Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Mount Marty College

Yankton, South Dakota · www.mountmarty.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

42.6%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$34,600

$44,400 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,022

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

45.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 56.7%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Mount Marty University, located in Yankton, South Dakota, is a private Catholic institution that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, combining academic rigor with a strong commitment to community service and moral development. Founded in 1936, the university is named after the nearby Mount Marty, which is a significant landmark in the region. The institution prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The university’s motto, "The Truth Will Set You Free," reflects its dedication to fostering critical thinking and ethical leadership among its students.

The campus features modern facilities, including advanced classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, catering to a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. Mount Marty University offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, with particular strengths in health sciences, education, and business. The faculty comprises experienced professionals who are dedicated to mentoring students and providing personalized attention to enhance their educational experience. Outside the classroom, students can engage in various athletic programs and clubs, promoting a vibrant campus culture that encourages collaboration and personal growth. Furthermore, the university has a strong network of alumni who have made significant contributions to their fields, exemplifying the university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers.

Analysis of Key Data from Mount Marty University

Mount Marty University has demonstrated notable trends in several key areas over recent years, particularly in tuition fees, graduation rates, student retention, and gender ratios among students.

Firstly, the tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have seen a significant increase, rising from $22,892 in 2014 to $33,100 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 45%. Such a rise in tuition could influence the university's appeal to prospective students, especially as student loan debt continues to be a pressing concern across the nation.

In terms of graduation rates, the percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time has fluctuated, starting at around 34% in 2013 and peaking at 49% in 2017, before declining to approximately 43% in 2023. The 150% graduation rate has also seen variations, indicating that while some students may take longer to complete their degrees, overall outcomes are still a critical area for improvement.

Retention rates have similarly presented a mixed picture. After reaching a high of about 76% in 2021, retention dropped to around 61% in 2022, only to recover slightly to approximately 71% in 2023. This inconsistency raises questions about the university's ability to maintain student satisfaction and engagement.

Lastly, analyzing gender ratios, the proportion of male undergraduate students has hovered around 48% in recent years, with female students making up the remaining percentage. The gender balance is relatively stable, with a slight increase in male enrollment observed in 2021.

Overall, while Mount Marty University shows potential with consistent enrollment numbers and a stable gender ratio, the increasing tuition fees and fluctuating graduation and retention rates suggest that there are areas requiring focused attention and strategic planning to enhance student support and success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Omaha, about 130 mi
Nearest international airport
Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 210 mi
Yankton, South Dakota
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Dr. Mark Brown (President)
Phone
6056681545
City
Yankton, South Dakota
Address
1105 W. 8th Street, Yankton, SD 57078-3724

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
43.4%
Women
41.3%

In 2020: men 67.6%, women 75.2%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Mount Marty University

The admission data for Mount Marty University demonstrates significant fluctuations in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, the male acceptance rate started at approximately 79% in 2009, showing a gradual decline to around 63% by 2023. This trend suggests an increasingly competitive admission landscape, possibly influenced by a growing applicant pool or changing institutional priorities.
Conversely, the acceptance rate for female applicants has been more stable, albeit with a similar downward trend, starting at about 77% and dropping to 77.6% in 2023. This indicates that while the overall competitiveness has increased, the university seems to maintain a relatively steady footing in attracting female students.
The enrollment numbers also reveal a mixed picture. From 161 freshmen in 2009, the university saw a peak of 190 in 2022 before settling at 156 in 2023. This fluctuation could reflect broader demographic trends in higher education, such as declining birth rates affecting the number of college-age students.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has seen an uptick, particularly in recent years, with the denial count reaching 308 in 2022. This might indicate a more selective admissions process, potentially aligning with national trends observed in various universities that are aiming to improve their rankings and academic profiles.
Overall, Mount Marty University appears to be navigating a challenging admissions environment, reflecting broader shifts in higher education dynamics. It remains essential for institutions like Mount Marty to adapt strategies to attract and retain students while maintaining their educational standards.

