Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Hilbert College

Hamburg, New York · www.hilbert.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

97.2%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$33,740

$48,660 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

931

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

51.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 55.6%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Hilbert College, located in Hamburg, New York, is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes a strong commitment to social justice and community service. Founded in 1957 by the Franciscan friars, the college is deeply rooted in Franciscan values, which emphasize respect for all individuals and the importance of community. The college’s mission is reflected in its motto, “We Are One,” which encapsulates its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Hilbert offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular focus on criminal justice, business administration, and psychology, preparing students for successful careers in various fields.

The campus life at Hilbert College is vibrant, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and extracurricular activities. The college boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, as well as dedicated spaces for student organizations and events. Hilbert also has a robust athletics program, with teams participating in NCAA Division III sports. Students can engage in numerous clubs and organizations, providing opportunities for leadership development and social interaction. The close-knit community at Hilbert fosters meaningful relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the overall educational experience and preparing graduates to be conscientious and capable leaders in their chosen professions.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention

Over the years, the tuition fees at Hilbert College have experienced a significant increase, particularly for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. In 2014, the tuition was $19,900, which has escalated to $32,150 by 2024, marking an increase of over 60%. This sharp rise in tuition can be attributed to various factors, including inflation, increased operational costs, and the need for institutions to invest in facilities and technology. As tuition climbs, prospective students may find it increasingly challenging to afford higher education, leading to concerns about accessibility and student debt.

Graduation rates have shown a more positive trend, especially in recent years. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students rose from approximately 36.2% in 2013 to 54.1% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college has made strides in supporting its students to complete their degrees within the traditional timeframe. Enhanced academic advising, tutoring programs, and student engagement initiatives may be contributing factors to this rise.

However, student retention rates present a mixed picture. The retention rate peaked at 78.2% in 2020 but has since declined to approximately 66.5% in 2023. This drop raises concerns about student satisfaction and the overall campus experience. Factors such as financial pressures, academic challenges, and social integration may influence a student's decision to continue their education at Hilbert College.

In summary, while tuition continues to rise, indicating potential affordability issues, the improvements in graduation rates reflect positively on the institution's educational support. Conversely, the decline in retention rates highlights the need for ongoing efforts to enhance student engagement and satisfaction to ensure that more students remain at the college until graduation.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Buffalo, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), about 15 mi
Hamburg, New York
Also known as
Hilbert
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Michael Cornell (President)
Phone
7166497900
City
Hamburg, New York
Address
5200 S Park Ave, Hamburg, NY 14075-1597

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
95.9%
Women
98.2%

In 2020: men 90.0%, women 94.3%.

Data insights

Admission Trends at Hilbert College

Analyzing the admission data for Hilbert College over the years reveals several noteworthy trends. The acceptance rates for male and female applicants show an interesting pattern, reflecting a shift in the college's admission strategy and demographics. For instance, in 2011, male applicants had an acceptance rate of approximately 73.35%, while female applicants were accepted at a rate of around 78.83%. Over the years, the male acceptance rate generally increased, reaching an impressive 94.12% by 2023, while the female acceptance rate also saw a rise to 96.52% in the same year.
The enrollment numbers fluctuated throughout the years, peaking at 280 new students in 2023, indicating a potential growth in interest toward the institution. Meanwhile, the number of denied applicants decreased significantly in recent years, suggesting that the college may have adopted a more inclusive approach to admissions, possibly in response to the competitive landscape of higher education.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions also varied, with a noticeable increase in 2018, where 834 applicants were deferred. This could hint at a strategic move by the college to manage enrollment numbers more effectively, granting them flexibility in shaping their student body.
Overall, Hilbert College appears to be navigating the complexities of student admissions successfully, adapting to changing trends while maintaining a steady increase in acceptance rates and enrollments. This trajectory may reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on diversity and inclusivity in their admissions processes.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Hilbert College

The admissions data from Hilbert College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a marked decline, dropping from over half of applicants in previous years to just 1% in 2023, indicating a potential shift in college admissions practices or a growing trend toward test-optional policies.

In terms of test scores, the 25th and 75th percentile ranges for SAT reading and mathematics have shown some improvement, particularly in recent years, where the ranges have shifted to between 460 and 570. This suggests that the admitted student profile is becoming more competitive, reflecting broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly attracting students with stronger academic backgrounds.

Additionally, for the ACT scores, the data shows a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile starting at 18 and the 75th percentile reaching 24 in 2022 and 2023. This increase suggests that Hilbert College is drawing in a cohort of students who are performing better academically than in previous years.

