University of Rio Grande
Tuition per year
$20,560
$31,060 with room and board
Peer median $15,149
Undergraduates
2,037
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
17.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 21.9%
Peer median 25.4%
“Peers” are all 47 private mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Rio Grande (URG) is a distinguished institution of higher education located in the picturesque town of Rio Grande, Ohio. Established in 1876, it has a rich history and a commitment to providing quality education to its diverse student body. One of the university's defining features is its strong emphasis on experiential learning, which encourages students to engage in hands-on experiences that complement their academic studies. This approach prepares graduates for the workforce by equipping them with practical skills and real-world knowledge.
The campus offers a vibrant student life, with numerous extracurricular activities, organizations, and events that foster a sense of community and belonging. URG is known for its welcoming and inclusive environment, which supports students from various backgrounds. The university also boasts a dedicated and accomplished faculty, many of whom have significant professional experience in their fields, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship. With a focus on personal development and academic excellence, the University of Rio Grande continues to cultivate well-rounded graduates who are ready to make positive contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at University of Rio Grande
The data from the University of Rio Grande reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates. Over the years, tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduates have shown a steady increase, peaking at $27,481 in 2019 before experiencing a notable drop to $20,060 in 2022. This decline could be indicative of the university's response to changing economic conditions and the competitive landscape of higher education. The room and board fees have also fluctuated, which could impact the overall affordability of attending the university.
Student enrollment numbers have been on a downward trajectory, falling from 2,201 in 2013 to just 1,774 in 2023. This decrease raises questions about the university's appeal and recruitment strategies, especially considering the rising tuition costs. The declining enrollment may be compounded by the high student-to-faculty ratio, which has remained at 16:1 over recent years, potentially impacting the quality of education and individual attention students receive.
Graduation rates present a concerning picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates reached a low of 5.8% in 2018, before slightly recovering to 12.7% in 2023. This low rate suggests that many students are struggling to complete their degrees in a timely manner, which can have long-term implications for their career prospects and student loan burdens. Coupled with retention rates hovering around 53% in 2023, it highlights a critical area for improvement in student support and engagement initiatives.
In summary, while the University of Rio Grande has made strides in addressing tuition costs, it faces challenges with enrollment and graduation rates that could jeopardize its long-term sustainability and reputation. Focused efforts on improving student experiences and outcomes will be essential for reversing these trends.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Columbus, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Ryan Smith (President)
- Phone
- 7402457206
- City
- Rio Grande, Ohio
- Address
- 218 N College Ave, Rio Grande, OH 45674
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Physical Education Teaching and Coaching · Master's22 (32% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at the University of Rio Grande
The graduation data from the University of Rio Grande reveals several noteworthy trends across different fields of study. Notably, the health-related programs show significant numbers of graduates, particularly in Registered Nursing, which has an impressive 125 graduates. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health challenges that have underscored the importance of well-trained nurses.
On the other hand, the business administration sector, while having a respectable number of graduates, appears to be less popular among international students, with only 2 in the bachelor's program. This could reflect broader trends in international education where students may be gravitating towards more specialized fields or those perceived as having higher job security.
Education programs also show a diverse range of graduates, with multiple specializations such as Physical Education and various teacher education paths contributing to a total of 16 graduates in related areas. However, it is noteworthy that the number of graduates in certain fields, such as social sciences and arts, remains low, indicating potential areas for program development or recruitment efforts.
Moreover, the absence of graduates in several technical and engineering disciplines suggests a possible gap in student interest or market alignment. As technology continues to advance rapidly, universities may need to reevaluate their curriculum and outreach strategies to attract students into these vital fields.
Overall, this data not only illustrates the current landscape of graduate education at the University of Rio Grande but also highlights the need for continuous adaptation to meet both student interests and industry 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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary. | - | |||
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |||
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | $56,927 | |||
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | $56,927 | |||
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $56,927 | |||
| Health Services Administration. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $68,970-$81,514 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - | |||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Technology/Technician. | - | |||
| Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |||
| Welding Engineering Technology/Technician. | - | |||
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Resources/Conservation, General. | - | |||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animal Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
Students
2,258 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 56.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 838
- First-year undergraduates 405
- Graduate students 221
- Transfers and others 794
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,037)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at University of Rio Grande in 2023
The student demographic data from the University of Rio Grande in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the composition of its student body. A notable characteristic is the gender distribution among different categories of students. For undergraduate freshmen, the gender ratio is almost balanced, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female, indicating a welcoming environment for all genders. However, as we look at the undergraduate upperclassmen, the trend shifts significantly with only 36.4% of students identifying as male, while 63.6% are female, suggesting a potential retention issue or a growing preference for female students in later stages of undergraduate education.