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

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 0% submitted SAT, 48% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite18–25
ACT composite
18–25
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Mount Marty University

The data from Mount Marty University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in standardized test scores and applicant statistics. Notably, the SAT reading and mathematics scores displayed a marked increase from 2007 to 2008, suggesting a potential enhancement in student preparedness or changes in admission standards. For instance, the SAT reading scores surged from a starting point of 410 to 510, while the mathematics scores also demonstrated improvement during the same period.

However, there is a concerning trend regarding the percentage of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores. The proportion of students submitting these scores has generally declined, especially in recent years, with figures dropping below 10% in several instances. This decline could reflect a broader national trend towards test-optional admissions, which has gained momentum in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many institutions, including prestigious universities, have adopted more flexible admissions policies, allowing students to present a holistic view of their qualifications without the pressure of standardized testing.

Moreover, the range of scores indicates that while a quarter of admitted students perform at the lower end of the spectrum, there is a significant gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles for both SAT and ACT scores. This disparity may point to a diverse student body in terms of academic abilities. As universities continue to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education admissions, it will be essential for Mount Marty University to adapt its strategies, ensuring it attracts a well-rounded and capable student cohort while considering the implications of standardized testing's diminishing role in college admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 4 in 10

1,750 applicants in 2025, 42.6% admitted

745 admitted 1,005 not admitted Yield 22.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate60 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's15415 international (9.7%)
Master's605 international (8.3%)
Doctoral400 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
29
Business Administration and Management, General
28
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other
24
Elementary Education and Teaching
11
Social Sciences, General
9
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
9
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other
7
Secondary Education and Teaching
6
Accounting
6
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer
4

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Nurse Anesthetist · Doctoral38 (0% international)
  • Biotechnology · Master's24 (4% international)
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's12 (0% international)
  • Physical Education Teaching and Coaching · Master's7 (57% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's3 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Mount Marty University

The graduation data from Mount Marty University reveals intriguing trends across various fields of study for the year 2023. Notably, the healthcare sector, particularly in nursing, has a significant presence in the graduation figures, with notable completions in Registered Nursing and Nurse Anesthetist programs, which are crucial given the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is essential to highlight that while traditional nursing programs are thriving, advanced practice roles such as Nurse Anesthetists are also being supported, indicating a comprehensive approach to nursing education.

In the realm of business, graduation numbers in Business Administration reflect a growing interest in this area, with both domestic and international students participating. This aligns with the trend of increasing enrollment in business programs nationwide, as students seek to equip themselves with skills pertinent to a rapidly changing job market.

Additionally, the education sector shows a variety of specializations, with multiple programs in teacher education producing graduates. However, the absence of international students in many of these programs suggests a potential area for growth, especially as universities worldwide are actively recruiting international talent.

Interestingly, the data also indicates a lack of graduates in fields such as Theology, Philosophy, and Natural Sciences, which may reflect shifting priorities among students towards more career-oriented disciplines. This shift could be linked to economic factors and job market trends, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt and offer relevant programs that meet students' aspirations.

Overall, Mount Marty University is contributing significantly to the workforce, especially in healthcare and education, while also adapting to the changing landscape of higher education and employment 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

Health professionshas 106 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.-
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$69,309-$224,939
Nurse Anesthetist.$69,309-$224,939
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$69,309-$224,939
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing.$69,309-$224,939
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other.$69,309-$224,939
Businesshas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$46,762
Accounting.-
Educationhas 35 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$46,129
Secondary Education and Teaching.$46,129
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Mathematics Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
History Teacher Education.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Facilities Management, General.-
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other.-
Biologyhas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biotechnology.-
Homeland security has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Social sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.-
Psychology has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-

Students

1,284 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 67.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,022)

