Skip to content
Private nonprofit, 4-year

Christian Brothers University

Memphis, Tennessee · www.cbu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

86.7%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$38,420

$49,475 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,155

Student-faculty ratio 9:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

44.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 59.8%

Peer median 44.6%

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

About

Christian Brothers University (CBU), located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a private Catholic university that emphasizes a strong commitment to the Lasallian educational tradition. Founded in 1871 by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, CBU is rooted in the principles of faith, service, and academic excellence. The university's mission is to provide a transformative education that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The university's motto, "Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve," reflects its dedication to cultivating not only knowledgeable graduates but also responsible citizens who contribute positively to their communities.

CBU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, and the liberal arts. The university boasts a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and support from a dedicated faculty. This close-knit academic environment fosters collaboration and innovation among students. Additionally, the campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, a well-equipped library, and recreational areas that enhance student life. CBU is also known for its vibrant campus culture, which includes numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and community service opportunities, creating a well-rounded experience for its students. With a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and social responsibility, CBU prepares its graduates to excel in their careers while making a positive impact in society.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Christian Brothers University

Christian Brothers University, a private institution, has experienced significant fluctuations in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention.

Firstly, tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has shown a consistent upward trend, increasing from $28,210 in 2014 to $37,300 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 32% over a decade, which is indicative of the rising costs associated with higher education. Such increases can put additional financial pressure on students and their families, potentially affecting enrollment numbers and overall access to education.

In terms of graduation rates, the statistics reveal a concerning trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates dropped from 40.7% in 2013 to a low of 24.8% in 2020. Although there was a slight recovery to 37.0% in 2023, the overall trajectory highlights challenges in student success and retention. This decline suggests that many students are struggling to complete their degrees within the expected timeframe, which could be attributed to various factors, including academic preparedness, financial stress, and personal circumstances.

Retention rates also tell a compelling story. After peaking at approximately 84% in 2015, retention fell to around 67% in 2022, before rebounding slightly to 71.2% in 2023. This volatility in retention rates indicates that while some students are satisfied and continue their studies, a significant number are choosing to leave the institution, which can be detrimental to both the students' educational journeys and the university's reputation.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio, which stood at 9 in 2023, has fluctuated over the years but remains relatively low, suggesting that students may benefit from more personalized attention from faculty. However, the overall trends in tuition, graduation, and retention rates indicate that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed to improve the educational experience at Christian Brothers University. The institution must focus on strategies to enhance student support and affordability to promote better outcomes in these critical areas.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Memphis
Nearest international airport
Frederick W. Smith International Airport (MEM), about 6 mi
Memphis, Tennessee
Also known as
CBU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Brother Chris Englert (Interim President)
Phone
9013213000
City
Memphis, Tennessee
Address
650 East Parkway South, Memphis, TN 38104

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
87.4%
Women
86.0%

In 2020: men 52.6%, women 48.6%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Christian Brothers University

The admission data from Christian Brothers University reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates over the years. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 75.9%, while the female acceptance rate was about 64.9%. This trend of higher acceptance rates for males persisted until around 2014, when both rates began a noticeable decline, reaching around 50.6% and 43.7% for males and females, respectively.
Interestingly, the enrollment numbers also showed a downward trend, correlating with the increasing number of denials. For instance, the university saw a peak in denials in 2013 with over 1,100 rejections, which coincided with a significant drop in enrollment. This suggests a tightening of admission standards, possibly in response to changing academic profiles among applicants or institutional goals to enhance the quality of the student body.
The data from 2022 and 2023 indicates a remarkable turnaround, with acceptance rates soaring to 96.3% for males and 96.8% for females in 2022, followed by 90.4% and 85.4% in 2023. This dramatic increase could indicate a strategic shift by the university to attract more students, particularly in the context of challenges faced by many institutions post-pandemic. These shifts highlight the necessity for colleges to adapt to evolving educational landscapes and student needs, ultimately impacting their enrollment strategies and overall institutional viability.
Overall, the analysis underscores the dynamic nature of higher education admissions and the critical factors influencing these trends.

