Saint Augustine’s University
Acceptance rate
33.8%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$16,896
$27,212 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
173
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
14.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 19.2%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Augustine's University (SAU), located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a historically black university known for its commitment to academic excellence, community service, and the development of leadership skills among its students. Established in 1867 by the Episcopal Church, the university holds a rich heritage that emphasizes the importance of education, particularly for African American students. The university's motto, "Enter to Learn; Go Forth to Serve," reflects its dedication to fostering a sense of responsibility and service among its students. This commitment is evident in the various programs and initiatives that encourage students to engage with the community and develop a strong sense of civic responsibility.
The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, and the arts. The faculty at SAU is composed of experienced educators who are dedicated to providing personalized attention and mentorship to students, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Additionally, the university promotes a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and cultural events that enhance the overall student experience. The university's athletic programs are particularly noteworthy, as they encourage students to engage in sports and physical fitness, fostering teamwork and school spirit. With its strong focus on academic achievement, community engagement, and personal development, Saint Augustine's University prepares its graduates to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Saint Augustine's University
Saint Augustine's University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key performance indicators over the years. One crucial area of concern is the graduation rates, which have fluctuated significantly. In 2013, the on-time graduation rate was around 13.89%, showing an alarming trend of low completion rates. By 2015, this rate improved slightly to 15.98%, and it peaked at 21.54% in 2020. However, the rates dipped again to 12.69% in 2022, followed by a slight recovery to 15.36% in 2023. This inconsistency suggests that while there may be efforts to improve student outcomes, external factors or institutional challenges could be impacting student success.
Retention rates provide further insight into the university's performance. The retention rate for undergraduate students was notably low at 45.99% in 2013, but it experienced substantial improvement by 2022, reaching 76.64% before slightly declining to 63.76% in 2023. This indicates that while the university has made strides in keeping students enrolled, sustaining this momentum will be crucial for long-term success.
The tuition data reflects a relatively stable tuition cost for undergraduate students, hovering around $17,890 from 2014 to 2019, before seeing a decrease to approximately $16,884 in 2021. This reduction in tuition could be a strategic move to attract more students, as evidenced by the increase in undergraduate enrollment in 2022, which reached 1,239 students.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio, which indicates the level of personal attention students might receive, has varied from 9 to 13 over the years. With a current ratio of around 10, this suggests that students may still benefit from a reasonable level of faculty engagement, which is vital for academic success.
Collectively, these indicators highlight the challenges and opportunities facing Saint Augustine's University as it seeks to enhance student experience and outcomes while navigating the competitive landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Raleigh
- Nearest international airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 10 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Protestant Episcopal
- President
- Dr. Verjanis Peoples (Interim President)
- Phone
- 9195164000
- City
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Address
- 1315 Oakwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27610-2298
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 72.1%, women 74.3%.
Data insights
Admission Trends at Saint Augustine's University
Saint Augustine's University has exhibited notable fluctuations in its admission statistics over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The overall acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have varied significantly, with male acceptance rates reaching as high as 95.4% in 2022, while female rates approached 77.6%. This disparity suggests an evolving demographic in the applicant pool and highlights the university's strategic focus on inclusivity and accessibility.
The enrollment numbers also paint a picture of changing interest in the institution. For instance, in 2022, the university welcomed 818 new students, a sharp increase compared to previous years like 2014, where only 327 students were enrolled. This growth could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced recruitment efforts, program diversification, and increased awareness of the university's offerings.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has shown a downward trend, indicating that the university may be broadening its criteria to accommodate a wider range of students. Interestingly, the number of deferred admissions has seen significant variation, peaking at 3,580 in 2021, which may reflect the uncertainty and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic during that period.
Overall, the evolving landscape of admissions at Saint Augustine's University reveals a commitment to adapting to the changing needs of students while maintaining a focus on diversity and inclusion in higher education. As the university continues to evolve, it will be interesting to observe how these trends develop in the coming years.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Student Admissions at Saint Augustine's University
The admission statistics from Saint Augustine's University over the years reveal noteworthy trends in standardized test performance and submission rates. Firstly, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores fluctuated significantly, peaking at 100% in 2019 and dropping to 31% in the most recent years (2021-2023). This reduction may reflect a broader trend across U.S. higher education institutions, where many are reconsidering the necessity of standardized tests in admissions, particularly following the pandemic.
In terms of test scores, the range of SAT reading and math scores for admitted students shows variability, with the lower and upper bounds indicating a competitive environment for students. For instance, the reading scores have varied from a low of 320 to a high of 395, with the math scores showing similar fluctuations. This suggests that while the university maintains a commitment to inclusivity, there remains a need for academic preparedness among applicants.
Interestingly, the consistent decline in the number of students submitting scores since 2019 raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions. As more institutions adopt test-optional policies, students may feel less pressure to submit standardized test scores, thereby impacting the overall applicant pool and the profile of admitted students.
