused on creating a more secure campus through educational programs, increased law enforcement presence, and community engagement efforts. This could serve as a model for other institutions looking to address and reduce crime rates effectively.
Nonetheless, while the statistics are promising, continuous vigilance and proactive measures are essential to sustain and further improve these outcomes. It is crucial for institutions to remain engaged with their student populations and to foster a culture of accountability and respect. As we analyze these trends, we should also remain aware of the broader social issues influencing campus safety and the importance of collaborative efforts to address them.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Spring Arbor University include Jennell Jaquays (Game designer and illustrator), Wendell Harrison (Jazz clarinetist and tenor saxophonist) and Bethany Bos (Professional soccer striker, three-time NAIA player of the year).
-
Jennell Jaquays 1956–2024
Game designer and illustrator
-
Wendell Harrison 1942–
Jazz clarinetist and tenor saxophonist
-
Bethany Bos 1997–
Professional soccer striker, three-time NAIA player of the year
-
Gayle Moran 1943–
Vocalist, keyboardist and songwriter
-
Mary Previte 1932–2019
Former New Jersey General Assembly member
-
Babbie Mason 1955–
Gospel singer, songwriter and author
-
Lewis Jones 1994–
British Virgin Islands international footballer
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.