Niagara University
Acceptance rate
87.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$39,345
$52,745 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,692
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
64.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 71.8%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Niagara University, located in Lewiston, New York, is a private Catholic institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Founded in 1856, the university emphasizes a holistic educational approach that integrates liberal arts and professional studies. With a strong emphasis on service and social justice, Niagara's mission is to prepare students to be ethical leaders in a global society. The university's core values are reflected in its motto, "The Truth Will Set You Free," underscoring its dedication to fostering critical thinking and moral leadership among its students.
The campus boasts a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, featuring modern facilities that support a diverse range of academic programs. Niagara University offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree options, with notable strengths in business, education, and health sciences. The faculty are highly qualified and dedicated, often bringing real-world experience into the classroom, which enhances the learning experience for students. Moreover, Niagara's location near the iconic Niagara Falls provides students with unique recreational opportunities and a picturesque setting that fosters personal growth and exploration. The university is also active in promoting a balanced student life, with various athletic programs and student organizations that encourage participation, leadership, and camaraderie among students. Overall, Niagara University fosters a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to excel academically while also engaging with their community and developing as responsible global citizens.
Analysis of Niagara University's Key Metrics
Niagara University, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends across several key metrics over the years. One of the most significant indicators is tuition costs, which have steadily increased. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition rose from $28,200 in 2014 to $38,135 in 2024, reflecting a cumulative increase of approximately 35.4%. This trend mirrors the broader national concern regarding rising college costs, which can deter potential students and place a financial burden on families.
In terms of retention rates, there has been a fluctuating pattern. The retention rate peaked at approximately 87.5% in 2016 but has since seen a decline, settling around 79% in 2023. This decline may signal challenges in maintaining student satisfaction and support, which are crucial for ongoing enrollment and institutional reputation.
Graduation rates have shown an overall improvement, with the on-time graduation rate increasing from about 61.1% in 2013 to 70.8% in 2023. This upward trend is encouraging and suggests that Niagara University is enhancing its support for students to ensure they complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduates indicates a consistent female majority, with women making up approximately 65% of the undergraduate population in recent years. This demographic trend may influence campus culture and programming, as institutions increasingly focus on inclusivity and diversity in their offerings.
Overall, while Niagara University demonstrates progress in graduation rates, the rising tuition and declining retention rates indicate areas that require strategic attention to ensure sustainable growth and student success in the future.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Buffalo, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), about 20 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- James J. Maher, C.M. (President)
- Phone
- 7162851212
- Address
- 5795 Lewiston Road, Niagara University, NY 14109
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 91.0%, women 88.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Niagara University's Admission Trends
The admission data for Niagara University reveals significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. From 2009 to 2023, we observe fluctuations in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. Notably, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 90.96% in 2021, while the female acceptance rate reached its highest at around 93.63% in the same year. This trend suggests a growing accessibility to the university, particularly for female students, which aligns with national trends of increasing female enrollment in higher education.
Interestingly, the total enrollment numbers have varied, peaking at 742 in 2009 and dropping to 545 by 2023. Despite the fluctuations in enrollment, the university has maintained a relatively consistent number of denials each year, with a notable peak in 2013 when 1,159 applicants were denied. This inconsistency might reflect changes in the university's strategic focus or shifts in the applicant pool's quality and quantity.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has shown a general upward trend, indicating that the university may be taking more time to evaluate applicants before making final decisions. This could be a response to the increasingly competitive landscape of college admissions, where institutions are seeking to ensure they admit students who meet their academic and community standards.
Overall, Niagara University appears to be navigating a complex admissions landscape, balancing accessibility with selectivity. As the higher education sector continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends impact the university's reputation and enrollment strategies in the coming years.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 17% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Niagara University
The data from Niagara University over the years indicates some notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for both the SAT and ACT. From 2007 to 2023, we observe a gradual decline in the number of students submitting SAT scores, dropping from 689 submissions in 2007 to just 161 in 2023, which represents a decrease from 97% of applicants to merely 30%. This trend aligns with a broader national movement as many colleges are opting for test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores, thereby affecting submission rates significantly.
Despite the decrease in submissions, the score ranges for the SAT have shown some fluctuations. The 25th percentile scores for reading and mathematics have remained relatively stable over the years, with the upper quartile scores showing a slight increase in recent years. For instance, in 2023, the 25th percentile scores in reading and mathematics reached 510 and 620, respectively. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to perform better, possibly indicating a shift towards a more qualified applicant pool.
Additionally, the ACT scores, although not detailed in this particular dataset, could likely follow a similar trend. The growing trend of holistic admissions processes, emphasizing grades, essays, and extracurricular activities over standardized test scores, has transformed the admissions landscape. This shift reflects ongoing discussions in higher education about equity and access, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic which further complicated standardized testing availability and accessibility.