Overall, Hilbert College appears to be adapting to changing educational landscapes, embracing a more diverse applicant pool while maintaining academic rigor. This shift could be reflective of nationwide trends where institutions are becoming more holistic in their admissions processes, focusing on a wider range of student experiences and achievements beyond standardized test scores.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

1,392 applicants in 2025, 97.2% admitted

1,353 admitted 39 not admitted Yield 18.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate140 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1391 international (0.7%)
Master's140 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
44
Forensic Science and Technology
33
Psychology, General
17
Business Administration and Management, General
14
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
9
Human Services, General
7
Accounting
5
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
4
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
4
English Language and Literature, General
1

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Public Administration · Master's10 (0% international)
  • Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Hilbert College in 2023

The graduation data from Hilbert College for 2023 reveals several intriguing trends regarding the degrees awarded across various disciplines. Notably, the Forensic Science and Technology program stands out with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, totaling 43 graduates. This reflects the increasing interest and demand for forensic professionals in law enforcement and criminal justice, particularly in light of growing crime rates and the need for advanced investigative techniques.

The Criminal Justice/Police Science program also shows strong graduation numbers, with 36 bachelor's degrees, underscoring the sustained relevance of this field as society grapples with complex legal and social issues. The presence of international students within these programs, albeit minimal, indicates a global interest in these disciplines, which might be fueled by the international focus on crime prevention and law enforcement reforms.

On the other hand, fields like Psychology and Business Administration show modest graduation numbers, suggesting a potential oversaturation of graduates in these areas. This situation prompts a conversation about job market dynamics and the need for students to align their educational pursuits with labor market demands.

Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of master's and doctoral graduates in many fields, particularly in Business and Health Services Administration. This gap could signify a broader challenge within these disciplines, potentially leading to a re-evaluation of graduate programs to better prepare students for advanced roles in their respective fields.

Overall, the data reflects the evolving landscape of higher education, where some fields flourish while others face significant hurdles, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and adaptation in program offerings to meet current and future workforce demands.

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

Homeland security has 83 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$44,128-$56,579
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$44,128-$56,579
Forensic Science and Technology.$37,877
Businesshas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Psychology has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Public administrationhas 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Human Services, General.-
Public Administration.-
Communication has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Liberal arts has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Health professionshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Biologyhas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Social sciencehas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-

Students

968 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 63.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (931)

White
520 · 55.9%
Unknown
132 · 14.2%
Black
113 · 12.1%
Hispanic
84 · 9.0%
Two or more races
41 · 4.4%
International
21 · 2.3%
Asian
12 · 1.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
5.0%
18–19
38.0%
20–21
31.3%
22–24
11.0%
25 and over
14.7%

Graduate students

Under 22
10.8%
22–24
35.1%
25–29
10.8%
30–34
18.9%
35 and over
24.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Hilbert College in 2023

The student demographics at Hilbert College for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and evolving academic community. With a total of 280 undergraduate freshmen, there is a notable balance in gender representation, with 53.2% identifying as male and 46.8% as female. This slight male majority reflects a broader trend seen in many undergraduate programs, although efforts to achieve gender parity continue.

Among the continuing undergraduate students, the total number is 462, with a more pronounced female representation at 56.1%, compared to 43.9% male. This shift might indicate a growing trend of female students pursuing higher education, which aligns with national observations of increasing female enrollment across various academic fields.

The transfer student population consists of 85 individuals, showing a balanced gender ratio of 47.1% male and 52.9% female. This demographic stability could suggest that both male and female students find value in transitioning to Hilbert College to complete their degrees.

However, the graduate student cohort is significantly smaller, with only 36 students enrolled, and a notable skew towards female students at 63.9%. This disparity raises questions about the fields of study chosen by male and female students at the graduate level, and what factors might be influencing these choices.

Overall, while the data lacks detailed ethnic breakdowns for all categories, the indications of gender representation show a college environment that is increasingly welcoming to women, particularly in the undergraduate and graduate tiers. Future initiatives could focus on further encouraging male enrollment in graduate programs to create a more balanced academic environment.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Hilbert College in 2023

The age distribution of students at Hilbert College reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a significant concentration in the 18-21 age group. Specifically, 58% of undergraduates fall within the 18-19 bracket, while those aged 20-21 constitute an additional 27% of the undergraduate population. This trend aligns with national patterns observed in higher education, where younger students, particularly recent high school graduates, form the majority.

Interestingly, the total number of male students is noticeably lower than that of females across all age categories. For instance, in the 18-19 age group, there are 121 male undergraduates compared to 164 female undergraduates, reflecting a broader trend in academia where female enrollment has been increasing. This gender imbalance is particularly pronounced in younger age cohorts and could have implications for campus culture and dynamics.

As students grow older, the numbers begin to taper off significantly. In the 25-29 age range, only 16 students are enrolled, indicating a drop-off as students transition into their careers or other life commitments. The presence of older students aged 30 and above is minimal, suggesting that Hilbert College may primarily attract traditional-age students.

