St Bonaventure University
Acceptance rate
81.6%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$41,735
$57,035 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,042
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
68.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 73.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
St. Bonaventure University, located in Western New York, is a private Franciscan university known for its commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students. Established in 1858, the university emphasizes a values-based education grounded in the principles of the Franciscan tradition, which highlights respect for all individuals, community service, and social justice. The university's motto, "Veritas, Caritas, et Honor," which translates to "Truth, Charity, and Honor," reflects its dedication to nurturing not only knowledgeable graduates but also compassionate and ethical leaders.
The campus is characterized by a vibrant community atmosphere, where students enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities and sports. The university's athletic teams, known as the Bonnies, compete at the NCAA Division I level, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. St. Bonaventure also boasts impressive facilities, including modern classrooms, labs, and recreational spaces that enhance the learning experience. With a strong focus on liberal arts education, the university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in areas such as journalism, business, and education. The supportive faculty and small class sizes promote meaningful interactions and personalized attention, preparing students for successful careers and instilling a lifelong love for learning.
Analysis of Key Metrics at St. Bonaventure University
St. Bonaventure University, a private institution, has demonstrated notable trends in several vital metrics over the years. One of the most striking observations is the upward trajectory of tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students increased from $29,589 to $40,150, marking a growth of approximately 35.6%. This rise in tuition reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions face increasing operational costs, often passed on to students. Such financial burdens can impact student enrollment and diversity, as potential students may be deterred by high costs.
Simultaneously, the student population has shown some fluctuations, with undergraduate enrollment peaking in 2019 at 1,814 students, then slightly decreasing to 1,856 in 2023. This pattern suggests that while there may be a temporary increase in interest, the overall enrollment trend remains sensitive to external economic factors and institutional reputation.
Another critical aspect to highlight is the graduation rates, which have improved significantly. The on-time graduation rate climbed from 53.1% in 2013 to 65.5% in 2023. This increase can be attributed to improved support systems for students, including academic advising and resources aimed at enhancing student success. Likewise, the retention rate fluctuated but remained relatively high, indicating that once students enroll, they are generally satisfied with their experience.
Lastly, the gender ratio in the undergraduate population has slightly shifted towards a higher percentage of female students, with women comprising approximately 55% of the undergraduate demographic in recent years. This trend reflects a broader national shift in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
In conclusion, while St. Bonaventure University faces challenges related to rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment, its improvements in graduation and retention rates are encouraging signs of institutional effectiveness and student support. As the university navigates these dynamics, it will be essential to balance affordability with educational quality to maintain its attractiveness to prospective students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Buffalo, about 60 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), about 60 mi
- Also known as
- St. Bona/Bonas
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Jeff Gingerich (President)
- Phone
- 7163752000
- Address
- 3261 W. State Road, Saint Bonaventure, NY 14778-9800
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 77.0%, women 73.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at St. Bonaventure University
The admission data for St. Bonaventure University from 2009 to 2023 reveals significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Over the years, the acceptance rate for male applicants has seen a general decline, from approximately 92% in 2009 to around 80% in 2023. The female acceptance rate has followed a similar pattern, decreasing from about 91% to approximately 82% in the same period. This decline suggests a tightening of admission standards, potentially in response to an increasing number of applications or a strategy to enhance the institution's academic profile.
The enrollment numbers have fluctuated during these years, with a peak in 2022 when 485 students were enrolled despite a high number of applicants being denied or deferred. Notably, the number of students denied admission saw a significant rise, reaching 1,019 in 2016, which may indicate a competitive landscape for prospective students.
Moreover, the data shows a consistent increase in the number of students deferred, indicating that the university is likely adopting a more selective approach, allowing them to assess applicants further before making final decisions. The overall trend reflects a broader shift in higher education, where institutions are becoming increasingly selective, a phenomenon often attributed to the growing emphasis on not just quantity but quality of student enrollment.
In summary, the admission data for St. Bonaventure University reflects a strategic shift towards selectivity, in line with national trends in higher education, which may ultimately enhance the university's reputation and academic excellence.
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Business School5 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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 19% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at St. Bonaventure University
The admissions data for St. Bonaventure University over the years from 2007 to 2023 reveals intriguing trends regarding standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, the number of applicants submitting SAT scores has declined significantly, dropping from 452 in 2007 to just 190 in 2023, marking a decrease of approximately 58%. This decline is mirrored by a drop in the percentage of students submitting scores, which fell from 98% to 33% in the same period.
Despite the decrease in the number of submissions, the range of scores—particularly for SAT reading and mathematics—has shown fluctuations. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading score ranged from 470 to 530, while the 75th percentile has also varied, indicating some years where students have performed better than in others. The most recent data shows that students in 2023 scored between 520 and 610, suggesting a slight improvement in the quality of scores among those who chose to submit.