In conclusion, while Niagara University’s data shows a decline in test score submissions, the quality of scores appears to be improving among those who do submit. This evolving landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for institutions aiming to attract diverse and capable student bodies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
4,197 applicants in 2025, 87.4% admitted
3,667 admitted 530 not admitted Yield 14.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's184 (88% international)
- Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs · Master's160 (0% international)
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other · Master's68 (4% international)
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's56 (61% international)
- Applied Behavior Analysis · Master's43 (0% international)
- Biology Teacher Education · Master's25 (88% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Niagara University
The graduation data from Niagara University for 2023 reveals some interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the field of Registered Nursing stands out with a significant number of bachelor degree graduates, totaling 90, alongside 2 international students achieving the same qualification. This reflects the ongoing demand for qualified nurses, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the critical role of healthcare professionals.
In the realm of education, the Superintendency and Educational System Administration program produced 78 master’s degree graduates, indicating a strong interest in leadership roles within educational institutions. Additionally, the Elementary Education and Teaching program yielded 67 master’s degree graduates, with a notable 45 being international students. This suggests that Niagara University is a preferred choice for those pursuing advanced studies in education, particularly for individuals seeking to enhance their teaching qualifications on a global scale.
On the other hand, certain programs like Business and Financial Planning reported lower graduation rates, with only 44 graduates in the general business category and no graduates in Financial Planning and Services. This could reflect a broader trend within the business sector, where students may be opting for more specialized or practical training outside traditional degree programs.
Overall, the data underscores the diverse fields of study at Niagara University, with a clear emphasis on healthcare and education, while also revealing areas that may require attention to attract more students. The presence of international students in various programs indicates the university's growing reputation as a global educational hub.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $64,605 | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,300-$65,354 | ||||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $51,300-$65,354 | ||||
| Accounting. | $53,907-$61,565 | ||||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||||
| Public Finance. | - | ||||
| Tourism and Travel Services Management. | $46,862 | ||||
| Hotel, Motel, and Restaurant Management. | $46,862 | ||||
| Actuarial Science. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $42,688 | ||||
| Marketing, Other. | $42,688 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,978 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | $35,492 | ||||
| School Psychology. | - | ||||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $43,484 | ||||
| Economics, General. | - | ||||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $39,197 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $56,336 | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $42,606 | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||||
| Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Policy Analysis, General. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $39,825 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $28,883 | ||||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $40,275 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerontology. | - | ||||
| Financial Analytics. | - | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
4,033 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 80.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,004
- First-year undergraduates 533
- Graduate students 1,341
- Transfers and others 155
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,692)
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Niagara University Students in 2023
The 2023 student demographic data from Niagara University reveals a diverse and vibrant community, particularly notable in terms of gender distribution and ethnic representation. The undergraduate first-year students, comprising 545 individuals, show a significant female majority, with 64.8% identifying as female compared to 35.2% male. This trend of higher female enrollment continues among upperclassmen, where the percentage of female students rises slightly to 65.5% among 2016 students.
Graduate students also reflect a similar gender dynamic, with 64.1% female representation. This consistent pattern across various student categories suggests that Niagara University is attracting a predominantly female student body, which is in line with broader trends observed in higher education across the United States, where women have been enrolling in college at higher rates than men.
Furthermore, the data highlights the importance of ethnic diversity within the student population. While specific figures for ethnic subgroups are not entirely available, the inclusion of various categories such as White, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students indicates the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The presence of students from diverse backgrounds enriches the educational experience and promotes cultural exchange.
Overall, Niagara University's demographic trends in 2023 underscore a significant female presence and a push towards greater diversity, aligning with national educational patterns and societal shifts towards inclusivity in academia. These insights reflect the university's ongoing efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
Age Demographics at Niagara University in 2023
The age demographics of students at Niagara University in 2023 reveal significant insights into the composition of the student body. Notably, the largest groups are found in the 18-19 and 20-21 age categories, with 356 male undergraduates and 646 female undergraduates in the 18-19 range alone. This indicates a strong influx of traditional college-aged students, reflecting a trend seen across many universities as they attract younger students directly from high school.
Interestingly, the proportion of graduate students appears to increase with age. For instance, in the 22-24 age group, there are 105 male graduate students compared to only 128 male undergraduates. This suggests that as students progress in their academic careers, there is a tendency to pursue advanced degrees, potentially driven by the growing job market demands for higher qualifications.
In the older age brackets, the student population diminishes significantly. For instance, only 8 males and 45 females are aged 35-39. This decline highlights the challenges faced by non-traditional students, who may juggle education with other life responsibilities, such as work or family.
Furthermore, the total number of female students consistently exceeds that of male students across all age categories, indicating an ongoing trend in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment. Overall, these patterns reflect broader societal shifts, including women's increased participation in higher education and the complexities surrounding adult learning. As universities continue to adapt to these demographic changes, understanding student needs across various age groups will be paramount for fostering an inclusive educational environment.
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.