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

Nursing School#648▼24

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 · 5% submitted SAT, 59% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1020–1380Peer median 1158
ACT composite19–24
SAT Reading
460–700
600700800
SAT Math
560–680
600700800
ACT composite
19–24
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Christian Brothers University

The admissions data from Christian Brothers University presents intriguing insights into the trends of standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Starting from 2007, the proportion of students submitting SAT scores fluctuates significantly, peaking at 26% in 2007 and then declining to as low as 6% in 2008, before stabilizing around 19% in subsequent years. This drop in submission rates might reflect broader national trends in college admissions, where an increasing number of institutions have adopted test-optional policies, reducing the emphasis on standardized testing.

The SAT reading and math scores show a slight upward trend, with the 25th percentile score starting at 490 in 2007 and gradually increasing to 500 by 2022. In contrast, the 75th percentile scores have shown resilience, maintaining a range between 620 and 630 throughout the years, suggesting that while the overall applicant pool may have diversified, the quality of admitted students in terms of these scores has remained stable.

Moreover, ACT scores follow a similar pattern, with a consistent range in the 75th percentile, indicating that students who choose to submit these scores are performing at a competitive level. The consistent submission rates of the ACT may suggest that students feel more confident in their ACT performance compared to the SAT.

Overall, these trends indicate a broader evolution in the admissions landscape at Christian Brothers University, reflecting national shifts toward more holistic admissions practices that consider a wider scope of applicant qualities beyond standardized test scores. This shift is crucial in creating a more inclusive and diverse academic environment, particularly in light of the ongoing debates surrounding educational equity and access.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,504 applicants in 2025, 86.7% admitted

1,304 admitted 200 not admitted Yield 13.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate30 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's23118 international (7.8%)
Master's442282 international (63.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
35
Business Administration and Management, General
33
Psychology, General
14
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
14
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
13
Computer Science
12
Mechanical Engineering
12
Finance, General
11
Civil Engineering, General
9
Engineering/Industrial Management
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst · Master's240 (97% international)
  • Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's59 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's42 (26% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's41 (0% international)
  • Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's25 (72% international)
  • Data Science, General · Master's20 (85% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Christian Brothers University

The graduation data from Christian Brothers University reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study. Notably, the healthcare and education sectors show significant engagement, with Registered Nursing producing 52 bachelor's graduates, while Teacher Education saw 42 master's degree recipients. This aligns with the growing demand for qualified professionals in these critical areas, reflecting a nationwide trend of increasing enrollment in health and education programs, driven by an aging population and a focus on educational reform.

Interestingly, the Computer Systems Analysis program, while not producing any bachelor's graduates, did yield a considerable number of master's graduates (215), highlighting the advanced skill set required in the tech industry. This indicates a shift towards higher education in technical fields, likely influenced by the increasing complexity of technology and the demand for higher-level expertise in the job market.

Moreover, the Business Administration program produced 31 master's graduates, with 8 being international students. This statistic points to the university's ability to attract international talent, which is crucial for fostering diversity and enhancing the educational experience.

Overall, the absence of associate degree graduates in most programs, combined with the strong showing in master's degrees, suggests that Christian Brothers University is positioning itself as a hub for advanced education in key professional sectors. This trend could be beneficial for students, as a higher concentration of graduates in specialized fields may lead to improved job prospects and networking opportunities in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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

Computer and information sciencehas 253 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Businesshas 133 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.$54,307
Business Administration and Management, General.$47,773-$81,651
Accounting.-
Business/Corporate Communications, General.-
Finance, General.-
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Management Information Systems, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Construction Management, General.-
Educationhas 122 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education, General.$59,989
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Mathematics Teacher Education.-
Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education.-
History Teacher Education.-
Health professionshas 92 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Physician Assistant.$117,695
Art Therapy/Therapist.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$64,661
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics and Computer Science.-
Natural Sciences.-
Sustainability Studies.-
Data Science, General.-
Business Analytics.-
Engineeringhas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Engineering, General.-
Chemical Engineering.-
Civil Engineering, General.-
Computer Engineering, General.-
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
Mechanical Engineering.-
Engineering technologieshas 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Engineering/Industrial Management.$94,982
Packaging Science.$94,982
Biologyhas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biomedical Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Psychology has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$33,788
Visual and Performing artshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
English has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Creative Writing.-
Homeland security has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism.-
Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Liberal arts has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-

Students

1,772 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 74.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,155)