White
690 · 67.5%
Hispanic
79 · 7.7%
Unknown
70 · 6.8%
International
66 · 6.5%
Black
52 · 5.1%
Two or more races
29 · 2.8%
Asian
9 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
22.3%
18–19
27.0%
20–21
23.4%
22–24
16.4%
25 and over
10.9%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.4%
22–24
14.1%
25–29
28.6%
30–34
27.5%
35 and over
29.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Mount Marty University in 2023

Mount Marty University showcases a diverse student body in 2023, with a notable balance between male and female students across various classifications. The undergraduate freshman cohort consists of 156 students, with an equal gender distribution, indicating a progressive approach to inclusivity right from the onset of their academic journey. The undergraduate junior class has a slightly higher representation of males at 51.7%, while the undergraduate transfer students show a more pronounced male majority at 58.7%.

In contrast, the graduate student population reveals a significant gender disparity, with females making up 64.5% of this group. This trend aligns with national statistics that often show a higher enrollment of women in graduate programs, reflecting broader societal shifts towards female empowerment in higher education.

The data also reveals an array of ethnic backgrounds among the students, with the majority being white in all categories, followed by varying representations of other ethnicities. This indicates a need for universities to continue fostering an environment that embraces racial diversity and inclusion.

Furthermore, the overall student body numbers suggest a robust enrollment, which is essential for maintaining a vibrant academic community. As universities face challenges in attracting new students, maintaining diversity and gender balance will be key to enriching the educational experience and preparing students for a multicultural world. This commitment to inclusivity not only supports the university's mission but also enhances the learning environment for all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Mount Marty University

The age composition of students at Mount Marty University reveals insightful trends regarding the demographic structure of the student body. The data indicates a predominance of younger students, particularly those aged under 18 and in the 18-19 age bracket, who collectively account for over 50% of the total student population. This phenomenon reflects a growing trend among universities, where traditional-age students are increasingly enrolling directly after high school.

Notably, there is a marked decrease in enrollment as age increases, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups. This drop may suggest that older students are less likely to pursue higher education, potentially due to career commitments, family obligations, or financial constraints. Interestingly, the graduate programs see a slight increase in the number of older students, particularly in their late twenties to early thirties, indicating that individuals are returning to academia after gaining work experience.

The gender distribution also presents an interesting narrative, with a higher number of female students across most age categories. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating an increasing female enrollment in higher education institutions. In the younger age groups, the female student population significantly outnumbers their male counterparts, which may reflect broader societal changes encouraging women to pursue higher education.

Overall, Mount Marty University’s age composition illustrates the shifting landscape of higher education, marked by an influx of younger students and a gradual increase in older, returning students, particularly in graduate programs. This diverse age range contributes to a rich educational environment, fostering varied perspectives and experiences within the academic community.

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.

Undergraduates6.5%

66 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 1.7%2020: 2.4%2021: 4.0%2022: 3.5%2023: 3.5%2024: 3.6%2025: 6.5%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students3.1%

8 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.5%2020: 2.2%2021: 2.2%2022: 2.3%2023: 1.7%2024: 2.3%2025: 3.1%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Commentary on International Student Data at Mount Marty University

The data from Mount Marty University reveals intriguing trends regarding international student enrollment over the years. Notably, from 2004 to 2009, the number of international undergraduate students was quite minimal, with percentages hovering below 1%. This indicates that the university may not have actively pursued a diverse international student body during this period.

However, a significant shift occurred in the 2019 to 2023 timeframe. The number of international undergraduate students rose sharply from 15 in 2019 to 38 in 2023, with the percentage increasing from 1.74% to 3.52%. This upward trend may reflect the university's enhanced efforts to attract international students, possibly in response to broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of global diversity.

On the graduate level, the data shows a modest representation of international students, with a peak of 4 students in both 2020 and 2021, leading to a graduate percentage of 2.20% and 2.22%, respectively. This suggests that while the university is making strides in attracting international students at the undergraduate level, there is still room for growth in the graduate sector.

