University of Jamestown
Acceptance rate
88.1%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$24,990
$34,980 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,049
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
40.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 48.9%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Jamestown, located in Jamestown, North Dakota, is a private liberal arts university that has been serving students since its founding in 1883. Known for its strong emphasis on personalized education, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, the University of Jamestown prides itself on fostering close relationships between students and faculty, allowing for a supportive and engaging academic environment. The university's commitment to a liberal arts education ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, equipping them with critical thinking skills and a broad perspective that prepares them for various career paths.
In addition to its academic offerings, the University of Jamestown boasts a vibrant campus life enriched by various cultural and recreational activities. The campus features modern facilities, including the newly renovated Harold D. Hager Auditorium and the Jamestown Civic Center, which host numerous events throughout the year. The university is also known for its strong athletic programs, competing in the NAIA and offering a variety of sports, which foster school spirit and encourage student participation. The campus community is active and engaged, with numerous student organizations and clubs that enhance the overall college experience. The university's dedication to student success is further reflected in its strong career services, which help students transition smoothly into the workforce, with many graduates successfully finding employment in their chosen fields.
Analysis of Key Trends at University of Jamestown
The University of Jamestown has exhibited notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and retention rates over recent years, which are critical for prospective students and stakeholders to consider.
First, the tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have steadily increased, reaching $24,200 in 2023, up from $18,494 in 2014. This represents a significant rise of approximately 31%, which could pose financial challenges for many students. On the graduate level, while the in-state tuition has seen fluctuations, it is noteworthy that the out-of-state graduate tuition rose sharply from $5,100 in 2014 to $11,218 in 2023. This increase may affect the university's appeal to out-of-state students.
In terms of student success, the graduation rates have shown improvement, particularly in the timely graduation metric. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates rose from about 27.5% in 2013 to approximately 43.5% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the university's efforts to enhance student support and academic resources may be yielding positive results, providing a more conducive environment for students to complete their degrees.
Retention rates, on the other hand, have fluctuated but remained relatively stable, with a retention rate of approximately 67.5% in 2023 compared to 68.5% in 2013. While this stability is promising, it indicates a need for ongoing initiatives to engage and support students throughout their academic journey.
Overall, while increasing tuition may pose challenges, the improvements in graduation rates suggest that the University of Jamestown is making strides in enhancing the educational experience. However, maintaining high retention rates will be essential to ensure consistent student enrollment and success in the years to come.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Minneapolis, about 290 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 300 mi
- Also known as
- UJ Jimmies
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Polly Peterson (President)
- Phone
- 7012523467
- City
- Jamestown, North Dakota
- Address
- 608 6th St NE, Jamestown, ND 58405
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 65.9%, women 74.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of University of Jamestown Admission Trends
The admission data for the University of Jamestown reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate showed a general upward trend, peaking at approximately 95.2% in 2023, a dramatic increase compared to the 60.4% in 2009. This may indicate a strategic shift towards inclusivity or an increase in the number of applicants leading to a higher acceptance rate.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate experienced some volatility, starting at around 78.6% in 2009 and achieving a high of 87.8% in 2023. The data suggests that while the university has become more accommodating overall, the acceptance rate for females has not seen the same drastic increase as that of males, potentially reflecting ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity in admissions.
The total enrollment numbers have shown a varied pattern, with a notable peak in 2022 at 325 students. However, despite the increase in acceptance rates, the number of denied applications remained substantial, indicating that the university is still selective in its admissions process.
Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions has been quite high in recent years, suggesting that many applicants are being considered for future enrollment rather than outright rejection. This trend may reflect the institution's desire to maintain a robust student body while navigating the complexities of fluctuating applicant numbers. Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of higher education admissions and the University of Jamestown's adaptive strategies to meet changing demands.
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
Health Specialty1 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
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
Analysis of Admission Scores at the University of Jamestown
The data from the University of Jamestown over the years provides a compelling insight into the changing landscape of admissions criteria. The SAT scores submitted by applicants have shown a notable fluctuation, particularly in the range of scores that represent the 25th to 75th percentile. For instance, the 25th percentile reading scores have varied between 390 and 518, while the upper boundary has seen a range from 510 to 603. This variation reflects the evolving standards and possibly the changing applicant pool, highlighting an increase in competitiveness over time.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has also experienced some shifts. For example, in 2007, only 6% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, whereas this number increased to 23% by 2019. This upward trend could be indicative of a growing recognition among potential students regarding the importance of standardized testing in the admissions process.
Interestingly, the ACT scores reveal similar patterns. The composite scores have ranged from a low of 17 to a high of 23 across the years, reflecting a consistent level of academic preparedness among admitted students. The percentage of students providing ACT scores has also fluctuated but remains a crucial metric for evaluating the applicant pool.
