Saint Peter’s University
Acceptance rate
90.3%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$42,552
$60,346 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,263
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
50.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 60.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Peter's University, located in Jersey City, New Jersey, is a private Jesuit university that emphasizes a holistic education aimed at developing the whole person. Founded in 1872, it has a strong commitment to social justice and service, reflecting its Jesuit heritage. The university's mission is not only to provide academic excellence but also to instill values of ethics and responsibility in its students. The campus is characterized by its vibrant community and rich diversity, fostering an inclusive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.
Saint Peter's University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in business, education, and health sciences. The university's faculty is highly qualified, with many professors holding advanced degrees in their respective fields, ensuring that students receive a quality education backed by real-world experience. In addition to academics, the university encourages student engagement through various extracurricular activities, including athletics, cultural organizations, and service learning. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, such as state-of-the-art classrooms and recreational areas, which support a well-rounded student experience. With its prime location in Jersey City, students have access to a wealth of internship and employment opportunities in nearby New York City, positioning them for successful careers after graduation.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Saint Peter's University
Saint Peter's University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key metrics over recent years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.
Firstly, tuition costs have consistently increased, particularly for undergraduate programs. For instance, the in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $32,284 in 2014 to $41,054 in 2024, representing a significant increase of approximately 27%. This trend mirrors the wider national concern regarding rising college costs, which continues to burden students and families alike.
In terms of student enrollment, the numbers have fluctuated. The undergraduate population peaked at 2,672 in 2017 but has since declined to 2,071 by 2023. This decrease may have implications for the university’s revenue and overall diversity, as a shrinking student body can also lead to fewer perspectives and ideas on campus.
Graduation rates provide a mixed picture. The timely graduation rate (within 100% of the expected time) saw some volatility, with a notable increase to 47.1% in 2022 from a low of 33.1% in 2014. This upward trend suggests improvements in student support and academic performance, possibly reflecting the institution's strategic initiatives to enhance student success. However, the rate dipped slightly to 42.4% in 2023, highlighting the need for ongoing support mechanisms to maintain progress.
Retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 77% in 2023. This suggests that once students enroll, they tend to stay, indicating a satisfactory level of student satisfaction with their educational experience. Retaining students is crucial for maintaining enrollment numbers and fostering a vibrant campus community.
Overall, while Saint Peter's University is navigating challenges typical of higher education institutions, the improvements in graduation rates and stable retention levels provide a hopeful outlook amidst rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment figures. As the university moves forward, addressing these financial challenges while continuing to support and retain students will be paramount.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 8 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 6 mi
- Also known as
- Saint Peter's, SPU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Hubert Benitez (President)
- Phone
- 2017617400
- City
- Jersey City, New Jersey
- Address
- 2641 Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07306-5997
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 77.8%, women 83.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions Trends at Saint Peter's University
The admissions data for Saint Peter's University over the years reveals intriguing trends in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has seen a downward trend from approximately 61% in 2009 to around 87% in 2023, indicating a competitive environment for prospective students. Meanwhile, the female acceptance rate has also fluctuated but has remained relatively high, peaking at about 94% in 2022.
The total enrollment numbers have varied significantly, with a peak of 651 students in 2018. However, this number has been on a slight decline in the subsequent years, which could suggest a tightening of admission standards or a shift in university strategy to manage student population effectively.
An interesting observation is the rise in deferred admissions, reaching a high of 3,092 in 2020, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend may reflect students’ uncertainties regarding attending in-person classes during that period, which could have prompted many to delay their college experience.
Overall, the data reflects the evolving landscape of higher education, where institutions like Saint Peter's University must adapt to changing applicant behaviors and external circumstances. The fluctuating acceptance rates and enrollment figures underscore the importance of understanding demographic shifts and student needs, especially in today's rapidly changing educational climate.
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 Admission Test Scores at Saint Peter's University
The data from Saint Peter's University over the years reveals significant trends in admission test scores and the percentage of students submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in both the number of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores and the corresponding score ranges. For instance, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores remained consistently high, notably peaking at 99% in 2014 and 2010. However, a stark drop is observed in more recent years, with only 1% of applicants submitting SAT scores in 2023, demonstrating a potential shift in admissions strategy or a broader trend in test-optional policies.
The SAT reading and math scores, as well as ACT composite scores, have shown variability. While the lower quartile scores have remained relatively stable, the upper quartile scores exhibited some fluctuations, indicating a mixed pool of applicants over the years. The reading and math components of the SAT have shown a decline in the upper limits, which could suggest that the competitive landscape of applicants may be changing.
