Concordia University-Saint Paul
U.S. News National 2027
#376
Acceptance rate
78.9%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$25,600
$39,532 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,424
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
42.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 51.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Concordia University-Saint Paul (CSP) is a vibrant institution located in the heart of Saint Paul, Minnesota. This private university is affiliated with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and emphasizes a strong Christian foundation in its educational philosophy. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. CSP prides itself on small class sizes, which foster close interaction between students and faculty, creating a supportive learning environment. The faculty members are highly qualified and dedicated, often bringing real-world experience into the classroom, which enriches the educational experience for students.
The campus culture at Concordia University-Saint Paul is characterized by a strong sense of community and inclusivity. Students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and student organizations, which promote personal growth and leadership skills. The university's commitment to service is evident through its various outreach programs and partnerships that allow students to connect with the local community. CSP's beautiful campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a library, and recreational areas, which enhance the overall student experience. With a focus on preparing students for successful careers, CSP boasts a robust network of alumni who are making significant contributions in various fields, reflecting the university's strong emphasis on career readiness and professional development.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at Concordia University-Saint Paul
Concordia University-Saint Paul has seen a steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students over the past decade. Starting from $19,700 in 2014, the tuition has risen to $25,000 by 2024, marking a significant increase of approximately 27% within ten years. This trend mirrors the broader national concern regarding rising higher education costs, which often places a heavier financial burden on students and their families.
In terms of graduation rates, there has been considerable fluctuation. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaked at 47.2% in 2021 but has since dropped to 35.5% in 2023. This decline could indicate possible challenges faced by students, potentially exacerbated by financial pressures or academic support issues. Conversely, the 150% graduation rate, which measures those graduating within six years, shows slightly better stability, indicating that while on-time graduation may be challenging, students are still completing their degrees with additional time.
Retention rates have also exhibited variability. The highest retention rate of about 76% was recorded in 2019, while the latest data for 2023 shows a drop to approximately 61%. This trend raises concerns about student satisfaction and engagement, which can be pivotal for long-term academic success and institutional reputation.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has fluctuated, with a notable increase in 2021 to 20:1, before dropping back down to 13:1 in 2023. A lower student-to-faculty ratio can enhance the quality of education and individualized attention students receive, which might positively influence retention and graduation rates.
Overall, while the university has made strides in enrollment and faculty engagement, the challenges in graduation and retention rates amid rising costs suggest a need for strategic interventions to support student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Minneapolis, about 6 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 6 mi
- Also known as
- Concordia-St. Paul
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod
- President
- Brian Friedrich (President)
- Phone
- 6516418278
- City
- Saint Paul, Minnesota
- Address
- 1282 Concordia Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55104-5494
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 97.3%, women 98.6%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Concordia University-Saint Paul
The admission data from Concordia University-Saint Paul over the years reflects a dynamic and evolving landscape in higher education. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown significant fluctuations. For instance, in 2011, the acceptance rates for males and females soared to approximately 94.67% and 98.53%, respectively, which indicates a particularly lenient admission period. However, as we progress through the years, the rates began to stabilize, with more recent years showing acceptance rates around 62% for males and 72% for females in 2023.
Enrollment numbers also illustrate a trend of increasing selectivity and competition. The university faced a significant number of applicants, with over 800 denials in 2021, marking a peak in rejection rates. This surge in rejected applications coincides with the heightened demand for higher education in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted many students to seek out stable and reputable institutions.
Additionally, the number of deferred admissions has been consistently high in recent years, reaching over 1,450 in 2023. This trend may suggest that while students are eager to enroll, various factors, possibly influenced by economic conditions or personal circumstances, delay their entry into university life.
Overall, the data highlights the shifting dynamics in college admissions, where institutions like Concordia University-Saint Paul balance the need to maintain enrollment numbers while also addressing the increasing competition and demand for higher education. As the landscape continues to evolve, prospective students must navigate these complexities to secure their place in academia.
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
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
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
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 Standardized Test Scores at Concordia University-St. Paul
The data from Concordia University-St. Paul over the years illustrates notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2023, the university has seen fluctuations in both SAT and ACT scores among admitted students.
One striking observation is the decline in the range of SAT reading and math scores, with the lower quartile consistently hovering around the 480 mark during the last decade, while the upper quartile has not shown significant improvement. This trend may be indicative of broader educational challenges faced by high school students, particularly as they adapt to changing testing formats and curricula.
Additionally, the percentage of applicants submitting their SAT scores has remained low, with only a small fraction (around 2-3%) of admitted students presenting their scores in recent years. This decline in submission rates could reflect a growing trend in higher education where students feel less compelled to submit standardized test scores due to test-optional policies adopted by many institutions.
As colleges increasingly prioritize holistic admissions processes, the reliance on standardized testing is being reevaluated. This shift may help diversify the student body and allow for a broader assessment of a candidate's capabilities. However, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of standardized testing in measuring student potential in the context of higher education.