Overall, the data suggests that the University of Jamestown is not only adapting to the changing educational landscape but also striving to maintain a balance between accessibility and academic rigor. As higher education institutions increasingly adopt a holistic approach to admissions, the reliance on standardized test scores could continue to evolve. This trend may contribute to broader discussions about equity and the role of standardized testing in measuring student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
965 applicants in 2025, 88.1% admitted
850 admitted 115 not admitted Yield 36.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Organizational Leadership · Master's26 (8% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's24 (0% international)
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at University of Jamestown in 2023
The graduation data from the University of Jamestown in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Among the health sciences, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 25 graduates at the bachelor's level, indicating a strong interest and demand for nursing professionals amid an ongoing healthcare workforce crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of international students in this program, however, suggests a need for more outreach to attract a diverse student body.
In contrast, the Physical Therapy program has produced a significant number of doctoral graduates, with 25 students completing their studies. This highlights a growing recognition of the importance of advanced practice roles within the healthcare sector, as physical therapists increasingly play a critical role in patient rehabilitation and management.
The educational field, particularly in Curriculum and Instruction, also demonstrates a commitment to advanced study, with 25 master's graduates. This aligns with the broader educational trend of focusing on improving instructional strategies and educational outcomes, which has become especially relevant in the wake of the learning disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Interestingly, there are no graduates reported in several language and literature programs, which may point to a declining interest in these fields or a shift in student priorities towards more marketable degrees in health and business sectors. Overall, the data reflects a significant emphasis on health and education, aligning with national trends towards professional programs that address pressing societal needs.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $56,996-$57,839 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $56,996-$57,839 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Banking and Financial Support Services. | - | |||
| Financial Planning and Services. | - | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Aspects of Health. | - | |||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $75,586 | |||
| Medical Informatics. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,492 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $55,102 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $46,819 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Health Teacher Education. | - | |||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | |||
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Information Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,376 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 56:44 · Freshman retention 67.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 667
- First-year undergraduates 310
- Graduate students 327
- Transfers and others 72
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,049)
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of Jamestown in 2023
The University of Jamestown presents a diverse student body in 2023, with a notable distribution of undergraduate freshmen, upperclassmen, transfer students, and graduate students. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 257 students, with a gender ratio of approximately 55.6% male and 44.4% female, indicating a relatively balanced enrollment. The upperclassmen category is significantly larger, comprising 658 students, maintaining a similar gender ratio of 55.5% male and 44.5% female.
The transfer student population is much smaller, with only 53 students; however, this group shows a higher male representation at 67.9%. In contrast, the graduate student population is more female-dominated, with 264 students, where 36.4% are male and 63.6% female. This trend reflects a growing national pattern in higher education, where female enrollment often outpaces male enrollment, particularly at the graduate level.
The ethnic breakdown indicates that White students form the majority in each category, with specific numbers suggesting a need for increased diversity. For example, among the undergraduate freshmen, 183 are White, while the number of students from other ethnic backgrounds, including Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students, is lower.
Overall, the demographic trends at the University of Jamestown mirror broader societal shifts in higher education, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities for fostering a more inclusive environment. The university's commitment to diversity will be crucial in addressing these disparities moving forward.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at University of Jamestown
The age distribution of students at the University of Jamestown reveals interesting insights into the demographic composition of the student body for 2023. A significant portion of the undergraduates is concentrated in the 18-19 age group, with 237 male and 208 female students, suggesting that the university attracts a large number of traditional college-age students. Moreover, the 20-21 age category also shows robust enrollment, indicating that many students transition directly from high school to college.
As we move to slightly older age brackets, particularly from 22 to 24, the numbers reveal a more diverse student body with a mix of undergraduate and graduate students. This could be indicative of non-traditional students or those who may have taken time off before returning to education. The presence of graduate students in this age range also points to an inclination for further education among students who may have already completed their undergraduate studies.
Interestingly, the enrollment of students aged 25 and older, though significantly lower, is noteworthy. Graduate programs are drawing in a sizable number of older students, particularly females, as seen in the 25-29 age bracket where female graduate students outnumber their male counterparts. This trend aligns with broader societal shifts where more individuals are seeking advanced degrees later in life, often balancing work and family commitments alongside their studies.
Overall, the student demographic data from the University of Jamestown reflects a vibrant educational environment that accommodates both traditional and non-traditional students, highlighting the institution's role in fostering lifelong learning and professional development.
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.
64 in 2025 · 6.0% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of Jamestown
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Jamestown over the years reveals intriguing trends and shifts. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has shown a general upward trend, particularly noticeable in recent years. For instance, the proportion of international undergraduates increased from 3.30% in 2004 to 8.49% in 2023, indicating a growing commitment to attracting diverse student populations.
