Franciscan University of Steubenville
Acceptance rate
58.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$34,100
$44,100 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,219
Student-faculty ratio 17:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
65.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 76.3%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Franciscan University of Steubenville, located in Steubenville, Ohio, is renowned for its strong Catholic identity and commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1946, the university emphasizes a liberal arts education grounded in the Franciscan tradition, which focuses on the belief in the inherent dignity of each individual and the importance of community. The university's motto, "Ut omnes unum sint" (That they all may be one), reflects its mission to foster unity and collaboration among students, faculty, and the broader community. The campus culture is infused with vibrant spiritual life, including regular Mass, retreats, and various faith-based activities, which encourage students to grow in their faith and engage deeply with their studies.
The university is well-equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and a comprehensive library, which support a diverse range of academic programs. It offers over 40 undergraduate majors, with notable strengths in theology, philosophy, and engineering. The faculty is composed of dedicated educators who are committed to mentoring students and fostering an engaging learning environment. In addition to academic pursuits, Franciscan University boasts a strong athletic program, with numerous sports teams competing at the NCAA Division III level. The supportive campus atmosphere is enhanced by various student organizations and activities that promote leadership, service, and community engagement, making it a vibrant place for students to grow both academically and personally.
Analysis of Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
The data from Franciscan University of Steubenville presents a significant trend in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Firstly, the tuition for undergraduate students has consistently increased from $23,160 in 2014 to $32,630 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 40.7%. This rise in tuition is reflective of a broader trend in higher education where the cost of attending college has escalated, often outpacing inflation and raising concerns about accessibility for prospective students.
Alongside the rising tuition, the enrollment figures reveal a positive trajectory. The number of undergraduate students grew from 2,097 in 2013 to 2,785 in 2023, indicating a healthy increase in interest and potentially the university's reputation. This upward trend in enrollment suggests that despite rising costs, students are still choosing to attend, perhaps due to the perceived value of the education provided.
Graduation rates also show a promising trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from approximately 56.7% in 2013 to 67.9% in 2023. This increase can be indicative of several factors, including enhanced academic support services, improved retention strategies, or a more engaged student body. Such improvements in graduation rates are crucial as they not only reflect the institution's effectiveness in educating its students but also impact future student enrollment and funding.
In conclusion, while the rising costs of tuition present challenges, the increases in student enrollment and graduation rates highlight the university's ability to provide value and support to its students. This dynamic showcases the importance of balancing affordability with educational quality in the current landscape of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 20 mi
- Also known as
- Franciscan, Steubenville
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Rev. David Pivonka, T.O.R. (President)
- Phone
- 7402833771
- City
- Steubenville, Ohio
- Address
- 1235 University Blvd, Steubenville, OH 43952-1763
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 78.9%, women 75.3%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at Franciscan University of Steubenville
The admissions data from Franciscan University of Steubenville over the years reveals significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male applicants have generally shown an upward trend, peaking at approximately 83% in 2018 before experiencing a decline in subsequent years. Conversely, the acceptance rates for female applicants have remained relatively stable, although they also peaked around the same period.
The enrollment numbers reflect a similar trajectory, with a notable increase in the number of students admitted until 2021, when the number reached 585. However, a sharp decline was observed in 2022 and 2023, correlating with a drop in acceptance rates, particularly for male applicants, which fell to around 63% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including increased competition among universities and a potential shift in student preferences post-pandemic.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has consistently been high, particularly in recent years, indicating a growing selectivity in the admissions process. The data shows that the university has had to turn away a considerable number of applicants, with denials peaking at over 800 in 2023. This selectivity suggests that Franciscan University may be positioning itself as a more competitive institution, striving for higher academic standards and a more diverse student body.
In summary, the trends in admissions and enrollment at Franciscan University of Steubenville highlight the changing landscape of higher education, influenced by both internal policies and external societal shifts. As universities adapt to the evolving dynamics of student applications, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop in the coming years.