Another striking finding appears among undergraduate transfer students, where only 21.3% are male and 78.7% are female. This disparity could reflect broader societal trends where more women are pursuing higher education or transferring from community colleges. Conversely, in graduate programs, the gender balance skews heavily toward males, with 73.1% male and only 26.9% female, which raises questions about gender dynamics in advanced studies, potentially reflecting fields of study where men are more prominently represented.
On the racial and ethnic front, the data shows a diverse student body, but specific figures were not available for all categories. The predominance of white students among the total enrollment points to the need for ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and inclusivity. This is particularly pertinent as many institutions are actively working to address disparities in representation.
Overall, the University of Rio Grande's student composition in 2023 presents both opportunities and challenges. The notable gender differences across student categories highlight areas for potential intervention and support, while the ethnic diversity suggests a continuing need for inclusive practices to foster a welcoming environment for all students.
Age Distribution of Students at University of Rio Grande in 2023
The age distribution of students at the University of Rio Grande reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body for the year 2023. The data shows a significant concentration of younger students, with the largest group being those under 18 years old, comprising 116 male undergraduates and 219 female undergraduates. This trend continues in the 18-19 age bracket, where there are 250 male undergraduates and 241 female undergraduates, indicating a healthy influx of new, young students.
As we move into the 20-21 age range, we observe a slight dip in male undergraduates, with 169, while female undergraduates slightly increase to 171. The data indicates a notable decrease in enrollment among students aged 22-24, with 84 male undergraduates and 115 female undergraduates, which may suggest that many students are either graduating or entering the workforce before pursuing further studies.
Interestingly, the age brackets of 25-29 and 30-34 show a higher number of female undergraduates compared to their male counterparts, with 120 and 89 respectively. This could reflect a broader trend of women pursuing higher education later in life or returning to school for career advancement.
The figures for older age groups, particularly those aged 50-64 and above 65, are minimal, with only a handful of students represented. This signals a predominately younger student body, which aligns with national trends in higher education, where younger demographics typically dominate enrollment figures.
Overall, the University of Rio Grande attracts a diverse range of students, with a majority falling within the traditional college-age demographic, while also providing opportunities for older students to pursue their educational goals.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 47 private mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
217 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
195 in 2025 · 6.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Rio Grande
The data concerning international student enrollment at the University of Rio Grande reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly within the undergraduate and graduate programs. In the early years, such as 2004, international students constituted a mere 0.92% of the undergraduate population. This percentage, however, started to see some growth over the years, peaking at 4.51% in 2023, indicating a positive trend towards a more diverse student body.
Interestingly, the graduate program has shown even more pronounced variability. The percentage of international students in graduate studies reached an impressive 42.31% in 2023, suggesting that the institution is becoming increasingly attractive for graduate-level international applicants. This surge can likely be attributed to various factors, including the growing global recognition of the university's programs, potential shifts in international student recruitment strategies, and possibly an increased interest in specific fields of study that the university offers.
The data also highlights a notable dip in international enrollment during the years 2020 and 2021, coinciding with the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This disruption in enrollment patterns reflects broader trends in higher education, where many institutions faced challenges in attracting international students due to travel restrictions and safety concerns.
