University of Dallas
Acceptance rate
53.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$53,930
$68,940 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,444
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
67.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 72.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Dallas, established in 1956, is a private Catholic university located in Irving, Texas, just northwest of Dallas. Known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to liberal arts education, the university emphasizes a holistic approach to learning that encourages students to develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills. The university's mission is grounded in the Catholic tradition, fostering a community that values intellectual inquiry, faith, and service. The campus embodies a vibrant culture, where students engage in various extracurricular activities, including student government, clubs, and organizations that promote leadership and social responsibility.
One of the standout features of the University of Dallas is its strong faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship for students. The faculty members are highly qualified, many holding advanced degrees and having extensive experience in their fields, which enhances the quality of education. Additionally, the university is renowned for its unique Core Curriculum, which encourages students to explore a wide range of subjects, from philosophy and literature to mathematics and science. The campus also boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and a well-equipped library, which support a conducive learning environment. With a picturesque campus and a focus on the development of the whole person, the University of Dallas prepares its graduates not only for successful careers but also for meaningful lives in service to others.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at the University of Dallas
The University of Dallas has seen significant changes in several key educational metrics over recent years. One of the most notable trends is the increasing tuition costs for both undergraduate and graduate programs. In just a decade, undergraduate tuition has risen from approximately $33,110 in 2014 to $48,000 in 2023, marking an increase of nearly 45%. This trend reflects a broader national concern regarding the rising cost of higher education, which often leads to increased student debt and financial strain on families.
The graduation rates for undergraduate students have also fluctuated over the years. The on-time graduation rate saw a peak of around 66.5% in 2022, but dropped to approximately 62.3% in 2023. The 150% graduation rate, which accounts for students graduating within six years, has also varied, indicating potential challenges within academic support structures or student engagement. These shifts may impact the university's reputation and attractiveness to prospective students.
Retention rates, an essential indicator of student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness, have generally remained robust, with figures hovering around 80% to 85% from 2013 to 2022. However, there was a noticeable dip to approximately 77.3% in 2023. This decrease suggests that the university may need to assess its support systems to ensure students remain committed to completing their degrees.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has stabilized around 11 to 12 students per faculty member over the past few years, which is generally favorable compared to larger institutions. A lower ratio can enhance the quality of education and foster better student-faculty interactions, which are crucial for academic success.
In summary, while the University of Dallas demonstrates strengths in retention and student-to-faculty ratios, it faces challenges with rising tuition and fluctuating graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be critical for maintaining its educational quality and appeal in a competitive academic landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Dallas, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 8 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Jonathan J. Sanford, PhD (President)
- Phone
- 9727215000
- Address
- 1845 E Northgate Drive, Irving, TX 75062-4736
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 46.0%, women 45.0%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Enrollment at the University of Dallas
The admissions data for the University of Dallas reveals significant trends over the years that reflect broader patterns in higher education. Starting from 2009, the university had a relatively high acceptance rate for both male and female applicants, with rates above 90%. However, this trend shifted dramatically after 2015, culminating in a sharp decline in acceptance rates in the following years. By 2017, the male acceptance rate had plummeted to approximately 46%, and the female acceptance rate was not far behind at around 44%. Such declines in acceptance rates may indicate an increasing number of applicants seeking admission, possibly driven by the university's reputation or academic offerings.
The enrollment numbers also show fluctuations; while the university consistently enrolled around 350 to 400 students in the early years, the numbers surged to almost 500 by 2022 before slightly declining again in 2023. This increase may suggest that the university's appeal is growing, despite the challenges presented by a more competitive admission environment.
Furthermore, the number of denied applications rose sharply in 2016, reaching over 800 denials, which might correlate with the university's evolving admissions strategy. The growing number of deferred admissions also suggests that the university is using this approach to manage its applicant pool more effectively, allowing for a more thorough evaluation process.