Moreover, the data suggests an increasing reliance on alternative assessments or a move towards a more holistic approach in admissions, as evidenced by the decreasing number of test submissions alongside stable admission rates. This shift reflects a growing national trend among universities to consider a wider array of student qualifications beyond standardized test scores, a movement that has gained traction particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, Saint Peter's University appears to be navigating a transformative period in its admissions process, aligning with broader educational trends while potentially reshaping its academic profile in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
5,217 applicants in 2025, 90.3% admitted
4,711 admitted 506 not admitted Yield 11.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Analytics · Master's206 (99% international)
- Data Science, General · Master's204 (97% international)
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance · Master's66 (89% international)
- Management Science · Master's21 (62% international)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's18 (0% international)
- Finance, General · Master's18 (6% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Saint Peter's University
The graduation data from Saint Peter's University for 2023 presents interesting insights into the trends and distribution of degrees awarded across various disciplines. Notably, the Bachelor’s degree in Psychology stands out with 60 graduates, indicating a strong interest in mental health fields, a trend that mirrors the growing societal focus on mental well-being and psychological services.
In contrast, the Management Science program produced 58 Master’s graduates, with a significant representation from international students, suggesting that this program is attractive to global learners seeking to enhance their business acumen. This aligns with the current emphasis on data-driven decision-making and analytical skills in today’s job market.
The Registered Nursing program also reflects a commitment to health professions, with 50 Bachelor’s graduates. This is particularly relevant given the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, exacerbated by the recent global health crises. The lack of graduates in the associate degree category across the board highlights a potential gap in entry-level education options in these fields, which could be addressed to better prepare students for the workforce.
Furthermore, the data indicates that several disciplines, including Anthropology and Urban Studies, did not yield any graduates this year, which may point to fluctuating interest levels or changing job market dynamics. Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic programs with market needs, particularly in high-demand fields, to ensure that graduates are well-equipped for their future careers.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Science, General. | - | ||||
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,842 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $52,842 | ||||
| Accounting. | $51,599 | ||||
| Finance, General. | $76,250 | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Management Science. | - | ||||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $29,569 | ||||
| Insurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,479 | ||||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $57,746 | ||||
| Artificial Intelligence. | $57,746 | ||||
| Information Technology. | $57,746 | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Health Information/Medical Records Administration/Administrator. | - | ||||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $87,470 | ||||
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. | $87,470 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $59,645 | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $84,343-$131,065 | ||||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $84,343-$131,065 | ||||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | - | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,922 | ||||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Economics, General. | - | ||||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - | ||||
| Urban Studies/Affairs. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $37,620 | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $36,285 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $36,533 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $36,533 | ||||
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | $36,533 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $28,804 | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - | ||||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $64,141 | ||||
| Youth Services/Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Forensic Chemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
Students
3,572 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 71.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,275
- First-year undergraduates 533
- Graduate students 1,309
- Transfers and others 455
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,263)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Peter's University in 2023
Saint Peter's University showcases a diverse student body in 2023, with a significant representation of both undergraduate and graduate students. The incoming freshman class comprises 401 students, with a gender distribution leaning slightly towards females at 56.6%. This trend continues across the undergraduate population, where the sophomore class, numbering 1,292, has a notably higher percentage of female students at 60.9%. Interestingly, the transfer student segment shows an even larger gender gap, with 70.7% being female, which may reflect broader trends in higher education where female enrollment is on the rise.
In contrast, the graduate student population, totaling 1,359, presents a more balanced gender ratio, with 55.3% males. This indicates a shift in demographic patterns at the graduate level, potentially suggesting that males are more likely to pursue advanced degrees at this institution.
The racial demographics of these groups further illustrate the university's commitment to diversity. The detailed breakdown of racial composition within the freshman segment reveals a variety of backgrounds, although specific figures need to be analyzed further. The presence of international students also contributes to the multicultural environment at Saint Peter's University.
Overall, the data reflects ongoing trends in higher education, including the increasing female presence across undergraduate programs and the university's efforts to foster a diverse and inclusive academic community. These demographic characteristics can impact campus culture and academic offerings, aligning with national movements toward equity in education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Saint Peter's University
The age distribution of students at Saint Peter's University reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a significant concentration of students under the age of 24. The data indicates that individuals aged 18-21 represent a substantial portion of the student body, accounting for approximately 40% of the total male and female students. This aligns with national trends in higher education, where the majority of undergraduates typically fall within this age range.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students aged 22-24 is notably high, especially among males, suggesting that many students are pursuing advanced degrees shortly after completing their undergraduate studies. This trend may indicate a growing emphasis on higher education as a pathway to career advancement, particularly in competitive job markets.
The representation of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, is relatively low. For instance, those aged 30-34 make up only about 3% of the total student population. This could reflect the challenges faced by non-traditional students in balancing educational pursuits with work and family responsibilities.
Moreover, the gender distribution shows a slight imbalance, with females consistently outnumbering males in the undergraduate categories, particularly in the 18-21 age group. This trend is indicative of broader societal shifts towards higher female enrollment in higher education institutions.
