Mayville State University
Acceptance rate
71.2%
2023
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$11,237
In-state $7,979
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
1,067
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
18.7%
4-year; 6-year rate 35.0%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Mayville State University (MSU), located in the picturesque town of Mayville, North Dakota, is known for its intimate class sizes and strong community atmosphere. Founded in 1889, MSU has a rich history and is dedicated to providing high-quality education to its students. The university's mission emphasizes the importance of personal development and academic excellence, aiming to foster a supportive environment that encourages student engagement and success. With a commitment to innovation and accessibility, MSU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in fields like education, business, and technology.
The campus culture at Mayville State University is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a strong sense of belonging among its diverse student body. Various student organizations and extracurricular activities facilitate personal growth and leadership development, while also creating lasting memories through events and community service initiatives. The university also boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, computer labs, and recreational centers, enhancing the overall academic experience. Additionally, MSU's emphasis on athletics fosters school spirit, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in sports, whether at the competitive level or in recreational leagues. This combination of a supportive environment, diverse academic offerings, and a strong sense of community makes Mayville State University a unique and enriching place for students to thrive.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Mayville State University
Mayville State University, a public institution, has shown significant trends in tuition fees, student retention, and graduation rates over the years. The data indicates a steady increase in tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. For instance, in 2014, the in-state tuition was $6,353, which rose to $7,873 by 2023, marking an increase of approximately 24%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition increased from $8,675 to $11,131 within the same period, reflecting a growth of around 28%. This upward trend in tuition may pose challenges for prospective students, potentially affecting enrollment rates in the future.
Retention rates have varied over the years, with a noticeable peak in 2019 at around 66.4% but declining to approximately 57.8% by 2023. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and the overall educational experience, which could be influenced by factors such as academic support, campus environment, and financial pressures due to rising tuition costs.
Graduation rates also present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate hovered around 15% to 21% in recent years, with a slight improvement to 15.5% in 2023. However, the 150% graduation rate, which reflects those graduating within six years, was reported at approximately 30.4%, suggesting that while some students do persist, many still encounter obstacles that delay their completion.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, with a slight improvement from 17:1 in 2013 to 14:1 by 2023. This stability may contribute positively to the quality of education provided, potentially aiding retention and graduation rates.
Overall, while Mayville State University shows some positive trends in student-faculty ratios, the rising tuition and fluctuating retention and graduation rates highlight areas that the administration may need to address to enhance student success and satisfaction.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, remote
- Nearest major city
- Minneapolis, about 260 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 270 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Brian Van Horn (President)
- Phone
- 7017882301
- City
- Mayville, North Dakota
- Address
- 330 Third Street NE, Mayville, ND 58257-1299
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2023
In 2020: men 72.2%, women 68.3%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Mayville State University
The admission data from Mayville State University reveals intriguing trends over the years, highlighting fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. In 2017, the acceptance rate for male applicants was approximately 47.3%, while female applicants had a higher acceptance rate of around 64.5%. This disparity continued in 2018, though both rates saw a slight decline, indicating a potential tightening of admissions standards.
A notable shift occurred in 2019, where the male acceptance rate soared to about 89.2%, while the female rate was also robust at 80%. This significant increase in acceptance rates could suggest a strategic shift in recruitment efforts or a response to a decrease in applications. The following years, particularly 2020 and 2021, reflected a more competitive climate, with acceptance rates stabilizing around the 72% mark for males and mid-58% for females.
The enrollment numbers peaked in 2022, with 181 students accepted, highlighting the university's growing appeal. However, the increase in the number of students deferred indicates a cautious approach by applicants amid ongoing uncertainties, possibly related to the global pandemic.
Overall, the data suggests that while Mayville State University is attracting a diverse applicant pool, the fluctuating acceptance rates and deferral numbers point to an evolving landscape in higher education admissions, influenced by broader societal factors. As institutions navigate these changes, understanding these trends will be crucial in shaping future recruitment strategies.
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 Data at Mayville State University
The admission data for Mayville State University reveals significant trends and shifts in standardized test submissions over the years. Notably, from 2017 onward, there has been a gradual increase in the reporting of SAT and ACT scores, signifying a potential rise in applicants' focus on these assessments. For instance, in 2017, 9% of applicants submitted SAT scores, a figure that has remained relatively consistent in subsequent years, indicating a stable interest among prospective students in standardized testing.
Additionally, the recent scores from 2020 to 2023 show an upward trend in the range of SAT reading and mathematics scores, with the 25th percentile starting at 440 and the 75th percentile reaching as high as 680. This suggests that the university is attracting a more academically competitive applicant pool, as higher scores could correlate with better preparedness for college-level coursework.