This trend of decreasing applicants submitting standardized test scores is in line with a broader national movement toward test-optional admissions policies in higher education, which many institutions adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As universities increasingly recognize the limitations of standardized tests in capturing a student's potential, it raises questions about how institutions like St. Bonaventure will adjust their admissions strategies moving forward. Balancing the need for a diverse and academically strong student body while navigating these changes will be crucial for the university's future enrollment strategies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,207 applicants in 2025, 81.6% admitted
3,435 admitted 772 not admitted Yield 17.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's77 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's57 (5% international)
- Physician Assistant · Master's38 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's14 (0% international)
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance · Master's14 (7% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's14 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at St. Bonaventure University
The graduation data from St. Bonaventure University for 2023 presents intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, the Counselor Education program stands out with a significant number of master's degree graduates, totaling 118. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on mental health and counseling services in educational settings, reflecting societal needs and increased investment in mental health resources.
In the realm of business studies, several programs report a healthy number of graduates, particularly in General Business Administration, Marketing, and Finance. These programs collectively produced a noteworthy number of graduates at both the bachelor's and master's levels, indicating the institution's strength in preparing students for the competitive business environment. The presence of international students, especially in the master's programs, suggests a diverse academic community, which is essential in today's globalized economy.
Interestingly, the health-related programs also demonstrate a solid graduation output. The Physician Assistant and Public Health programs, in particular, are crucial given the ongoing global health challenges. The emergence of these fields is timely, as there is a rising demand for healthcare professionals.
On the other hand, certain fields like Environmental Studies and various interdisciplinary programs have fewer graduates. This could indicate a potential area for growth, as interdisciplinary studies are increasingly relevant in addressing complex global issues.
Overall, St. Bonaventure University’s graduation data reflects a balanced approach to education, with strong performances in key areas like counseling and business, while also highlighting opportunities for growth in emerging fields. This diverse academic environment not only enriches the student experience but also prepares graduates to meet the evolving demands of the workforce.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $47,773-$68,338 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $46,236 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $49,221 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $47,412 | ||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $54,216 | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - | ||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Physician Assistant. | - | ||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||
| Community Health and Preventive Medicine. | - | ||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - | ||
| Journalism. | $46,001-$71,120 | ||
| Broadcast Journalism. | $46,001-$71,120 | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $42,937 | ||
| Sports Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $27,773 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $117,157 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||
| International/Globalization Studies. | - | ||
| Human Biology. | - | ||
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Development. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,752 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 85.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,354
- First-year undergraduates 591
- Graduate students 710
- Transfers and others 97
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,042)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at St. Bonaventure University in 2023
The student demographics at St. Bonaventure University in 2023 reveal a diverse and dynamic population. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 571 students, with a notable male representation of 53.9% and female representation of 46.1%. This slight male majority mirrors trends seen in many American universities, where male students often outnumber females in certain disciplines.
In the undergraduate junior category, the numbers are more pronounced, with a total of 1,163 students, of which 55.5% are male and 44.5% are female. The higher male ratio could indicate particular fields of study or cultural factors influencing student choices.
Undergraduate transfer students show a smaller cohort of 57, but they present a significant male majority at 64.9%. This suggests that male students may be more inclined to pursue transfer opportunities, potentially related to both academic and personal factors.
Graduate students, however, showcase a shift in gender representation, with 746 students comprising 36.9% male and 63.1% female. This trend aligns with broader observations that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, often outnumbering men in graduate programs.
The racial and ethnic diversity within the student body remains an important aspect to explore, particularly as universities strive for inclusivity. The data, while not exhaustive in this regard, hints at a variety of backgrounds among the students. As St. Bonaventure University continues to foster an inclusive environment, it will be essential to monitor and support the diverse needs of its student population, ensuring that all students feel represented and valued in their academic pursuits.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at St. Bonaventure University
The age distribution of students at St. Bonaventure University reveals significant trends that reflect broader educational patterns and societal changes. The largest cohort of students, aged 18-19, consists of 513 male undergraduates and 429 female undergraduates, illustrating that traditional college-age students dominate the university's demographic. This aligns with national trends, where a significant portion of college enrollment comes from recent high school graduates.
In the 20-21 age group, there are notable shifts with 382 male undergraduates and 317 female undergraduates, alongside a small number of graduate students. This indicates that while traditional-age students continue to enroll, there is also a growing diversity in age among students, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 categories where graduate enrollment is more pronounced, especially among females.
The data shows a clear inclination towards older students pursuing graduate studies, particularly females, who number 150 in the 22-24 age range and 130 in the 25-29 age range. This trend may reflect the increasing need for advanced degrees in today's job market, as well as the evolving role of women in higher education.
Interestingly, the participation of students aged 30 and above is relatively low, with only a handful of males and females in these age categories, suggesting that while adult learners are present, they remain a minority.
Overall, the demographics at St. Bonaventure University demonstrate a strong foundation of traditional students, supplemented by a growing population of graduate students, particularly women, indicating a shift towards lifelong learning and professional development in higher education.
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.