Black
262 · 22.7%
White
247 · 21.4%
Unknown
241 · 20.9%
Hispanic
229 · 19.8%
International
93 · 8.1%
Two or more races
57 · 4.9%
Asian
18 · 1.6%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
22.2%
18–19
24.8%
20–21
30.1%
22–24
13.6%
25 and over
9.3%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.8%
22–24
41.2%
25–29
33.7%
30–34
7.8%
35 and over
15.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Christian Brothers University (2023)

The student demographic data for Christian Brothers University in 2023 reveals a diverse and engaging academic environment. Among the undergraduate new students, there are 175 individuals, with a nearly equal gender distribution; approximately 50.9% are male and 49.1% are female. This balanced ratio indicates a welcoming atmosphere for both genders, promoting inclusivity right from the start of their collegiate journey.

For the undergraduate continuing students, the numbers swell significantly to 809. However, this group exhibits a more pronounced female presence, with 55.9% identifying as female compared to 44.1% male. This shift in gender representation could signify a growing trend among undergraduate programs, where female students are increasingly pursuing higher education.

Interestingly, the transfer student population consists of 48 individuals, with a slightly higher female representation as well (56.3% female vs. 43.8% male). This trend mirrors national statistics indicating an increase in women transferring into universities, often seeking better opportunities or more suitable academic environments.

Graduate students at the university total 681, with a substantial male majority of 59.2%. This noteworthy figure highlights the traditional tendency for graduate programs to attract more male students, especially in fields such as engineering or business.

The overall data showcases the institution's commitment to diversity and gender balance, aligning with broader educational trends that emphasize the importance of nurturing an inclusive academic community. As universities continue to adapt to societal changes, these statistics will be pivotal in shaping future policies and programs aimed at supporting all students effectively.

Analysis of Age Distribution Among Students at Christian Brothers University

The age composition of students at Christian Brothers University reveals a diverse range of ages, with a notable concentration of younger individuals. The largest group, consisting of students under 18 and those aged 18-19, showcases a strong influx of traditional college-age individuals. This aligns with national trends where institutions are seeing more high school graduates entering higher education directly.

Interestingly, the 20-21 age group also exhibits significant numbers, particularly among undergraduate females, indicating a robust presence of students who are transitioning from high school to college. However, as we move up in age brackets, the number of students significantly decreases, especially among graduate males, highlighting a trend where younger individuals are more likely to pursue undergraduate education, while older students tend to engage in graduate studies.

The presence of students aged 25-29 showcases a mix of both undergraduate and graduate students, suggesting that some individuals are returning to education later in life, possibly to advance their careers or change fields. Moreover, the declining numbers in the older age brackets (30 and above) reflect broader societal trends where older adults engage less frequently in traditional college settings.

This demographic insight is critical for university planning and resource allocation, as it underlines the need for targeted support services for younger students while also providing opportunities for non-traditional students seeking to further their education. Overall, the data underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive environment that caters to a wide range of ages and educational backgrounds 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.

Undergraduates8.1%

93 in 2025 · 6.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 6.7%2017: 4.3%2018: 2.9%2019: 3.7%2020: 3.8%2021: 3.4%2022: 4.9%2023: 3.1%2024: 6.6%2025: 8.1%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students59.5%

367 in 2025 · 20.6% in 2016

0% 35% 70% 2016: 20.6%2017: 33.0%2018: 23.8%2019: 8.4%2020: 12.3%2021: 13.5%2022: 41.2%2023: 56.5%2024: 57.3%2025: 59.5%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Christian Brothers University

The data on international students at Christian Brothers University over the years highlights significant fluctuations in enrollment trends. For undergraduate students, the proportion of international students has seen a gradual increase, peaking at 6.67% in 2016. However, this percentage has been inconsistent, dropping to as low as 1.72% in 2007 before experiencing a resurgence in recent years, reaching 4.92% in 2022.

In contrast, the graduate student segment reflects a more pronounced upward trajectory. Starting from a mere 3.46% in 2004, the percentage of international students in this category surged to an impressive 56.53% in 2023. This dramatic increase indicates a growing appeal of the graduate programs at the university, potentially driven by enhanced program offerings or targeted international recruitment strategies.