Overall, these trends underscore the evolving nature of admissions practices and the need for universities like Saint Augustine's to adapt to changing student demographics and societal expectations regarding educational assessment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 3 in 10
2,059 applicants in 2025, 33.8% admitted
696 admitted 1,363 not admitted Yield 3.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Public Administration · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Saint Augustine's University
The graduation data from Saint Augustine's University for 2023 reveals interesting insights into the academic landscape and student demographics. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program leads with 15 graduates, emphasizing its popularity and the potential job opportunities within the business sector. This aligns with national trends where business degrees often rank among the most sought-after by students, reflecting the robust U.S. economy's demand for skilled professionals in this field.
Another noteworthy observation is the presence of international students, particularly in the Sport and Fitness Administration program, where one international student graduated. This could indicate a growing interest among international students in health and fitness careers, complementing the increasing global emphasis on wellness and fitness industries.
The absence of doctoral and master’s graduates in most disciplines suggests a strong focus on undergraduate education at this institution. However, the Public Administration program stands out with eight master’s degree graduates, highlighting a commitment to public service and governance, which is especially relevant in today's world where effective leadership is crucial.
Despite some programs showing low graduate numbers, such as the Computer and Information Sciences and Journalism programs, this may reflect broader trends in student enrollment and job market demands. As industries evolve, universities must adapt their offerings to better prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.
In summary, the graduation data from Saint Augustine's University indicates a solid foundation in business and public administration while showcasing emerging interests in health and fitness as well as the challenges faced by less popular programs. The trends suggest opportunities for growth and adaptation in response to changing market 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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,195 | ||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $49,195 | ||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dramatic/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft, Other. | - | ||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
175 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56
- Continuing undergraduates 109
- First-year undergraduates 22
- Graduate students 2
- Transfers and others 42
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (173)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Augustine's University in 2023
Saint Augustine's University presents a diverse student body for the academic year 2023, with a total of 1,058 students across various categories. The undergraduate freshmen account for 341 students, showcasing a balanced gender distribution with 52.2% male and 47.8% female students. This slight male majority reflects a broader trend in higher education, where male enrollment often slightly surpasses that of females, though the gap is narrowing over time.
The undergraduate continuing students total 512, again indicating a similar gender ratio with 51.2% male and 48.8% female. The undergraduate transfer students, while significantly smaller in number at 84, show a notable shift in gender distribution, with females constituting 53.6% of this group. This trend of more female transfer students could suggest a growing trend of women pursuing educational opportunities, potentially influenced by social changes and increased support for female education.
The graduate student population is relatively modest at 23, but it is noteworthy that 60.9% are female, which highlights a significant interest among women in pursuing graduate studies at this institution. This aligns with national trends where women increasingly outnumber men in graduate programs.
Overall, the demographic breakdown indicates a healthy mix of genders across different student categories, with women increasingly represented, especially in transfer and graduate programs. As educational institutions continue to adapt and promote inclusivity, the data from Saint Augustine's University reflects positive progress in gender representation across various education levels.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Saint Augustine's University
The age demographic data from Saint Augustine's University reveals a diverse student body, with the majority of students falling within the traditional college-age range. Notably, the largest group is composed of students aged 18-19, with 223 male undergraduates and 135 female undergraduates, indicating a strong influx of new students likely entering their first year of college. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that most college students are typically aged between 18 and 22.
As students progress through their academic careers, the numbers begin to taper off. For example, in the 20-21 age group, there are 169 male undergraduates and 141 female undergraduates, which still reflects a healthy enrollment. However, the representation of older students diminishes significantly in the subsequent age categories, with only a handful of students aged 30 and above. This trend is common across many universities, as older students often balance family and career obligations, which can limit their ability to pursue full-time education.
Interestingly, the data shows a slightly higher number of female students in most categories, particularly within the younger age groups, suggesting a growing trend of female students pursuing higher education. Despite the overall decrease in numbers as age increases, the presence of non-traditional students—those aged 25 and older—indicates that Saint Augustine's University is accommodating a variety of educational pathways, including graduate programs.
Overall, this demographic data provides valuable insights into the student population at Saint Augustine's University, highlighting not only the age distribution but also the significant presence of female students in higher education. This information can guide university policies and student support services to better meet the needs of its diverse student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 1.4% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Saint Augustine's University
The data on international student enrollment at Saint Augustine's University reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly at the undergraduate level. The percentage of international students in the undergraduate population peaked in 2005 at 6.59%, a notable figure for a historically Black university. However, subsequent years saw a decline, with international student representation dropping to as low as 1.17% in 2008.
This trend highlights a broader issue that many universities face regarding the recruitment of international students. Factors such as global economic conditions, visa policies, and competition from other institutions can significantly impact enrollment numbers. The sharp increase in international students observed in 2009, with 6.75%, suggests that Saint Augustine's University may have effectively capitalized on favorable conditions during that period, but the subsequent years did not maintain this momentum.
Moreover, the data shows a concerning trend of low international student representation in the latter years of the dataset, particularly between 2011 and 2021, where numbers dwindled to an alarming low of 1.36% in 2016 and 2.16% in 2021. This decline could reflect broader systemic issues within the university or shifts in international student preferences towards other institutions.