The global landscape for higher education has become increasingly competitive, and universities must adapt accordingly. Mount Marty University’s efforts in recent years indicate a positive trajectory, but continuous strategies to enhance international recruitment and support systems for these students will be crucial for future success. Overall, the increasing numbers are promising, and it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$44,400

Undergraduate tuition
$34,600
Room and board
$9,800
Graduate tuition
$16,499
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 42% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$26.7M

Tuition and fees
$13.4M50.2%
Investment return
$5.1M18.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.1M15.5%
Gifts and private grants
$3.5M13.2%
Government grants and contracts
$564K2.1%

Expenses$22.7M

Instruction
$8.7M38.4%
Student services
$7.2M32.0%
Institutional support
$3.0M13.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.0M8.7%
Academic support
$1.7M7.6%

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.

All faculty
$64,827peers $68,006
Professor
$74,420peers $78,041
Associate professor
$79,422peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$63,041peers $63,827
Instructor
$42,385peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Great Plains Athletic Conference

Great Plains Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division II MENWOMEN
Football146-
Basketball3534
Baseball59-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3326
Soccer3019
Tennis2212
Volleyball-32
Softball-27
Golf1310
Archery39
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football121-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4436
Basketball3335
Baseball63-
Soccer4020
Volleyball-34
Softball-32
Tennis168
Golf1010
Other Sports--
Archery--
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)76100
Football117-
Soccer4026
Basketball3330
Baseball62-
Softball-31
Volleyball-31
Golf88
Tennis104
Other Sports--
Archery--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Mount Marty University:

  1. University of South Dakota - Ranked 269 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide variety of programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement.

  2. Creighton University - With a rank of 124, Creighton University is a comprehensive institution that provides a rich liberal arts education and is recognized for its commitment to service and social justice.

  3. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Ranked 159, this comprehensive university is known for its research initiatives and diverse academic programs, offering students a vibrant campus life.

  4. Gustavus Adolphus College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 67, it focuses on developing critical thinking and leadership skills through a holistic educational approach.

  5. Grinnell College - Ranked 11 among liberal arts colleges, Grinnell is known for its rigorous academics, strong financial aid programs, and commitment to social responsibility.

  6. Macalester College - This college, ranked 27, is celebrated for its international focus and diverse student body, providing a comprehensive liberal arts education.

These institutions not only contribute to the rich educational landscape surrounding Mount Marty University but also provide various opportunities for collaboration and growth for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
38
Drug referrals
11
Stalking
4
Domestic violence
3
Weapons referrals
2
Dating violence
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Mount Marty University

The crime data from Mount Marty University reveals significant fluctuations in the average number of incidents per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2023. The highest recorded rate occurred in 2014, with a concerning 12.24 incidents per 1,000 students, which may reflect a period of heightened activity or a change in reporting practices. Notably, the year 2017 saw a dramatic drop to just 0.52 incidents per 1,000 students, suggesting effective measures in crime prevention or a shift in student behavior.

However, the data shows a resurgence in crime rates in 2021 and 2022, climbing back to 8.91 and 12.78 incidents per 1,000 respectively. This trend could potentially correlate with the broader societal challenges faced during and after the pandemic, where many institutions reported increased tensions and interpersonal conflicts. In particular, the rise in domestic violence and assault cases during this time has been a pressing issue across many campuses and communities nationwide.

As for the types of crimes reported, gun-related arrests have consistently been low across the years, while incidents of drug and alcohol-related arrests show some variability. This could indicate a need for ongoing education and support programs aimed at substance abuse prevention, especially as the overall crime rates fluctuate.

The university administration should continue to monitor these trends closely and consider implementing targeted interventions to address the specific types of crime that are most prevalent. Regular reviews and community engagement will be essential to enhance the safety and well-being of the campus population.

For more information on calculating crime rates, visit: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.