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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 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
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 29% submitted SAT, 21% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Franciscan University of Steubenville
The admissions data for Franciscan University of Steubenville over the years presents a fascinating insight into the changing landscape of standardized test scores and applicant demographics. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated significantly, peaking in 2007 with 72% of admitted students submitting their scores, and declining to just 37% in 2023. This decrease could reflect a broader national trend of students opting to apply to colleges without standardized test scores, driven by policies from many institutions that have moved towards test-optional admissions.
When examining the SAT reading and math scores, it is evident that the 25th percentile scores have generally remained stable, while the 75th percentile scores have shown some variability over the years. For instance, the 75th percentile SAT reading score increased from 660 in 2007 to 680 in 2023, indicating a gradual rise in the caliber of students being admitted over time. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to be more competitive.
The data also unveils an interesting contrast in ACT submissions, where the proportion of applicants submitting scores has remained relatively stable compared to SAT submissions. This stability may indicate a continued reliance on ACT scores among a segment of the applicant pool, despite the broader trends affecting SAT submissions.
Overall, the trends in admissions data at Franciscan University reflect wider societal shifts in attitudes towards standardized testing, as well as the institution's commitment to maintaining a high standard of academic excellence even amidst changing application practices.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
2,968 applicants in 2025, 58.4% admitted
1,732 admitted 1,236 not admitted Yield 41.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Theology/Theological Studies · Master's91 (12% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's33 (3% international)
- Catholic Studies · Master's30 (3% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's28 (7% international)
- Religious Education · Master's27 (4% international)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other · Master's11 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Franciscan University of Steubenville
The graduation data from Franciscan University of Steubenville for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various fields of study. One standout observation is the prominence of Theology and related disciplines, particularly at the master's level, where very high numbers were reported, such as 87 graduates in Theology/Theological Studies and 36 in Religious Education. This suggests a strong institutional focus on these areas, aligning with the university's Catholic identity and mission.
In the realm of psychology, while no bachelor's degrees were awarded, notable master's degree completions, such as 27 in Counseling Psychology, indicate a growing interest and need for mental health professionals. This aligns with national trends emphasizing mental health awareness and the importance of psychological services in contemporary society.
The data also illustrates a significant commitment to nursing, as evidenced by the graduation of 40 individuals in Registered Nursing. This is particularly relevant given the ongoing global healthcare challenges, which have highlighted the critical need for healthcare professionals. The university's program appears well-positioned to contribute to the workforce in this essential field.
Interestingly, there were very few international students graduating in these programs, particularly at the bachelor level, suggesting potential barriers to international enrollment or a lack of targeted outreach to global students. As universities increasingly seek to diversify their student bodies, this could be an area for growth.
Overall, the data reflects Franciscan University’s strengths in Theology, healthcare, and psychology, while also indicating areas for potential expansion, particularly in attracting a more diverse international student population.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religious Education. | $37,587-$43,077 | |||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | |||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $33,568-$45,095 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,536-$70,776 | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | - | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $46,431 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,077 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | $41,306 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | $28,723 | |||
| Catholic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,926-$105,898 | |||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $74,926-$105,898 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - | |||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $36,623 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $32,174 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $28,698 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $37,832 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $31,259 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - |
Students
3,976 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 87.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,033
- First-year undergraduates 703
- Graduate students 757
- Transfers and others 483
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,219)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Franciscan University of Steubenville (2023)
The student demographic data at Franciscan University of Steubenville for 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of the student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 663 students, with a gender distribution showing 42.4% male and 57.6% female. This trend of a higher female enrollment continues across the undergraduate juniors, who number 1,782, with males comprising 40.9% and females 59.1%. Such ratios reflect a broader trend in higher education where female enrollment has been consistently outpacing male enrollment in recent years.