Overall, the data reflects the dynamic landscape of college admissions, where institutions must continuously adapt to changing applicant behaviors and market conditions. The University of Dallas's experience is emblematic of the challenges faced by many universities today, as they strive to balance enrollment goals with maintaining academic 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
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School4 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 · 40% submitted SAT, 19% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at the University of Dallas
The data from the University of Dallas over the years reveals notable trends in standardized test submissions and scores among admitted students. Analyzing the number of SAT submissions, there has been a significant decline in participation, dropping from 280 in 2007 to just 104 in 2023. This decline in submission rates suggests that fewer students are opting to take the SAT, which may be a reflection of the broader trend of many universities moving towards test-optional admissions policies.
The score ranges for SAT Reading and Math have also shown fluctuations. For instance, the 25th percentile scores for SAT Reading started at 560 in 2007 and have fluctuated around the mid-500s throughout the years, while the 75th percentile has increased to 720 by 2023. This indicates that while the lower end of the scoring spectrum has remained relatively stable, the upper end has seen improvement, suggesting that the quality of admitted students may be increasing even as fewer students submit scores.
Interestingly, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has decreased dramatically from 89% in 2007 to only 26% in 2022 and 2023. This shift raises questions about the evolving admissions landscape and the weight that universities, including the University of Dallas, place on standardized testing. As institutions increasingly prioritize holistic admissions processes, it will be important to monitor how these changes affect the overall academic performance and diversity of the student body in the coming years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
3,664 applicants in 2025, 53.4% admitted
1,958 admitted 1,706 not admitted Yield 20.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's76 (9% international)
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance · Master's31 (13% international)
- Humanities/Humanistic Studies · Master's30 (3% international)
- Management Science · Master's12 (50% international)
- Accounting · Master's11 (9% international)
- Psychology, General · Master's10 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at University of Dallas
The graduation data from the University of Dallas for 2023 reveals several significant trends across various fields of study. Notably, the Computer and Information Systems Security program stands out with a remarkable number of graduates at the master's level, totaling 59, which highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in today's digital landscape. This surge is reflective of a broader trend where institutions focus on equipping students with skills to combat increasing cyber threats, a relevant issue highlighted in recent news regarding global cyberattacks.
In the biological sciences, there were 39 graduates at the bachelor's level, emphasizing the ongoing interest and investment in life sciences, which is crucial given the recent advancements in healthcare and biotechnology. Furthermore, the presence of international students, particularly in the master's programs, indicates the university's appeal to a diverse student body, fostering a rich academic environment.
The data also reveals an underrepresentation in the fields of education and humanities at the graduate level, with only a few graduates in educational administration and humanistic studies. This may suggest a need for universities to bolster these programs to meet the evolving educational demands and to attract prospective students.
Lastly, while the university has a robust offering in business-related disciplines, the absence of bachelor’s graduates in many programs signals a potential area for growth in undergraduate education. Overall, the findings reflect the shifting priorities in higher education and the necessity for institutions to adapt to the demands of the job market and societal needs.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,093-$94,322 | |||
| Accounting. | $78,475 | |||
| Finance and Financial Management Services, Other. | $78,640 | |||
| Management Science. | $89,232 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $34,424 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Economics, Other. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $45,803 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $33,093 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $91,374 | |||
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | $91,374 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $58,805 | |||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $58,805 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $40,129 | |||
| Pre-Theology/Pre-Ministerial Studies. | $40,129 | |||
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $29,350 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparative Literature. | - | |||
| German Language and Literature. | - | |||
| French Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Italian Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Painting. | - | |||
| Sculpture. | - | |||
| Printmaking. | - | |||
| Ceramic Arts and Ceramics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $54,511 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Financial Mathematics. | - |
Students
2,078 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 48:52 · Freshman retention 77.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 961
- First-year undergraduates 395
- Graduate students 634
- Transfers and others 88
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,444)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at the University of Dallas in 2023
The student body at the University of Dallas showcases a diverse demographic landscape in 2023. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 404, with an interesting gender distribution where males account for approximately 43.3% and females for about 56.7%. This suggests a slightly higher representation of female students in the freshman cohort, a trend that has been increasingly observed in many universities across the United States.