695 in 2025 · 14.1% in 2016
510 in 2025 · 21.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Niagara University
The data on international student enrollment at Niagara University reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, there has been a significant increase in the number of international undergraduate students, growing from 110 to 584. This rise reflects a shift in the university's appeal to a diverse student body, with the proportion of international undergraduates increasing from approximately 4% to over 21% in the same period.
The graduate student demographic, however, presents a more fluctuating pattern. Although there was a peak in international graduate students in 2008, the overall trend indicates a decline in the proportion of international students at the graduate level, dropping from over 30% in the mid-2000s to about 25% in 2023. This decline may be influenced by various factors, including changes in immigration policies, competition from other institutions, and shifts in global educational trends.
Overall, the data suggests that while Niagara University has successfully attracted more international undergraduate students, challenges remain in maintaining a robust international presence among graduate students. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, the university may need to adapt its strategies to enhance its appeal to graduate students from abroad. Such efforts could involve promoting research opportunities, enhancing support services, and fostering partnerships with institutions overseas, ensuring a diverse and vibrant academic community for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$52,745
- Undergraduate tuition
- $39,345
- Room and board
- $13,400
- Graduate tuition
- $15,606
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 32% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 9%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$105M
Expenses$110M
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 31 |
| Swimming | 28 | 28 |
| Lacrosse | - | 33 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Ice Hockey | 28 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 25 |
| Cross Country | 11 | 8 |
| Golf | 9 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Tennis | 7 | 7 |
| Bowling | - | 13 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 23 | 27 |
| Swimming | 26 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | - | 37 |
| Baseball | 35 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 12 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 20 |
| Tennis | 10 | 9 |
| Golf | 8 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Bowling | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 34 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 30 | 26 |
| Lacrosse | - | 37 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Golf | 8 | 11 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University at BuffaloBuffalo · 15.6 mi
U.S. News #85
-
D'Youville UniversityBuffalo · 17.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester · 68.8 mi
U.S. News #95
-
University of RochesterRochester · 70.9 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Gannon UniversityErie · 87.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Hobart and William Smith CollegesGeneva · 105.4 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Allegheny CollegeMeadville · 117.4 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Cornell UniversityIthaca · 138.0 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse · 146.6 mi
U.S. News #72
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Niagara University:
-
University at Buffalo (Rank: 76) - A comprehensive public university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its research initiatives and diverse student body.
-
Rochester Institute of Technology (Rank: 98) - A private university renowned for its focus on technology and applied sciences, providing hands-on learning experiences.
-
University of Rochester (Rank: 47) - A prestigious research university that emphasizes interdisciplinary education across various fields, including music and health sciences.
-
Cornell University (Rank: 12) - An Ivy League institution offering a broad range of programs, known for its research output and beautiful campus.
-
Syracuse University (Rank: 67) - A private research university offering a variety of programs, particularly known for its communications and public affairs studies.
-
Binghamton University (Rank: 73) - A public university recognized for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life, part of the SUNY system.
-
Case Western Reserve University (Rank: 53) - A private research university with strong programs in engineering, law, and medicine, distinguished by its commitment to research.
These institutions offer diverse educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape of the region.
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 Niagara University
The crime data from Niagara University over the past decade presents a notable trend in campus safety. In 2013, the university recorded a high crime rate of 17.70 per 1,000 students, which reflects a challenging environment for student safety. However, there has been a significant decrease in crime rates over the years, reaching an all-time low of 3.89 in 2021. This decline is commendable, indicating effective crime prevention strategies and a commitment to ensuring student safety on campus.
The most frequently reported offenses have included alcohol-related arrests and drug-related incidents, which have seen fluctuations over the years. Specifically, incidents of alcohol-related arrests decreased from 2013 to 2021, mirroring the overall trend of reduced crime. This is particularly encouraging as universities across the United States grapple with issues related to substance abuse among students.
However, the recent uptick in crime rates in 2022 and 2023, with figures of 8.09 and 6.69 respectively, raises concerns that campus safety measures need to be reassessed. Factors contributing to these increases could include changes in campus policies, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, or shifts in student behavior as they adapt to returning to in-person learning.
Overall, while the data shows a positive trajectory in enhancing campus safety, it also underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. For further details on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Niagara University include John O'Hara (Writer known for short stories), William J. Donovan (Head of the OSS, founding father of the CIA) and Jim Hutton (Actor best known as Ellery Queen).
-
John O'Hara 1905–1970
Writer known for short stories
-
William J. Donovan 1883–1959
Head of the OSS, founding father of the CIA
-
Jim Hutton 1934–1979
Actor best known as Ellery Queen
-
Calvin Murphy 1948–
Former NBA guard for the Rockets
-
Joe Arlauckas 1965–
Former professional basketball player
-
John Katko 1962–
Former U.S. Representative from New York
-
Hubie Brown 1933–
Two-time NBA Coach of the Year and analyst
-
Venla Hovi 1987–
Finnish ice hockey player and coach
-
Michael J. McGivney 1852–1890
Catholic priest, founder of Knights of Columbus
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.