105 in 2025 · 2.3% in 2016
13 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at St. Bonaventure University
The data surrounding international student enrollment at St. Bonaventure University reveals several interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has fluctuated, with a notable increase in the percentage of international students among the undergraduate population from 1.53% to 3.83%. This growth could indicate a more welcoming environment or increased recruitment efforts targeting international students.
In contrast, the percentage of international students in graduate programs has remained relatively low, peaking at 3.78% in 2005 but declining to 2.28% by 2023. This discrepancy might suggest that while the university is successfully attracting international undergraduates, it faces challenges in appealing to graduate students.
The overall decline in total student enrollment at the university, particularly in graduate programs, raises concerns about the institution's competitiveness in a changing educational landscape. Many universities are ramping up their efforts to attract international students, who contribute not only to campus diversity but also to financial stability through tuition fees.
It is crucial for St. Bonaventure University to analyze these trends and develop strategies to enhance its appeal to both undergraduate and graduate international students. Strengthening partnerships with foreign institutions, improving support services, and marketing the unique aspects of their programs could be pivotal in reversing the downward trend in graduate enrollment. As global mobility continues to evolve, the university's ability to adapt will be essential for its future success.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$57,035
- Undergraduate tuition
- $41,735
- Room and board
- $15,300
- Graduate tuition
- $16,087
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 37%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$95.4M
Expenses$79.3M
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 · Atlantic 10 Conference
Atlantic 10 Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 105 | 108 |
| Lacrosse | 54 | 33 |
| Soccer | 32 | 29 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 26 | 24 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Golf | 10 | - |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 93 | 87 |
| Lacrosse | 51 | 31 |
| Soccer | 32 | 31 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 32 | 27 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Basketball | 15 | 10 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division I without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 75 | 70 |
| Lacrosse | 45 | 37 |
| Soccer | 32 | 30 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 25 | 23 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Tennis | 9 | 7 |
| Golf | 11 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
D'Youville UniversityBuffalo · 60.5 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University at BuffaloBuffalo · 65.5 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester · 80.6 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Gannon UniversityErie · 82.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of RochesterRochester · 84.2 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Allegheny CollegeMeadville · 90.8 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Hobart and William Smith CollegesGeneva · 93.3 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
The Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity Park · 94.3 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Cornell UniversityIthaca · 105.3 mi
U.S. News #14
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near St. Bonaventure University:
-
University at Buffalo - Ranked 76th in the 2024 US News rankings, this public research university is part of the State University of New York system and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Rochester Institute of Technology - With a ranking of 98, this institution is renowned for its career-oriented programs and strong emphasis on technology, arts, and sciences.
-
University of Rochester - This prestigious university ranks 47th and is known for its research initiatives and a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
-
Cornell University - A member of the Ivy League, Cornell is ranked 12th and is recognized for its diverse programs and commitment to research and public service.
-
Carnegie Mellon University - This top-tier university ranks 24th and is highly regarded for its programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts.
These institutions contribute to a vibrant academic landscape in the region, offering various opportunities for students and collaborations.
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 St. Bonaventure University
The crime data from St. Bonaventure University over the past decade highlights noticeable fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. The highest recorded rate was in 2013, with approximately 45.51 incidents per 1,000 students, while the lowest occurred in 2023, with a significant drop to 23.67. This downward trend towards a more secure campus environment is encouraging and reflects positively on university policies and community engagement efforts aimed at crime prevention.
Examining specific crime categories, the data illustrates a consistent absence of gun-related arrests and incidents on campus, which is reassuring given the current national discussions surrounding gun violence in educational institutions. However, drug and alcohol-related arrests, while never peaking as high as other universities might experience, still present a concern that warrants ongoing educational initiatives and support systems for students.
The rise in incidents of domestic violence and dating violence, though not overwhelming, remains an area that universities across the nation must address more vigorously. The increase in awareness and reporting of such incidents suggests a cultural shift towards acknowledging and combating these serious issues.
Overall, while the trend in crime rates appears to be decreasing, St. Bonaventure University must continue to foster a safe and supportive environment for its students, focusing on preventative measures and educational programs to reduce substance abuse and domestic violence. For further details on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 25Notable alumni of St Bonaventure University include Chuck Daly (Basketball coach, led Pistons and 1992 Dream Team), Danica Roem (Virginia state senator and former journalist) and Bob Lanier (Professional basketball player).
-
Chuck Daly 1930–2009
Basketball coach, led Pistons and 1992 Dream Team
-
Danica Roem 1984–
Virginia state senator and former journalist
-
Bob Lanier 1948–2022
Professional basketball player
-
Andrew Nicholson 1989–
Canadian professional basketball player
-
Mychal Judge 1933–2001
FDNY chaplain, first certified 9/11 fatality
-
J.R. Bremer 1980–
Former pro basketball player, NBA All-Rookie second team
-
John Joseph McGraw 1873–1934
Baseball player and longtime New York Giants manager
-
David Vanterpool 1973–
Basketball coach and former player
-
Ogo Adegboye 1987–
Nigerian-British professional basketball player
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.