However, the graduate international student enrollment presents a more complex picture. Although the total number of graduate students has increased, the percentage of international students remains relatively low. For example, in 2023, only 2.27% of graduate students were international, a decrease from previous years. This disparity may suggest that while undergraduates are increasingly drawn to the university, the graduate programs may need to enhance their appeal for international candidates.
The fluctuations in international student numbers can also be attributed to global events and policies affecting student mobility. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, had a significant impact on international education, leading to decreased enrollment numbers across many universities. As educational institutions worldwide adapt to new realities, the University of Jamestown must continue to evaluate and enhance its international recruitment strategies to maintain and grow its diverse student body.
In conclusion, while the university has made notable strides in increasing its undergraduate international enrollment, the relatively stagnant graduate enrollment figures suggest room for improvement. Fostering a more appealing environment for graduate international students could bolster the university's global standing and contribute to a richer educational experience for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$34,980
- Undergraduate tuition
- $24,990
- Room and board
- $9,990
- Graduate tuition
- $15,984
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 46%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$49.0M
Expenses$34.6M
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 · Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference
Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 168 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 90 | 61 |
| Soccer | 33 | 30 |
| Basketball | 32 | 27 |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Volleyball | 25 | 27 |
| Wrestling | 21 | 18 |
| Golf | 16 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 23 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 143 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 47 | 36 |
| Soccer | 41 | 29 |
| Baseball | 61 | - |
| Basketball | 29 | 30 |
| Volleyball | 30 | 29 |
| Wrestling | 23 | 18 |
| Golf | 17 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 15 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 129 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 55 | 29 |
| Soccer | 42 | 34 |
| Basketball | 31 | 26 |
| Baseball | 56 | - |
| Wrestling | 32 | 22 |
| Volleyball | 20 | 31 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Golf | 14 | 9 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
North Dakota State University-Main CampusFargo · 89.6 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of North DakotaGrand Forks · 103.1 mi
U.S. News #227
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 201.9 mi
U.S. News #250
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 225.4 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 229.1 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Gustavus Adolphus CollegeSaint Peter · 290.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis · 294.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Bethel UniversitySaint Paul · 295.1 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 297.6 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding the University of Jamestown:
-
University of North Dakota - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives.
-
North Dakota State University-Main Campus - This university is ranked 249 and provides diverse academic programs, with a strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - With a rank of 53, this renowned comprehensive university is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Saint John's University - A liberal arts college ranked 82, it emphasizes a holistic education grounded in the liberal arts tradition.
-
Gustavus Adolphus College - Ranked 67, this liberal arts college is dedicated to providing a personalized education experience and fostering leadership skills.
-
Carleton College - A highly prestigious liberal arts college with a rank of 9, known for its rigorous academic standards and vibrant intellectual community.
These institutions provide a rich array of educational opportunities and contribute significantly to the academic landscape in 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 Data at the University of Jamestown
The crime statistics from the University of Jamestown reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety over the past decade. The average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2019 at 30.12, which represents a significant concern for the university community. This spike in crime rates may correlate with broader national trends regarding campus safety, especially in the context of rising awareness and reporting of incidents.
Interestingly, the data shows a notable decrease in the average crime rate in 2021, dropping to 13.60, potentially reflecting the impact of improved safety measures, community engagement, or even the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have reduced on-campus activities. However, the subsequent years, particularly 2022 and 2023, indicate an increase in crime rates again, with averages of 18.18 and 19.97, respectively.
The breakdown of specific offenses provides insight into the types of incidents occurring. While arrests related to gun possession and drug offenses are crucial indicators of campus safety, the presence of violent crimes such as assault and domestic violence must also be closely monitored. These statistics serve as a reminder of the importance of continuous efforts in crime prevention and the necessity for campuses to foster a safe environment for all students.
In conclusion, while the University of Jamestown has experienced fluctuations in crime rates, the increasing trends in recent years warrant further investigation and proactive measures to enhance campus safety. For a deeper understanding of how to calculate crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Jamestown include Alvin Plantinga (Christian philosopher, Notre Dame professor emeritus), Dick Armey (Former U.S. House majority leader) and Kurt Schork (Reuters war correspondent).
-
Alvin Plantinga 1932–
Christian philosopher, Notre Dame professor emeritus
-
Dick Armey 1940–
Former U.S. House majority leader
-
Kurt Schork 1947–2000
Reuters war correspondent
-
Ralph R. Erickson 1959–
Senior judge of the US Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals
-
Raquel Pa'aluhi 1990–
Brazilian jiu-jitsu grappler and former MMA fighter
-
Jasper Schneider 1979–
Former North Dakota state representative
-
Herbert L. Meschke 1928–2017
North Dakota politician and judge
-
Ron Erhardt 1931–2012
Former New England Patriots head coach
-
Barbara McClintock 1955–
Children's book author and illustrator
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.