Overall, the data highlights a youthful and predominantly female student body at Hilbert College, with potential implications for future academic offerings and support services tailored to meet the needs of this demographic. As trends in higher education continue to evolve, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for institutions aiming to foster inclusivity and support diverse student populations.

International Students

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

Undergraduates2.3%

21 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.6%2017: 0.5%2018: 0.4%2019: 0.3%2020: 1.0%2021: 0.8%2022: 1.2%2023: 1.8%2024: 2.4%2025: 2.3%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 1.8%2018: 2.2%2019: 0.0%2020: 2.3%2021: 1.8%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Hilbert College

The data on international students at Hilbert College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both undergraduate and graduate enrollment figures. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates has seen a gradual increase, peaking at 1.78% in 2023, after a low of 0.09% in 2007. This upward trend suggests that the college has been more successful in attracting international students in recent years, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of diversity and global perspectives.

On the graduate side, while the overall numbers are relatively low, the percentage of international students has varied significantly. Notably, in 2013, the graduate student body had a peak of 2.38% international representation, which is commendable for a smaller institution. However, this figure has fluctuated, indicating that the college may face challenges in maintaining consistent international enrollment in graduate programs.

The data also suggests a possible correlation between global events and international student enrollment trends. Factors such as travel restrictions, visa regulations, and the global pandemic have likely influenced these numbers. For instance, the slight dip in undergraduate international students in 2019 and 2020 coincides with the onset of the pandemic, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt their recruitment strategies to meet the changing global landscape.

Overall, these trends highlight the importance of strategic initiatives aimed at increasing international student enrollment, which not only enriches the academic environment but also supports the institution's global outreach and engagement objectives.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$48,660

Undergraduate tuition
$33,740
Room and board
$14,920
Graduate tuition
$21,177
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 63% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 59%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$21.0M

Tuition and fees
$13.6M64.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.7M17.5%
Investment return
$1.5M7.3%
Gifts and private grants
$836K4.0%
Government grants and contracts
$243K1.2%
Other
$1.1M5.2%

Expenses$22.4M

Instruction
$7.3M32.7%
Institutional support
$7.1M31.9%
Student services
$5.5M24.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.0M8.8%
Academic support
$469K2.1%

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
$57,003peers $65,931
Professor
$68,067peers $77,501
Associate professor
$53,721peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$50,556peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Division III Independents · Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference

Division III Independents: football

Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football53-
Lacrosse2322
Soccer2221
Baseball36-
Volleyball1320
Basketball1811
Softball-18
Ice Hockey-14
Cross Country66
Golf62
Bowling-8
2024
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football66-
Soccer2124
Baseball39-
Lacrosse1717
Volleyball1416
Basketball1910
Track and Field (Outdoor)199
Softball-23
Cross Country810
Ice Hockey-16
Bowling-9
Golf8-
2023
NCAA Division III with footballMENWOMEN
Football75-
Soccer2119
Basketball2016
Volleyball1515
Baseball29-
Softball-24
Lacrosse20-
Track and Field (Outdoor)711
Cross Country97
Track and Field (Indoor)87
Ice Hockey-13
Bowling-7
Golf--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Hilbert College:

  1. University at Buffalo - Ranked 76th in the 2024 US News rankings, this is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and research opportunities.

  2. University of Rochester - With a rank of 47, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.

  3. Cornell University - An Ivy League institution, it ranks 12th in the nation, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and is known for its rigorous academic standards.

  4. Syracuse University - This comprehensive university, ranked 67th, is celebrated for its programs in communications, business, and public affairs.

  5. Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th, this institution is renowned for its strong programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts.

Each of these schools offers unique strengths and opportunities for students, making them excellent options for higher education in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
66
Drug referrals
9
Rape
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 and Disciplinary Actions at Hilbert College

The data from Hilbert College reveals a fluctuating trend in the rates of disciplinary actions and criminal incidents on campus over the years. Notably, the average disciplinary rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2020 at 32.38, which was significantly higher than in previous years. This spike may correlate with the increased stress and changes in social behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many students faced isolation and uncertainty, potentially leading to higher instances of violations such as drug and alcohol-related arrests.

In contrast, the years following 2020 show a decline in the average rates, particularly in 2023, which recorded the lowest rate of 8.67 per 1,000 students. This decline could suggest that the college administration's efforts to enhance campus safety and support systems are beginning to take effect. Additionally, consistent efforts in education about responsible behavior and mental health resources may have contributed to this positive trend.

Examining the types of offenses, reports of gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents seem to dominate the statistics, indicating areas that require ongoing attention from campus security and local law enforcement. The college community must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues to create a safer environment for students.

Overall, while the data presents some concerning trends, the recent decline in crime rates offers hope that the college is moving in the right direction. Continuous monitoring and strategic interventions will be essential for maintaining and further improving campus safety. For more information on calculating crime rates, visit this link.

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.