Overall, the increasing percentages of international students, particularly in graduate programs, suggest a promising trajectory for the University of Rio Grande in cultivating a global academic environment. This trend is essential not only for enhancing cultural exchange but also for enriching the educational experience for all students on campus.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$31,060
- Undergraduate tuition
- $20,560
- Room and board
- $10,500
- Graduate tuition
- $21,420
Peer median tuition + room and board $26,585 · all 47 private mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -14% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 6%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$25.4M
Expenses$25.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 47 private mixed baccalaureate/associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Appalachian Athletic Conference · River States
Appalachian Athletic Conference: football
River States: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 38 | 16 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 29 | 17 |
| Soccer | 24 | 19 |
| Wrestling | 25 | 12 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 15 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Other Sports | 30 | - |
| Golf | 19 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 21 | 6 |
| Bowling | 12 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Archery | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 42 | 16 |
| Other Sports | 54 | - |
| Soccer | 25 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 29 | 16 |
| Volleyball | 15 | 20 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Wrestling | 31 | - |
| Golf | 21 | 8 |
| Bowling | 11 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Cross Country | 12 | 6 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 29 | 35 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 22 | 12 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 21 | 11 |
| Other Sports | 20 | 9 |
| Basketball | 13 | 14 |
| Volleyball | 13 | 14 |
| Baseball | 25 | - |
| Bowling | 9 | 14 |
| Wrestling | 21 | - |
| Golf | 12 | 4 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Ohio University-Main CampusAthens · 34.2 mi
U.S. News #202
-
Denison UniversityGranville · 82.6 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Ohio State University-Main CampusColumbus · 84.2 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Kenyon CollegeGambier · 103.1 mi
Liberal Arts #41
-
University of DaytonDayton · 112.9 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Xavier UniversityCincinnati · 114.0 mi
U.S. News #208
-
University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati · 115.9 mi
U.S. News #179
-
University of KentuckyLexington · 128.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 133.3 mi
U.S. News #133
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near the University of Rio Grande:
-
Ohio University-Main Campus - Ranked 178 in the 2024 US News rankings, Ohio University is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Denison University - A top liberal arts college with a ranking of 39, Denison University emphasizes a strong academic experience and personal development.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43, Ohio State is a large, comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Kenyon College - With a ranking of 39, Kenyon College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and picturesque campus.
-
University of Dayton - Ranked 133, the University of Dayton offers a comprehensive educational experience with a strong emphasis on community service and leadership.
-
Xavier University - This university is ranked 201 and is known for its commitment to Jesuit education and service-oriented programs.
-
Berea College - Ranked 30, Berea College is unique for its tuition-free model and commitment to providing education to students from low-income backgrounds.
-
Centre College - With a ranking of 51, Centre College is noted for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on experiential learning.
These institutions offer a range of academic opportunities and environments, making them significant choices for students in the region.
Peer median 0.0 · all 47 private mixed baccalaureate/associate's 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at the University of Rio Grande
Over the past decade, the University of Rio Grande has experienced a significant decline in crime rates per 1000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate was 9.74 incidents per 1000 students, a figure that rose to 14.09 in 2014 before steadily decreasing to just 0.22 by 2023. This downward trend is encouraging and suggests that the university may have implemented effective safety measures and programs aimed at reducing crime.
Particularly noteworthy is the sharp decline in incidents such as gun arrests, which have shown a consistent reduction over the years. For instance, the highest number of gun arrests was recorded in 2014, while recent years have seen minimal occurrences. This shift could be attributed to increased awareness and community efforts surrounding campus safety, as well as possibly improved law enforcement collaboration.
Moreover, the data reveals a complete eradication of violent crimes like murder and rape in recent years, indicating a safer environment for students. Such improvements can significantly enhance the overall university experience, attracting prospective students and ensuring that current students feel secure in their living and learning environments.
It is essential, however, to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining this positive trend. Continuous evaluation of safety protocols and community engagement is crucial to sustaining low crime rates. As we look toward the future, the University of Rio Grande must remain committed to fostering a safe and supportive atmosphere for all its students.
For further information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Rio Grande include Bernie Bickerstaff (NBA head coach and front office executive), Jeff Shaw (Former MLB relief pitcher) and Robert M. Switzer (US representative from Ohio).
-
Bernie Bickerstaff 1944–
NBA head coach and front office executive
-
Jeff Shaw 1966–
Former MLB relief pitcher
-
Robert M. Switzer 1863–1952
US representative from Ohio
-
Frank Cremeans 1943–2003
Republican U.S. representative from Ohio
-
Matthew Boyles 1982–
Race walker at the 2007 Pan American Games
-
Ben Hunter 1985–
English footballer who plays as a forward
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.