Overall, the trends at Concordia University-St. Paul mirror a wider national conversation about the role and relevance of standardized testing in college admissions, as educational institutions strive to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
3,540 applicants in 2025, 78.9% admitted
2,792 admitted 748 not admitted Yield 16.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other · Master's440 (99% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's142 (1% international)
- Data Analytics, General · Master's93 (95% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's56 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's54 (13% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other · Master's45 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Concordia University-Saint Paul
The graduation data from Concordia University-Saint Paul for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees across different fields. Notably, the Nursing Practice program stands out with 331 graduates at the bachelor's level, indicating a strong emphasis on healthcare education, which is particularly relevant considering the ongoing global healthcare challenges. This aligns with the increasing demand for qualified healthcare professionals, especially in light of the recent pandemic.
In contrast, the fields of Computer and Information Technology show a substantial focus at the master's level, with 210 graduates, of which 203 are international students. This highlights the university's appeal to international candidates in technology sectors, reflecting broader trends in the tech industry where skilled labor is often sourced globally. Such a high proportion of international students in this field suggests that the university is strategically positioned to cater to the global demand for IT expertise.
The Education programs also demonstrate significant engagement, particularly with 122 master's graduates in Curriculum and Instruction and 67 in Teacher Education. This reflects a commitment to enhancing educational practices and professional development, which is critical as educational systems evolve in response to technological advancements and societal needs.
Overall, the data illustrates a strong alignment with current labor market demands, particularly in healthcare and technology, while also showcasing the university's role in fostering educational excellence. As Concordia University-Saint Paul continues to attract a diverse student body, these trends may evolve, further influencing the educational landscape in the region.
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/Health Care Administration/Management. | $53,727 | ||||
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | $68,617 | ||||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | $68,617 | ||||
| Community Health and Preventive Medicine. | - | ||||
| Orthotist/Prosthetist. | $49,243-$77,603 | ||||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $49,243-$77,603 | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $101,479 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $71,149 | ||||
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | $82,860 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $67,343-$83,358 | ||||
| Accounting. | $56,845 | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $56,757-$72,466 | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $50,647 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $47,926-$49,012 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $47,926-$49,012 | ||||
| Sports Studies. | $47,926-$49,012 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Analytics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $45,832 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $41,615-$47,391 | ||||
| Child Development. | $41,615-$47,391 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $54,687-$87,966 | ||||
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $54,687-$87,966 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $54,965 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $41,466 | ||||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - | ||||
| Music Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $36,242 | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | ||||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - | ||||
| Sports Communication. | - | ||||
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
Students
6,003 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 67.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,897
- First-year undergraduates 452
- Graduate students 2,579
- Transfers and others 1,075
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,424)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Concordia University-Saint Paul in 2023
The student composition at Concordia University-Saint Paul in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the diversity and gender distribution of its student body. The total number of undergraduate new students is 302, with a gender ratio showing that approximately 44.7% are male and 55.3% are female. This indicates a slight female majority among the new undergraduate cohort.
For the continuing undergraduate students, the numbers significantly increase to 1,826. The gender disparity becomes more pronounced here, with only 32.9% of these students identifying as male, compared to a substantial 67.1% female. This trend highlights a potential area of focus for the university, as it may wish to explore the factors influencing the higher retention of female students in undergraduate programs.
The transfer student population consists of 632 individuals, with a gender ratio of 31.6% male and 68.4% female. Again, this reinforces the trend observed in the undergraduate continuing category, suggesting a consistent pattern across different student classifications.
Graduate students total 2,473, with a male ratio of 37.6% and a female ratio of 62.4%. The higher proportion of female students in graduate programs could reflect broader trends in higher education, where women increasingly pursue advanced degrees.
Overall, the data suggests that Concordia University-Saint Paul has a predominantly female student body across all levels of study, which may be indicative of larger societal shifts in educational attainment among genders. Understanding these demographics is crucial for the university as it seeks to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Concordia University-Saint Paul
The age distribution of students at Concordia University-Saint Paul in 2023 reveals some interesting trends regarding the demographic makeup of the student body. The majority of students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-24 years, with a significant representation of both undergraduate and graduate students. Specifically, the 18-19 age group has a total of 572 students, while the 20-21 age group accounts for 629 students, indicating a robust influx of students in the early years of their college education.
As students progress in age, particularly from 22-24 years, we observe a notable increase in graduate students, with 124 male and 223 female students enrolled. This shift reflects a growing trend in higher education where older students seek advanced degrees, possibly due to career shifts or the need for further qualifications in a competitive job market.
Interestingly, the 25-29 age group comprises 821 students, which is the largest cohort, showing that many individuals are returning to education later in life, likely balancing work and study. The presence of older students is a positive aspect for the university, as it fosters a diverse learning environment where varying life experiences enrich classroom discussions.