For the undergraduate juniors, the numbers are more substantial, with a total of 998 students. The gender ratio remains relatively consistent, with males comprising 43% and females 57%. This reflects a stable gender balance within the undergraduate population, although the predominance of female students continues.
In contrast, the undergraduate transfer students show a stark difference in gender distribution, with a high percentage of males at 81.8%. This could indicate a targeted recruitment strategy for male transfer students or a broader trend in which more males are seeking transfer opportunities.
Graduate students, numbering 875, present a more balanced demographic with 54.6% males and 45.4% females. This balance is noteworthy as it reflects a growing inclusivity in graduate programs, which can often skew male due to various factors in higher education.
Overall, the data reflects a complex yet evolving demographic profile at the University of Dallas, indicative of broader trends in higher education where gender representation continues to shift, particularly among different student classifications.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at University of Dallas
The age distribution data from the University of Dallas reveals insightful trends about the student body. Notably, the largest age group comprises students aged 18 to 19, with a total of 717 individuals, which accounts for approximately 43% of the total enrollment. This significant proportion highlights the university's appeal to traditional college-age students, likely influenced by its undergraduate programs.
In the subsequent age bracket of 20 to 21, there are 582 students, which is around 36% of the total student population. This continuation of enrollment from younger students suggests a retention rate that is encouraging for the institution. However, as we progress to older age categories, there is a noticeable decline in student numbers, particularly in the 25-29 age group, where enrollment drops to 265. This could indicate that students may be transitioning to the workforce or pursuing other life paths instead of continuing their education.
Interestingly, the university also hosts a significant number of graduate students, particularly in the 25-29 age range, where there are 144 graduate males and 106 graduate females. This suggests that the university is successfully attracting older students seeking advanced degrees, which may enhance diversity and enrich the academic environment.
Overall, while the University of Dallas enjoys a robust enrollment of younger students, the challenge remains to maintain engagement among older students and graduates. As higher education increasingly adapts to the needs of non-traditional students, universities like Dallas may need to consider flexible programs that cater to various life stages, thus fostering a more inclusive educational 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.
31 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
57 in 2025 · 20.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at the University of Dallas
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Dallas reveals notable trends over the years. The proportion of international undergraduate students has generally remained low, fluctuating between approximately 1.2% to 3.6% from 2004 to 2023. This indicates a consistent yet limited presence of international students within the undergraduate demographic, with a peak observed in 2018 at 3.59%.
In contrast, the graduate programs show a significantly higher representation of international students, particularly in the earlier years of the data. The proportion peaked at 21.05% in 2015, showcasing a strong international appeal for graduate studies. However, by 2023, this percentage has decreased to 9.71%, hinting at a potential decline in international interest or perhaps changes in the university's recruitment strategies or academic offerings.
Overall, while the University of Dallas has seen fluctuations in international enrollment, the undergraduate figures remain relatively stagnant compared to the more dynamic graduate statistics. This disparity may reflect broader trends in higher education where graduate programs often attract a more diverse international student body due to specialized programs and research opportunities.
The decline in recent years could also be influenced by global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted international travel and education. As universities worldwide adapt to these changes, it will be crucial for the University of Dallas to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring a more diverse and inclusive academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$68,940
- Undergraduate tuition
- $53,930
- Room and board
- $15,010
- Graduate tuition
- $23,400
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 51% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 33%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$74.1M
Expenses$68.1M
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 · Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 33 | 22 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 12 | 10 |
| Golf | 13 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 10 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 4 | 4 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 37 | 26 |
| Basketball | 17 | 22 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 10 | 10 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Golf | 9 | 5 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 26 |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Tennis | 13 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 8 |
| Golf | 6 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 7.9 mi
U.S. News #85
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 13.7 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 13.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 27.5 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of North TexasDenton · 28.5 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 90.5 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 157.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 159.0 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 166.0 mi
U.S. News #116
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near the University of Dallas:
-
Southern Methodist University (南卫理公会大学) - Ranked 89th in the 2024 US News rankings, SMU is a comprehensive university located in Dallas, Texas, known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts.