Given the increasing importance of a globalized education environment, Saint Augustine's University may need to reassess its strategies for attracting international students. Engaging in targeted marketing, forming partnerships with overseas institutions, and enhancing support services for international students could be potential pathways to reversing this trend and enriching the campus's cultural diversity.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$27,212
- Undergraduate tuition
- $16,896
- Room and board
- $10,316
- Graduate tuition
- $10,925
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -6% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$23.1M
Expenses$27.3M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association: football, basketball, cross country
No athlete data available for 2025.
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 96 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 21 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 21 | 18 |
| Basketball | 13 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 11 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 107 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 18 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 18 | 15 |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Softball | - | 11 |
| Golf | 5 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh · 3.0 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Duke UniversityDurham · 23.1 mi
U.S. News #8
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel Hill · 25.6 mi
U.S. News #27
-
Elon UniversityElon · 54.0 mi
U.S. News #100
-
North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro · 67.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of North Carolina at GreensboroGreensboro · 69.3 mi
U.S. News #208
-
East Carolina UniversityGreenville · 71.4 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Wake Forest UniversityWinston-Salem · 95.7 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of North Carolina--WilmingtonWilmington · 115.8 mi
U.S. News #219
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Saint Augustine's University:
-
Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke University is a prestigious research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - With a rank of 22, this university is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its research initiatives.
-
Wake Forest University - Ranked 47th, Wake Forest is a private university known for its focus on liberal arts education and its commitment to the personal development of its students.
-
University of Richmond - This university is ranked 25th and is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and beautiful campus. It emphasizes a close-knit community and experiential learning.
-
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Also known as Virginia Tech, this university is ranked 47th and is recognized for its engineering, architecture, and business programs.
These institutions not only offer high-quality education but also contribute to the vibrant academic landscape in North Carolina and Virginia.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Saint Augustine's University
The crime data from Saint Augustine's University over the past decade reveals a fluctuating trend in criminal activity on campus. In 2013, the university recorded a crime rate of 31.07 incidents per 1000 students, which gradually increased over the years, peaking significantly in 2015 with a rate of 77.76. This spike signals a concerning rise in crime during that period, potentially linked to various factors such as increased student enrollment or social dynamics within the campus community.
In subsequent years, while there was a slight decrease in crime rates, the overall trend remained high, with notable incidents like domestic violence and drug-related arrests contributing to the statistics. By 2021, the crime rate reached a troubling 77.66 per 1000 students, indicating that safety on campus remained an issue of concern. Interestingly, the data indicates a slight decline to 61.55 in 2023, suggesting some improvement.
The types of crimes reported, including domestic violence and assault, highlight the need for comprehensive safety measures and support systems for students. Universities must prioritize creating a safer environment to foster student well-being, possibly through enhanced security protocols and educational programs on violence prevention.
This data serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in campus safety and the importance of continuous assessment and intervention. For more understanding on the calculation of crime rates, you can refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Saint Augustine’s University include Anna J. Cooper (African American author, educator and activist), Antonio Pettigrew (Sprinter specializing in the 400 meters) and Ramon Gittens (Barbadian sprinter and Olympian).
-
Anna J. Cooper 1858–1964
African American author, educator and activist
-
Antonio Pettigrew 1967–2010
Sprinter specializing in the 400 meters
-
Ramon Gittens 1987–
Barbadian sprinter and Olympian
-
Charles Alston 1907–1977
Painter and sculptor of the Harlem Renaissance
-
Trevor Graham 1963–
Jamaican-born sprinter and athletics coach
-
Sarah Louise Delany 1889–1999
Educator and civil rights pioneer
-
Roxroy Cato 1988–
Jamaican 400m hurdler
-
Annie Elizabeth Delany 1891–1995
Dentist and civil rights pioneer
-
Hannah Atkins 1923–2010
First Black woman elected to Oklahoma House
More alumni (11, by field)
Politics and law
-
Ralph Campbell 1946–2011
North Carolina State Auditor from 1993 to 2005
-
Ruby B. DeMesme 1948–2020
Former Assistant Secretary of the Air Force
-
Hubert Thomas Delany 1901–1990
Lawyer, civil rights pioneer, New York Tax Commissioner
-
Millie Dunn Veasey 1918–2018
World War II Women's Army Corps veteran
-
Bernard Allen 1937–2006
North Carolina Democratic state legislator
Science and academia
-
Quintard Taylor 1948–2025
Historian and founder of BlackPast.org
Arts and media
-
Robert X. Golphin 1982–
Actor known for The Great Debaters
Sports
-
Alex Hall 1985–
Professional football defensive end
-
Ryan Hayden 1971–
Retired American hurdler
Other fields
-
Henry Beard Delany 1858–1928
First Black bishop of the Episcopal Church in the US
-
Almira Kennedy Coursey 1914–1996
Brooklyn community activist and educator
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.