Moreover, the data also reflects broader national trends seen in higher education, where institutions are increasingly emphasizing holistic admissions processes. Many universities are moving away from strict reliance on standardized test scores, recognizing that these scores may not fully capture a student's potential or readiness for college. The consistent reporting of low percentages of students submitting scores in some years raises questions about the reliance on these metrics for evaluating applicants.
As Mayville State University continues to evolve in its admissions strategy, it may benefit from evaluating the balance between standardized tests and other critical factors such as extracurricular involvement, personal statements, and letters of recommendation, ensuring a comprehensive view of each applicant's capabilities and potential contributions to the university community.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
292 applicants in 2023, 71.2% admitted
208 admitted 84 not admitted Yield 51.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's32 (0% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's8 (0% international)
- Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Mayville State University
The graduation data from Mayville State University for 2023 reveals significant trends in fields of study, particularly in education and business. Education-related programs dominate the graduation numbers, with Elementary Education and Teaching producing the highest number of graduates at 47. This indicates a strong emphasis on preparing future educators, reflecting a broader national trend where teaching roles are increasingly in demand.
Interestingly, while the bachelor’s degree programs see a healthy number of graduates, particularly in General Studies and various Education specializations, there is a notable absence of master's and doctorate graduates in these fields for the year. This discrepancy suggests that students may prefer to enter the workforce directly after their undergraduate studies instead of pursuing further education, potentially due to the immediate job prospects in education.
In contrast, the business-related programs, although producing fewer graduates overall, do show some participation from international students, with three graduates in Business Administration (other) and two in General Business. This points to a growing interest among international students in business education, which is essential for fostering a diverse and globally-minded workforce.
Moreover, the data indicates that health-related programs, including Registered Nursing and Health Services, have fewer graduates compared to education and business, despite the high demand for healthcare professionals. This discrepancy might highlight the challenges in the nursing field, where rigorous training and examinations are required, potentially deterring some students from pursuing these paths.
Overall, Mayville State University’s graduation data reflects the current educational landscape, where fields like education remain prevalent, while business and health-related disciplines offer opportunities for growth, particularly in attracting international students.
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. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $46,249 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $46,249 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $46,249 | |||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $53,256 | |||
| Health Teacher Education. | $53,256 | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $53,256 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $53,256 | |||
| Social Science Teacher Education. | $53,256 | |||
| Biology Teacher Education. | $53,256 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,456 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $48,456 | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $78,359 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $44,090 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | |||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Care and Support Services Management. | $39,166 | |||
| Child Care Provider/Assistant. | $39,166 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
Students
1,134 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 80.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 491
- First-year undergraduates 114
- Graduate students 67
- Transfers and others 462
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,067)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Mayville State University in 2023
The student body composition at Mayville State University in 2023 reveals interesting insights into gender and racial diversity among various categories of students. Among the new undergraduate students, there are 107 individuals, with a nearly balanced gender distribution of 48.6% males and 51.4% females. This trend of gender distribution continues in the undergraduate senior category, where females constitute 60.5% of the 522 students, indicating a growing representation of women in higher education.
The transfer student demographic displays a notable gender disparity, with females making up 74.6% of the 138 students. This significant percentage may reflect broader societal trends, where more women are seeking to complete their education through transfer opportunities. Graduate students at Mayville State show an even larger female predominance at 78.3%, suggesting that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
Racially, the data reveals a predominance of white students across all categories, although specific figures for undergraduate seniors, transfer, and graduate students are not available. Nonetheless, the trend indicates that minority representation, particularly among Asian, Latinx, and African American students, remains critical for fostering a more inclusive educational environment.
Overall, these statistics paint a picture of an evolving student body at Mayville State University, where gender dynamics are shifting, and the emphasis on diversity is increasingly recognized as a vital aspect of the academic community. The university's focus on inclusive education will be essential for addressing these demographic trends in future admissions and support services.
Analysis of Age Demographics at Mayville State University for 2023
The age demographic data from Mayville State University reveals interesting trends in the composition of its student body for 2023. A significant portion of the undergraduates is concentrated in the younger age groups, particularly those under 18 and in the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 37.8% and 28.2% of the total student population, respectively. This indicates that the university attracts a considerable number of traditional-aged college students, which aligns with national trends where many students begin their post-secondary education right after high school.
As we move into the older age categories, there is a noticeable decline in the number of undergraduates, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups, where the figures drop significantly. This could suggest that older students may be opting for different educational pathways or that there are barriers preventing non-traditional students from enrolling.
