St. Thomas Aquinas College
Acceptance rate
93.0%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$39,450
$57,530 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,889
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
41.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 52.4%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
St. Thomas Aquinas College, located in Sparkill, New York, is a private liberal arts college known for its commitment to academic excellence and a strong emphasis on ethics and community service. Founded in 1952, the college is named after Saint Thomas Aquinas, a medieval philosopher and theologian whose works have influenced Western thought. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Sapientia et Caritas," which translates to "Wisdom and Charity." This reflects its dedication to nurturing not only the intellect but also the moral and spiritual growth of its students.
The college offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on the liberal arts, business, and education. Its faculty is comprised of experienced educators and professionals who are dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, which contribute to a vibrant student life. St. Thomas Aquinas College is also committed to promoting a sense of community, with various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that encourage student involvement and personal development. With a picturesque setting along the Hudson River and a focus on holistic education, St. Thomas Aquinas College prepares its graduates not only for successful careers but also for meaningful lives dedicated to service and leadership.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention
Over the past decade, tuition at St. Thomas Aquinas College has shown a consistent upward trend. The annual tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates has increased from $26,340 in 2014 to $37,720 in 2024, representing a substantial rise of approximately 43%. This significant increase in educational costs is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where rising tuition has become a pressing issue for students and families.
Alongside the increasing tuition, graduation rates have also demonstrated a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates rose from around 32.1% in 2013 to nearly 49.8% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the institution may be enhancing its support systems or academic resources, which is encouraging for prospective students considering their potential for success.
Retention rates also play a vital role in assessing the overall student experience. The retention rate for undergraduates has fluctuated but has shown resilience, with a retention rate of approximately 71.2% in 2023. This indicates that a significant majority of students choose to continue their education at the institution, which can be a positive sign of student satisfaction and institutional commitment to supporting learners.
These metrics collectively illustrate the evolving landscape of St. Thomas Aquinas College. The rising tuition juxtaposed with improving graduation and retention rates indicates that while students are facing higher costs, they may also be receiving substantial value in terms of educational outcomes. As higher education continues to adapt to economic pressures and student needs, these indicators will be crucial in shaping the college's future strategies and offerings.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 25 mi
- Also known as
- STAC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Kenneth Daly (President)
- Phone
- 8453984000
- Address
- 125 Rte 340, Sparkill, NY 10976-1050
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 79.3%, women 81.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at St. Thomas Aquinas College
The admission data for St. Thomas Aquinas College reveals significant trends over the years from 2009 to 2023. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, reflecting the changing dynamics of college admissions. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 88.5% in 2022, while the female acceptance rate reached its highest point at about 91.4% in 2023, indicating a growing inclusivity and perhaps a more favorable environment for female applicants.
The number of enrolled students has varied, with a noticeable dip in 2015, where only 209 students were enrolled, compared to 352 in 2009. This decrease might correlate with shifts in the competitive landscape or demographic changes in the applicant pool. Additionally, the number of students denied admission has generally increased over the years, reflecting a tightening of admissions criteria or an increase in applications, particularly evident in 2013 and 2016.
The trend of students deferring admission has also been noteworthy. The number deferred peaked at 1,328 in 2021, possibly influenced by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to uncertainties in higher education planning. This trend highlights the adaptability of students and institutions amidst unforeseen circumstances.
Overall, the data suggests that St. Thomas Aquinas College has been navigating through a competitive admissions landscape, adjusting its strategies to maintain enrollment numbers while ensuring a diverse student body. The college continues to attract a growing number of applicants, which may signal its increasing reputation and appeal in the realm of higher education.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 2% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at St. Thomas Aquinas College
The admissions data from St. Thomas Aquinas College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in standardized test score submissions and performance metrics. As we observe from 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown a gradual decline, dropping from 95% in 2007 to a mere 8% in 2023. This decline may reflect broader national trends where more colleges are adopting test-optional policies, potentially reducing the emphasis on standardized testing in college admissions.
In terms of SAT scores, the range of scores for admitted students has varied, with the 25th percentile starting score increasing from 410 in 2007 to 520 in 2022, before settling at 490 in 2023. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have shown an upward trend, indicating that higher-achieving students are being admitted over the years. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do are generally more competitive, which may reflect the institution's evolving applicant pool and academic standards.