-
The University of Texas at Dallas (德克萨斯大学达拉斯分校) - Ranked 115th, this comprehensive university is recognized for its research initiatives and innovative programs in engineering, business, and the sciences.
-
Texas Christian University (德克萨斯基督教大学) - With a rank of 98, TCU is a comprehensive university in Fort Worth, Texas, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on student engagement.
-
Baylor University (贝勒大学) - Ranked 93rd, Baylor is a comprehensive university in Waco, Texas, known for its strong programs in law, business, and healthcare.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station (德州农工大学) - With a rank of 47, this comprehensive university is one of the largest in the U.S. and is known for its engineering, business, and agricultural programs.
These institutions not only provide a variety of educational opportunities but also contribute to the vibrant academic community surrounding the University of Dallas.
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
Crime Rates at the University of Dallas: A Decade in Review
The crime data from the University of Dallas over the past decade reveals a fluctuating landscape of safety on campus. Notably, the average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2022 at 17.26, highlighting a significant increase in reported incidents compared to previous years. This spike could raise concerns among students and faculty regarding campus safety and the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies.
In examining the types of offenses, the data indicates that armed arrests and drug-related incidents have been prevalent, mirroring national trends in college campuses where substance abuse and violence remain pressing issues. The 2020 data, which shows a crime rate of 11.77, reflects a period that coincides with the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, the years following the pandemic, particularly 2021 and 2022, suggest a resurgence in reported offenses, which could be attributed to a return to campus life and the resumption of social activities that may foster such incidents.
The University of Dallas community must take these statistics seriously and work collaboratively to enhance safety measures. This includes increasing awareness about reporting crimes, providing resources for victims, and implementing educational programs on personal safety. As crime rates fluctuate, it is crucial for universities to adapt their strategies to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all students. For a deeper understanding of crime rates, you can refer to the calculation method here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Dallas include Peter MacNicol (Actor), Katherine, Crown Princess of Serbia (Crown Princess of Yugoslavia and humanitarian) and Christopher Evan Welch (Actor known for HBO's Silicon Valley).
-
Peter MacNicol 1954–
Actor
-
Katherine, Crown Princess of Serbia 1943–
Crown Princess of Yugoslavia and humanitarian
-
Christopher Evan Welch 1965–2013
Actor known for HBO's Silicon Valley
-
Emily Jacir 1970–
Palestinian artist and filmmaker
-
David Konderla 1960–
Catholic Bishop of Tulsa
-
Michael Duca 1952–
Catholic Bishop of Baton Rouge
-
Oscar Cantú 1966–
Catholic Bishop of San José in California
-
L. Brent Bozell III 1955–
Conservative activist, founder of Media Research Center
-
Gloria Young 1967–
Nigerian actress and former journalist
More alumni (13, by field)
Politics and law
-
John C. Eastman 1960–
Legal scholar who advised Trump after 2020 election
-
John H. Gibson 1959–
Former Chief Management Officer of the Defense Department
-
Tan Parker 1971–
Texas Senate Majority Leader
-
Emmet Flood 1956–
Attorney and interim White House counsel under Trump
-
Gary Schmitt 1952–
Political scientist; American Enterprise Institute fellow
Business
-
Miriem Bensaleh-Chaqroun
Moroccan businesswoman, former head of Moroccan enterprises confederation
Science and academia
-
Eric McLuhan 1941–2018
Communication theorist, son of Marshall McLuhan
Arts and media
-
L. M. Kit Carson 1941–2014
Actor, screenwriter, director and film producer
-
Lara Grice 1971–
Actress in The Reaping and Girls Trip
-
Taylor Marshall 1978–
Traditionalist Catholic writer and YouTube commentator
-
Gene Wolande 1956–
Character actor, writer and director
Sports
-
Cecil Grigg 1891–1968
NFL running back and coach
Other fields
-
Gregory Kelly 1956–
Catholic Bishop of Tyler
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.