In the category of undergraduate transfer students, the gender distribution is notably more balanced, with males making up 50.6% and females 49.4% among the 160 students. This indicates a shift towards gender parity in this group, suggesting that transfer students may be more evenly split between genders, possibly due to diverse backgrounds and experiences that attract a varied student population.
The graduate student body, consisting of 871 individuals, also shows a slight female majority with 53.6% female compared to 46.4% male. This pattern is consistent with national trends where women are increasingly represented in graduate programs.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, while specific numbers for the overall student demographics are not available, the data indicate a significant representation of white students, which is common in many universities within the United States. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion will likely continue to shape its enrollment strategies moving forward.
Overall, the data from 2023 suggests a growing female presence across various student categories at Franciscan University of Steubenville, alongside a need for continued efforts towards enhancing diversity within the student population.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at Franciscan University of Steubenville
The age distribution of students at Franciscan University of Steubenville reveals interesting trends regarding the demographic composition of the student body. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, accounting for approximately 66% of all female students and about 57% of all male students. This indicates a significant presence of traditional-age college students, which aligns with national trends where universities often attract younger individuals straight out of high school.
Notably, the number of male undergraduate students under 18 is relatively small, with only 45 enrolled, compared to 95 female students in the same age category. This discrepancy may reflect broader societal trends where females are more likely to pursue higher education at younger ages.
As students age, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment numbers, particularly among those aged 25 and above. The 25-29 age group has a total of 206 students combined, which is considerably lower than the younger age ranges. This could point to the challenges faced by older students, such as balancing work and family responsibilities while pursuing further education.
Furthermore, the presence of graduate students aged 30 and above indicates that the university does attract non-traditional students seeking advanced degrees. However, this demographic remains relatively small, with the majority of graduate students still clustered in the younger categories.
Overall, the data suggests that Franciscan University of Steubenville is primarily catering to a younger demographic, which may influence the university's programs and support services geared towards traditional-aged students.
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.
53 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
82 in 2025 · 3.1% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at Franciscan University of Steubenville
The data on international students at Franciscan University of Steubenville reveals an interesting trend over nearly two decades. While the total number of undergraduate students has gradually increased from 1,844 in 2004 to 2,785 in 2023, the proportion of international students has not shown a consistent upward trajectory. The percentage of international undergraduates has fluctuated between 0.77% and 1.69%, indicating that while the university's overall enrollment is growing, the international student population remains relatively small.
In contrast, the graduate student statistics tell a more promising story. The number of international graduate students increased from 33 in 2004 to 75 in 2023, with the percentage rising from 7.55% to 8.61%. This suggests that the university may be becoming a more attractive option for international graduate students, possibly due to enhanced program offerings or improved recruitment strategies.
The fluctuations in international undergraduate enrollment might reflect broader changes in global student mobility trends, influenced by geopolitical factors, visa regulations, and the competitive landscape of higher education. The recent global pandemic has also dramatically impacted international student mobility, and as the world recovers, universities like Franciscan may need to adapt their strategies to attract a more diverse student body.
In summary, while the university has seen growth in both total enrollment and international representation, there is a clear distinction between undergraduate and graduate student trends. The increase in international graduate students is promising, suggesting an area for potential growth and development in the future.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$44,100
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,100
- Room and board
- $10,000
- Graduate tuition
- $11,088
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 20%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$117M
Expenses$89.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Other · Presidents' Athletic Conference
Presidents' Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 42 | 26 |
| Cross Country | 21 | 32 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 26 | 24 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 24 |
| Lacrosse | 27 | 13 |
| Basketball | 20 | 13 |
| Tennis | 10 | 23 |
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Swimming | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Golf | - | 12 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 49 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 27 | 31 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 30 |
| Basketball | 20 | 16 |
| Lacrosse | 19 | 15 |
| Tennis | 13 | 18 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 17 |
| Swimming | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 26 |
| Baseball | 24 | - |
| Other Sports | 24 | - |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Golf | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 41 | 32 |
| Lacrosse | 25 | 23 |
| Basketball | 24 | 20 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 24 | 19 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 25 | 16 |
| Tennis | 12 | 23 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Other Sports | 27 | - |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 10 |
| Swimming | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | - | 10 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 23.7 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 24.6 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 33.3 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 35.4 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 36.0 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 36.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 62.3 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 65.2 mi
U.S. News #236
-
College of WoosterWooster · 75.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Franciscan University of Steubenville:
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Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Carnegie Mellon is a prestigious research university located in Pittsburgh, known for its strong emphasis on technology, engineering, and the arts.