The data also highlights a steep decline in student numbers among those over 50, with only 131 students. This may reflect societal trends where older individuals are less likely to pursue higher education. Overall, Concordia University-Saint Paul demonstrates a vibrant and diverse student population, with a significant number of both young and mature learners contributing to the academic community.
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.
51 in 2025 · 4.5% in 2016
632 in 2025 · 1.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Concordia University-Saint Paul
The data on international student enrollment at Concordia University-Saint Paul reveals significant fluctuations over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students increased from 12 to 60, while graduate international enrollment saw a remarkable rise from 3 to 532. These figures highlight the university's growing appeal to international students, particularly at the graduate level, where the percentage of international students surged to 21.51% in 2023.
The early years of the data show a relatively low presence of international students, with percentages below 1% for many years. However, starting around 2014, there is a noticeable increase in both the number and percentage of international students, particularly in graduate programs. This shift may correlate with global trends of increasing international mobility in education, as well as efforts by universities to attract a diverse student body.
The substantial growth in graduate international enrollment, peaking at 21.51% in 2023, suggests that Concordia University-Saint Paul is successfully establishing itself as a competitive option for postgraduate studies. This trend is consistent with reports from various educational organizations indicating a rising preference for U.S. institutions among international students, especially in fields that offer robust career prospects.
Overall, the data illustrates a positive trajectory for Concordia University-Saint Paul in attracting international students, which not only enriches the academic environment but also enhances cultural diversity on campus. As global education landscapes continue to evolve, the university's strategies to engage with international markets will be crucial for sustaining this growth.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$39,532
- Undergraduate tuition
- $25,600
- Room and board
- $13,932
- Graduate tuition
- $8,550
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 68%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$102M
Expenses$90.8M
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 · Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 112 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 56 | 37 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 48 | 35 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 32 |
| Lacrosse | - | 29 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 23 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 8 |
| Golf | 10 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 113 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 45 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 44 | 25 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Soccer | - | 36 |
| Basketball | 19 | 14 |
| Lacrosse | - | 26 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 8 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 131 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 41 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 36 | 29 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 17 |
| Soccer | - | 31 |
| Lacrosse | - | 24 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 8 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Swimming | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Macalester CollegeSaint Paul · 1.0 mi
Liberal Arts #28
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 1.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis · 4.3 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Bethel UniversitySaint Paul · 7.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Carleton CollegeNorthfield · 33.7 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
St. Olaf CollegeNorthfield · 33.8 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 59.0 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 70.7 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 74.3 mi
Liberal Arts #74
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Concordia University-Saint Paul:
-
Macalester College - Ranked 27th in the 2024 US News list, Macalester College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on internationalism and diversity.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - This public research university is ranked 53rd and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive universities in the region.
-
Carleton College - With a rank of 9, Carleton College is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and vibrant campus life, providing an excellent liberal arts education.
-
St Olaf College - Ranked 51st, St Olaf College is well-known for its strong music program and a commitment to a liberal arts education.
-
University of St Thomas - At 163rd in the rankings, this private university offers a comprehensive education with a focus on values and ethics.
These institutions contribute to the rich academic environment surrounding Concordia University-Saint Paul.
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
Crime Trends at Concordia University-Saint Paul
The crime data from Concordia University-Saint Paul reveals a fluctuating trend in campus-related criminal activities over the past decade. Starting from a relatively high rate of 8.88 incidents per 1000 students in 2013, the university experienced a significant drop in crime rates by 2018, reaching as low as 1.95 incidents per 1000 students. This decline may reflect improved safety measures, increased campus security, or community awareness initiatives.
However, the numbers have seen a moderate resurgence in recent years, with rates hovering around 1.08 incidents per 1000 students in 2023. Notably, the data indicates a concerning spike in 2017, where the crime rate peaked at 7.46 incidents per 1000 students. This fluctuation prompts further investigation into the nature of crimes reported during this period, as well as the university’s response to safety concerns.
When breaking down the types of offenses, there is a notable absence of violent crimes such as murder and rape in the data, which is a positive sign for the campus community. However, the presence of drug-related arrests and alcohol offenses suggests ongoing challenges in maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment. Furthermore, the data highlights the importance of continuous vigilance and proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being.
Overall, while the trends indicate improvement, the university must remain committed to addressing the underlying issues contributing to these incidents. Engaging students in crime prevention programs and fostering a culture of safety will be essential in sustaining this progress. For more information on calculating crime rates, refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Concordia University-Saint Paul include Nuni Omot (South Sudanese-American basketball player), Justin Eichorn (Former Minnesota state senator) and Louis Varland (MLB pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays).
-
Nuni Omot 1994–
South Sudanese-American basketball player
-
Justin Eichorn 1984–
Former Minnesota state senator
-
Louis Varland 1997–
MLB pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays
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.