The overall trend suggests that while undergraduate international enrollment remains modest, graduate programs have become increasingly attractive to international students. This could be attributed to various factors, including the global demand for advanced education, the university's reputation, or even favorable immigration policies in the U.S.

Moreover, the recent global shifts in higher education, particularly due to the pandemic, have led many institutions to reevaluate their international recruitment strategies. Christian Brothers University appears to be adapting well, especially at the graduate level, which may bode well for its future in attracting diverse student populations. As universities continue to navigate the complexities of international education, the data here serves as a valuable insight into enrollment patterns that may shape future policies and initiatives.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$49,475

Undergraduate tuition
$38,420
Room and board
$11,055
Graduate tuition
$13,998
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 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$47.3M

Tuition and fees
$24.4M51.6%
Gifts and private grants
$12.0M25.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.1M10.9%
Investment return
$3.0M6.3%
Government grants and contracts
$984K2.1%
Other
$1.8M3.8%

Expenses$46.8M

Instruction
$17.4M37.2%
Institutional support
$13.7M29.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.6M14.1%
Student services
$4.9M10.5%
Academic support
$4.2M8.9%

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
$72,298peers $68,006
Professor
$85,460peers $78,041
Associate professor
$71,624peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$60,846peers $63,827
Instructor
$41,699peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Gulf South Conference

Gulf South Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6938
Soccer4639
Baseball42-
Basketball2020
Tennis197
Softball-25
Golf119
Volleyball-18
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6748
Soccer4726
Baseball44-
Basketball2117
Tennis169
Softball-22
Volleyball-21
Golf69
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7255
Soccer4423
Baseball43-
Basketball1715
Golf1411
Softball-24
Tennis138
Volleyball-18

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities around Christian Brothers University:

  1. Rhodes College - Ranked 56th in the 2024 US News rankings, Rhodes College is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus in Memphis, Tennessee.

  2. University of Memphis - With a rank of 269, the University of Memphis offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.

  3. Vanderbilt University - A prestigious institution ranked 18th nationally, Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, Tennessee, and is known for its strong programs in education, law, and business.

  4. University of Mississippi - Ranked 163rd, the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, is celebrated for its vibrant campus life and strong emphasis on research.

  5. Mississippi State University - With a ranking of 216, Mississippi State University offers a diverse array of programs and is recognized for its contributions to agriculture and engineering.

  6. Belmont University - Ranked 236th, Belmont University is located in Nashville and is well-known for its programs in music, business, and healthcare.

  7. Washington University in St Louis - With a rank of 24, this university is highly regarded for its research and medical programs, making it one of the top institutions in the country.

These universities not only provide excellent educational opportunities but also contribute significantly to the academic and cultural landscape of their regions.

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

Burglary
11
Motor vehicle theft
7
Liquor referrals
7
Domestic violence
3
Robbery
2
Drug referrals
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 Christian Brothers University

The crime statistics at Christian Brothers University over the years present a notable trend of decreasing offenses. In 2013, the university reported a significantly high crime rate, with an average of 14.60 incidents per 1000 students. This figure has since shown a consistent decline, reaching a low of 1.67 incidents per 1000 students in 2021. Such a decrease is encouraging and may reflect successful campus safety initiatives, community engagement, or effective law enforcement collaboration.

However, the year 2022 saw a slight uptick in crime rates to 4.57 incidents per 1000 students, followed by a rise again in 2023 with a rate of 7.45. This resurgence warrants attention, as it could indicate emerging safety concerns that need to be addressed promptly through proactive measures. The data highlights specific areas of concern, such as gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses, which, although they have fluctuated, still require ongoing vigilance.

Overall, while the long-term trend suggests improvements in campus safety, the recent increases signal the need for continuous assessment and reinforcement of safety protocols. Universities must prioritize creating a secure environment for students to enhance their educational experience and foster a sense of community. Continuous monitoring and evolving strategies will be vital to maintain and improve upon the progress made over the past decade. For more details on calculating crime rates, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Christian Brothers University include Malcolm R. Patterson (30th Governor of Tennessee), Charles Bartliff (Soccer player at the 1904 Olympics) and Robert B. Hawley (Former U.S. representative from Texas).

More alumni (3, by field)

Politics and law

Sports

  • Norb Sacksteder 1895–1986

    Early NFL player on 1922 champion Canton Bulldogs

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.