Moreover, the data shows that the number of graduate students remains relatively low, with only a handful of individuals in the older age brackets pursuing graduate studies. The gender distribution also reflects a noteworthy pattern, with a higher number of female students in most age categories, particularly in the 25-29 age range where females make up 94.8% of the total students in that age group.
Overall, these statistics highlight the university's potential to build a supportive environment for younger students while also addressing the needs of older students who seek further education. As educational institutions face evolving demographics, understanding these patterns will be crucial for Mayville State University to enhance its recruitment and retention strategies.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
19 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Mayville State University
The data on international student enrollment at Mayville State University reveals some interesting trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of international undergraduate students has experienced fluctuations. For instance, in 2005, the percentage of international students reached 4.76%, a notable increase compared to previous years. However, this growth was not consistent, as the percentage dropped to 2.62% in 2021 before slightly recovering to 3.16% in 2023.
Despite the overall student population growth, the international student representation in the undergraduate program has remained below 5% for several years, indicating potential challenges in attracting international talent. The total number of undergraduate students peaked at 1,147 in 2019, yet the international student count fluctuated, suggesting that while the university is growing, it may not be effectively increasing its international appeal.
In the graduate program, the data only provides limited information, with a small number of international graduate students reported in 2017 and 2018. The graduate student enrollment remains sparse, with no recent data available. This lack of representation might be attributed to a variety of factors, including program offerings, support services, and the overall perception of the university in the global education market.
As universities worldwide continue to compete for international students, Mayville State University may need to enhance its visibility and attractiveness through improved marketing strategies, diversified program offerings, and support services that cater specifically to the needs of international students. These efforts could ultimately contribute to a more diverse and globally engaged campus community.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$20,878
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,237
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,979
- Room and board
- $9,641
- Graduate tuition
- $11,159
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 38%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$28.3M
Expenses$24.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference
Frontier Conference: football, basketball, baseball
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 120 | - |
| Basketball | 38 | 13 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 96 | - |
| Basketball | 37 | 20 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 7 | 4 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 81 | - |
| Basketball | 29 | 23 |
| Baseball | 49 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 27 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of North DakotaGrand Forks · 31.0 mi
U.S. News #227
-
North Dakota State University-Main CampusFargo · 48.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
St. John's University (MN)Collegeville · 192.5 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
College of St. BenedictSaint Joseph · 195.9 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings · 221.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Bethel UniversitySaint Paul · 260.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMinneapolis · 262.2 mi
U.S. News #59
-
University of St Thomas (MN)Saint Paul · 265.2 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Macalester CollegeSaint Paul · 266.2 mi
Liberal Arts #28
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Mayville State University:
-
University of North Dakota - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university is known for its strong programs in aviation, health sciences, and engineering.
-
North Dakota State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 249, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in agriculture and engineering.
-
Saint John's University - A liberal arts college ranked 82 in the 2024 US News, it provides a strong emphasis on community engagement and leadership.
-
College of Saint Benedict - Ranked 73, this liberal arts college focuses on women's education and offers a robust curriculum in the arts and sciences.
-
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - This prestigious comprehensive university is ranked 53 and is known for its research programs and diverse student body.
-
Macalester College - A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 27, it is known for its commitment to internationalism and social justice.
-
Carleton College - With a rank of 9, this liberal arts college is renowned for its strong academics and vibrant campus life.
These institutions offer a range of programs and unique opportunities for students in the region.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public 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
Crime Trends at Mayville State University
The crime data from Mayville State University over the past decade reveals notable fluctuations in the incidence of various offenses. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was quite high at 9.63, which indicates a relatively concerning environment for students at that time. However, a significant drop occurred in 2014, with the rate decreasing to 4.69, suggesting that efforts to improve campus safety may have been effective.
The years that followed showed an inconsistent pattern, with peaks and valleys in crime rates. For instance, 2019 saw a marked increase to 17.06 per 1,000 students, the highest recorded during this period. This spike raises questions about potential underlying issues affecting campus security, such as increased substance abuse or a rise in violent incidents.
Interestingly, the data for 2022 indicates a substantial return to higher crime rates, with an average of 12.46 per 1,000 students. This resurgence emphasizes that while some years may show improvement, sporadic increases in crime can occur, potentially influenced by broader societal issues, including those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In terms of specific offenses, the data highlights a concerning number of gun arrests and incidents of domestic violence, which are critical areas of concern for campus safety. The university must continue to prioritize strategies to address these issues and maintain a safe environment for its students. For a comprehensive understanding of crime rate calculations, refer to this link.
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.