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University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - With a rank of 67, the University of Pittsburgh is a comprehensive university offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, recognized for its research initiatives and health sciences.
-
Duquesne University - Ranked 151st, Duquesne University is a private Catholic university in Pittsburgh, known for its programs in law, business, and health sciences, as well as its commitment to service and community engagement.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - This large public university, ranked 43rd, is located in Columbus, Ohio, and offers a wide variety of programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
Kent State University at Kent - Ranked 227th, Kent State University is known for its diverse academic offerings and strong focus on experiential learning.
-
Washington & Jefferson College - A liberal arts college ranked 89th, Washington & Jefferson College offers a personalized education with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and leadership skills.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities in various fields, enhancing the academic landscape surrounding Franciscan University of Steubenville.
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 Franciscan University of Steubenville
The crime statistics from Franciscan University of Steubenville over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety. The average number of incidents per 1,000 students peaked in 2019 at 17.04, a significant rise from previous years, highlighting a concerning spike in criminal activities during that period. This increase could be attributed to various factors, including changes in student population dynamics, heightened awareness of crime reporting, or external societal influences.
Interestingly, the data shows a decline in crime rates in the years following 2019, with the lowest recorded rate of 5.80 in 2022. This drop could reflect effective measures taken by the university to enhance campus safety, such as improved security protocols or community outreach programs aimed at preventing crime. Furthermore, the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to reduced campus activity, thereby influencing the crime statistics.
Specific categories, such as drug and alcohol-related arrests, often dominate the crime landscape in university settings. The university's commitment to fostering a safe environment for its students is evident; however, there remains a need for continued vigilance and proactive strategies to address these challenges. As incidents can have lasting effects on community trust and student well-being, it is crucial for the institution to engage in ongoing evaluations of safety measures and support systems.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Franciscan University of Steubenville include Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg (Princess of Luxembourg, daughter of Grand Duke Henri), Cornelius Sim (Catholic bishop and Vicar Apostolic of Brunei) and Prince Sébastien of Luxembourg (Prince of Luxembourg, son of Grand Duke Henri).
-
Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg 1991–
Princess of Luxembourg, daughter of Grand Duke Henri
-
Cornelius Sim 1951–2021
Catholic bishop and Vicar Apostolic of Brunei
-
Prince Sébastien of Luxembourg 1992–
Prince of Luxembourg, son of Grand Duke Henri
-
Jeff Fortenberry 1960–
Former US Representative from Nebraska
-
Gintaras Grušas 1961–
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Vilnius
-
Aivaras Stepukonis 1972–
Lithuanian singer, composer and philosopher
-
Stuart Long 1963–2014
Boxer and Catholic priest
-
Jonathan Morris 1972–
Fox News contributor and former Catholic priest
-
Jeff Cavins 1957–
Catholic evangelist and biblical scholar
More alumni (6, by field)
Politics and law
-
John Carlos de los Reyes 1970–
Filipino politician, president of Ang Kapatiran Party
Arts and media
-
Jason Evert 1975–
Catholic author and speaker
Sports
-
Jimmy Smith 1934–2002
Basketball player and political activist
Other fields
-
Ralph Katz 1957–
Bridge player
-
Roger Joseph Foys 1945–
Former Catholic Bishop of Covington
-
Michael Gielen 1971–
Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, New Zealand
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.