Moreover, the drop in the number of students submitting ACT scores mirrors the SAT trends, as the college is seeing a shift in how students approach standardized testing. With the overall acceptance rates and scores trending upwards for those who do submit, it prompts an interesting discussion on the future of standardized assessments in college admissions. As colleges continue to adapt to changing societal views on testing, it's crucial for institutions like St. Thomas Aquinas College to balance the integrity of their admissions process while remaining accessible to a diverse range of applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
2,200 applicants in 2025, 93.0% admitted
2,047 admitted 153 not admitted Yield 11.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's29 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's11 (36% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's7 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's6 (0% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's4 (0% international)
- Art Teacher Education · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at St. Thomas Aquinas College
The graduation data from St. Thomas Aquinas College reveals interesting trends across various fields of study for the year 2023. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees was awarded in Psychology, with 37 graduates, representing 63.8% of the total bachelor’s degrees conferred in this category, including one international student. This trend aligns with the growing interest in mental health and psychology, reflecting societal needs and career opportunities in these fields.
In the realm of master's degrees, Special Education stands out with 41 graduates, indicating a strong commitment to addressing educational challenges and supporting diverse learners. The absence of international students in this category shows a potential area for growth in attracting global talent, which can enhance the educational environment.
Interestingly, the data shows a notable lack of graduates in the fields of Business Administration and Management, with only 12 bachelor's degrees awarded. This could suggest a shift in student preferences towards more specialized or emerging fields, such as Computer Science and Exercise Science, where six and nine degrees were conferred, respectively.
The overall absence of students graduating with associate degrees across the majority of programs suggests a possible gap in the educational pathway for students seeking entry-level qualifications. Moreover, the limited data on international students highlights an opportunity for St. Thomas Aquinas College to bolster its appeal to a broader demographic, particularly in graduate programs.
In summary, this data not only highlights the strengths of St. Thomas Aquinas College in certain disciplines but also opens a dialogue about potential areas for development, particularly in fostering a more diverse and inclusive academic community.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $59,740 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $67,648 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $67,648 | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $44,525-$66,702 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - | |||
| Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $30,893 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $30,893 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $46,540 | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,681 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $32,776 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
2,037 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 73.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 656
- First-year undergraduates 241
- Graduate students 148
- Transfers and others 992
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,889)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at St. Thomas Aquinas College in 2023
In 2023, St. Thomas Aquinas College exhibited a diverse student demographic across its various categories. The incoming undergraduate freshmen comprised 245 students, with a gender ratio reflecting a slight male majority at 51.8%. This trend continued among undergraduate upperclassmen, where the total population reached 699, maintaining a similar male predominance of 52.2%.
Undergraduate transfer students, although fewer in number at 72, showed a more pronounced male dominance with 59.7%. In contrast, the graduate student body, consisting of 174 individuals, was predominantly female, with only 36.8% being male. This shift highlights a significant gender disparity within graduate studies, wherein female representation appears to be stronger, possibly reflecting broader societal trends where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
The total number of non-degree students reached 843, with a balanced gender ratio of 44.6% male and 55.4% female. This suggests that non-degree programs may attract a more diverse demographic in terms of gender.
Examining ethnic diversity, the white student population was notable across all categories, particularly among undergraduates. The data indicates that white students made up a significant portion of both the freshmen and upperclassmen bodies, while graduate students also displayed a similar trend. This demographic snapshot provides insight into the college's student composition and could serve as a foundation for discussions on inclusivity and representation within higher education. Overall, the findings suggest a need for ongoing efforts to foster diversity across all student categories, especially in graduate programs where female representation is already leading.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at St. Thomas Aquinas College
The age distribution among students at St. Thomas Aquinas College presents an interesting profile, highlighting a predominantly younger student body. The largest group consists of students under 18, with 370 male undergraduates and 469 female undergraduates, indicating a strong influx of traditional-age students entering higher education. This trend is consistent with national statistics, which show that younger students typically dominate college enrollments.
As we progress through the age brackets, we see a gradual decline in student numbers, particularly among undergraduates aged 25-29, where only 28 students are present. This demographic shift mirrors broader societal trends, where older students often face challenges such as work commitments or family responsibilities that may impede their ability to pursue full-time education.
Interestingly, the graduate population shows a slight increase in the 22-24 age group, particularly among males, suggesting that more young adults are considering advanced degrees immediately after their undergraduate studies. However, the overall graduate demographic remains significantly smaller than the undergraduate cohort.
Another noteworthy observation is the minimal representation of students over the age of 30, which may reflect a changing landscape in higher education, where institutions cater primarily to younger, full-time students. This data echoes recent discussions in educational forums about the need to create more inclusive environments for non-traditional students, particularly as lifelong learning becomes increasingly important in today’s job market.
In conclusion, St. Thomas Aquinas College's age distribution showcases a youthful student body, while also hinting at the need for strategies to engage and support older learners 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.
97 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at St. Thomas Aquinas College
The data reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students at St. Thomas Aquinas College over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of undergraduate international students gradually increased from a mere 1.16% to a notable 4.14%. This trend reflects a growing openness to international students, potentially influenced by various factors, including globalization and the increasing recognition of the value that diversity brings to academic environments.