Overall, the age composition at Saint Peter's University highlights a youthful and dynamic student body, with significant implications for the university's academic offerings and support services, particularly in catering to the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students.
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.
131 in 2025 · 2.2% in 2016
809 in 2025 · 5.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Saint Peter's University
The data on international students at Saint Peter's University over the years reveals significant trends and shifts in enrollment. From 2004 to 2023, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of international undergraduate and graduate students. For undergraduates, the percentage of international students has risen from a mere 1.86% in 2004 to 5.21% in 2023. This gradual increase reflects a growing interest in Saint Peter's University as a destination for international students, likely influenced by the university's academic offerings and support services.
The graduate program shows an even more impressive trend. The percentage of international graduate students skyrocketed from 0.78% in 2004 to a remarkable 60.49% in 2023. This drastic rise suggests that the university has become particularly attractive for graduate students, possibly due to its specialized programs or the global reputation of its faculty and research opportunities.
The sharp increase in 2021 and 2022, where the percentage of international graduate students reached 10.93% and 34.06% respectively, indicates a potential shift in the university's outreach or marketing strategies, or perhaps a response to global events that made studying abroad more appealing. Notably, the data reflects a broader trend seen across many institutions in the United States, where universities are increasingly recognizing the value international students bring to campus diversity and academic excellence.
Overall, Saint Peter's University appears to be carving out a niche in the international education landscape, with the potential for further growth in this area as globalization continues to influence higher education dynamics.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$60,346
- Undergraduate tuition
- $42,552
- Room and board
- $17,794
- Graduate tuition
- $16,035
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 23%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$96.0M
Expenses$93.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 72 | 53 |
| Soccer | 29 | 28 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Swimming | 18 | 16 |
| Basketball | 13 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 59 | 48 |
| Soccer | 29 | 24 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Swimming | 17 | 14 |
| Basketball | 13 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 69 | 64 |
| Soccer | 29 | 28 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Basketball | 13 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Swimming | 11 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 2.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 3.9 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 8.0 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 8.1 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 25.2 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 40.5 mi
U.S. News #2
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 46.1 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 51.4 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 59.6 mi
Liberal Arts #30
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Saint Peter's University:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League university known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
New York University - With a ranking of 35, NYU is renowned for its diverse academic offerings and its location in the heart of Manhattan, providing students with ample opportunities for internships and cultural experiences.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - Ranked 76th, Stevens focuses on engineering, technology, and business programs, preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving job market.
-
Rutgers University-Newark - This branch of Rutgers University is ranked 82nd and offers a strong emphasis on research and community engagement, with a diverse student body.
-
Princeton University - As the 1st ranked university, Princeton is renowned for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and beautiful campus, offering a rich undergraduate experience.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields of study.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Saint Peter's University
The crime rates at Saint Peter's University over the past decade present a compelling narrative about campus safety. From 2013 to 2016, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students rose significantly, peaking in 2016 at 17.09. This spike in reported crimes may reflect a combination of factors including increased awareness of safety issues, more stringent reporting practices, or possibly a rise in actual incidents.
However, there has been a notable decline in crime rates since 2016, with the rate dropping to just 1.98 incidents per 1,000 students in 2023. This reduction is encouraging and suggests that the university may have implemented effective safety measures and programs designed to foster a safer campus environment. For instance, the significant decrease in arrests for drug offenses and alcohol-related incidents in recent years indicates a positive trend towards better student behavior and proactive measures by campus authorities.
Moreover, the data shows an absence of severe crimes such as murder or robbery, which is reassuring for students and their families. Nonetheless, ongoing vigilance is crucial. The presence of minor offenses, such as stalking and domestic violence, underscores the need for continuous education and resources aimed at prevention and intervention.
In conclusion, while the downward trend in crime rates at Saint Peter's University is favorable, it is essential to maintain focus on safety education and outreach to ensure that this trend continues. For further details on crime rate calculations, one can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Saint Peter’s University include Will Durant (Historian and philosopher, author of The Story of Civilization), Bob Menendez (Former US senator from New Jersey) and Albio Sires (Cuban-born politician, mayor of West New York, New Jersey).
-
Will Durant 1885–1981
Historian and philosopher, author of The Story of Civilization
-
Bob Menendez 1954–
Former US senator from New Jersey
-
Albio Sires 1951–
Cuban-born politician, mayor of West New York, New Jersey
-
George J. Borjas 1950–
Economist and Harvard Kennedy School professor
-
Keydren Clark 1984–
Basketball coach and former player
-
Natasha Jonas 1984–
British professional boxer and two-weight world champion
-
Andrew Wisniewski 1981–
Basketball coach and former player
-
Vincent Burnelli 1895–1964
Aeronautics engineer, lifting body and flying wing pioneer
-
James Alphonsus Hamill 1877–1941
Former US representative from New Jersey
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.