The undergraduate international student count peaked in 2016 with 59 students, which correlates with a substantial increase in the percentage to 3.48%. This rise may suggest enhanced recruitment efforts or improved perceptions of the college among international communities. However, the following years saw some fluctuations, with a noticeable drop in 2021, likely linked to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and education.
In contrast, the graduate student demographic shows a more modest representation of international students, with the percentage reaching its highest at 3.45% in 2023. This indicates that while the college has made strides in attracting international undergraduates, similar efforts for graduate programs may still be developing.
Overall, the increasing percentages highlight a positive trajectory for St. Thomas Aquinas College in fostering a more diverse student body. As institutions increasingly recognize the importance of global perspectives, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years, especially in light of the ongoing changes in international education landscapes.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$57,530
- Undergraduate tuition
- $39,450
- Room and board
- $18,080
- Graduate tuition
- $22,050
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 50%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$36.9M
Expenses$42.7M
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 · East Coast Conference
East Coast Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 71 | 50 |
| Baseball | 58 | - |
| Lacrosse | 38 | 19 |
| Soccer | 32 | 22 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 19 |
| Basketball | 19 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 11 | 8 |
| Field Hockey | - | 18 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| Bowling | - | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | 2 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 78 | 41 |
| Soccer | 35 | 30 |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Lacrosse | 28 | 20 |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 11 |
| Tennis | 10 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| Other Sports | - | 3 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 79 | 50 |
| Soccer | 42 | 33 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Lacrosse | 28 | 17 |
| Basketball | 13 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Tennis | 11 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 22 |
| Bowling | - | 9 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 2 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 16.1 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 16.2 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 21.0 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 21.8 mi
U.S. News #31
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 24.0 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 43.5 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Vassar CollegePoughkeepsie · 44.6 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 46.0 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Yale UniversityNew Haven · 55.7 mi
U.S. News #4
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near St. Thomas Aquinas College:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League research university located in Manhattan, New York. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty.
-
Barnard College - This prestigious women's liberal arts college ranks 11th. Barnard is affiliated with Columbia University and is known for its strong commitment to women's education and empowerment.
-
Fordham University - With a rank of 89, Fordham is a private research university located in the Bronx and Manhattan. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its Jesuit values.
-
New York University - NYU ranks 35th nationally and is one of the largest private universities in the United States. Located in Greenwich Village, it is famous for its diverse student body and strong programs in arts, business, and law.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - Ranked 76th, Stevens is a private research university located in Hoboken, New Jersey. It specializes in engineering, science, and technology, and is known for its innovation and entrepreneurship.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are a great complement to the offerings at St. Thomas Aquinas College.
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 Data at St. Thomas Aquinas College
The crime statistics from St. Thomas Aquinas College over the past decade reveal a notable downward trend in crime rates, particularly when analyzed per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate was significantly higher at 20.64 incidents per 1,000 students, but by 2023, this number had dropped to just 3.84, indicating a remarkable decline of approximately 81.4%.
Throughout these years, various categories of crime, such as gun-related arrests, drug arrests, and alcohol-related incidents, have seen fluctuations. The highest recorded rates were in 2013, with a peak in gun-related incidents. However, as the years progressed, particularly after 2017, the numbers consistently decreased. Notably, 2021 marked a significant low with only 3.60 incidents per 1,000 students, showcasing the effectiveness of safety measures and community initiatives aimed at reducing campus crime.
This trend is reflective of broader societal movements towards improving campus safety and addressing issues like substance abuse and violence, which are often prevalent in college environments. The continuous efforts from campus security and local law enforcement, in conjunction with educational programs aimed at awareness and prevention, have likely contributed to this positive outcome.
It’s essential for educational institutions to maintain this momentum and continue to foster a safe environment for students. The positive trajectory in crime rates at St. Thomas Aquinas College serves as a model for similar institutions striving for safer campuses. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further details can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of St. Thomas Aquinas College include Barbara Corcoran (Founder of the Corcoran Group and investor), Lahcen Haddad (Moroccan politician, Vice-President of House of Councillors) and James Carter (Retired Puerto Rican point guard).
-
Barbara Corcoran 1949–
Founder of the Corcoran Group and investor
-
Lahcen Haddad 1960–
Moroccan politician, Vice-President of House of Councillors
-
James Carter 1964–
Retired Puerto Rican point guard
-
Gordon M. Johnson 1949–
New Jersey state senator
-
Craig Zucker 1975–
Maryland state senator
-
TheReportOfTheWeek 1997–
YouTube personality and food critic
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.