Saint Edward’s University
Acceptance rate
81.4%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$51,384
$65,632 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,499
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
55.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 65.1%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Edward's University, located in Austin, Texas, is a private Catholic university renowned for its commitment to providing a transformative education in a vibrant and culturally rich environment. Established in 1885, the university has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a student-centered approach, Saint Edward's University emphasizes the holistic development of its students, integrating academic rigor with experiential learning opportunities. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces that enhance the overall student experience.
The university is known for its strong sense of community and spiritual growth, guided by its mission to foster social justice and service. Saint Edward's encourages students to engage in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and clubs, creating a well-rounded campus culture. The university's location in Austin, a dynamic city known for its music, technology, and innovation, provides students with numerous internship and employment opportunities, contributing to high graduate employment rates. Additionally, the university takes pride in its diverse student body and dedicated faculty, who are committed to mentoring and supporting students throughout their academic journeys.
Tuition Trends and Student Dynamics at Saint Edward's University
Saint Edward's University, a private institution, has experienced a significant increase in tuition fees over the years. From 2014 to 2023, the tuition for in-state undergraduates rose from $33,720 to $50,766, representing a staggering increase of approximately 50.7%. This escalation in costs can be a concern for potential students and their families, particularly in the context of rising student debt across the nation. The increase in tuition for graduate students has been similarly pronounced, suggesting that financial burdens are felt across both undergraduate and graduate programs.
In parallel with the rising tuition, the enrollment numbers have witnessed a declining trend. The undergraduate student population decreased from 4,238 in 2013 to 2,769 in 2023, reflecting a drop of roughly 34.7%. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including the increasing cost of attendance, shifting demographics, or changing preferences in higher education. The retention rate for undergraduates has also shown fluctuation, with a notable drop observed in 2021, which could correlate with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student engagement and satisfaction.
Graduation rates have shown a positive trend, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which rose from 48.5% in 2013 to 55.0% in 2023. This increase may indicate improvements in academic support and student services, which could help students navigate their educational journey more effectively. However, the overall decrease in enrollment and the corresponding rise in tuition fees pose significant challenges for the university in sustaining its academic programs and maintaining a diverse student body.
The dynamics between tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates present a complex picture of the current state of higher education, highlighting the importance of balancing financial sustainability with accessibility and student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Austin
- Nearest international airport
- Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), about 6 mi
- Also known as
- St. Edward's University, St. Edward's
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Montserrat Fuentes (President)
- Phone
- 5124488400
- Address
- 3001 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704-6489
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 88.5%, women 88.1%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Saint Edward's University
The admissions data for Saint Edward's University over the years reveals significant trends that are worth noting. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have generally fluctuated, indicating changes in the university's admission policies and the competitive landscape of higher education. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rates for males and females were approximately 63.3% and 63.9%, respectively, while by 2023, these rates had decreased to around 82.3% and 86.6%. This upward trend suggests that the university has become more selective over time, which could be reflective of an increasing interest in enrollment or changes in the applicant pool.
The number of students enrolled has seen a relatively stable increase, peaking at 873 in 2016 before tapering off slightly in subsequent years. This indicates that while the university is attracting a large number of applicants, it is also becoming more discerning in its selection process. The number of students denied admission has generally risen, culminating in 896 denials in 2023, showcasing a more competitive atmosphere.
Moreover, the number of students deferring their admission has been on a rising trend, which could be influenced by various factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to uncertainties regarding college life and learning. In 2021, for instance, the deferral rate reached its highest point, which might reflect the cautious approach many students took during the pandemic.
Overall, the data from Saint Edward's University underscores the evolving dynamics of college admissions, where selectivity has increased alongside enrollment efforts, highlighting the complexities faced by prospective students in today's educational landscape.
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 · 18% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Saint Edward's University
The admissions data from Saint Edward's University over the years reveals significant trends regarding student performance on standardized tests, specifically SAT and ACT scores. A noticeable decline in the number of students submitting SAT scores is evident, dropping from 78% in 2007 to merely 21% in 2023. This decrease suggests a potential shift in applicant demographics or a broader trend in higher education where fewer students are relying on standardized tests for their admissions prospects.
Moreover, the score ranges for SAT reading and math indicate a fluctuating performance over the years. The upper quartile scores have remained relatively stable, with slight variations, indicating that while fewer students are taking these tests, the quality of those who do has remained consistent. For instance, the reading scores have ranged from 510 to 550 on the lower end and have peaked at 650 on the higher end in recent years.
The overall trend of declining submission rates for standardized tests aligns with a national movement toward test-optional policies, which many universities have adopted, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift raises questions about how universities will assess applicants' academic potential without the traditional metrics provided by standardized testing.
In conclusion, while Saint Edward's University exhibits a consistent quality of admitted students based on test scores, the drastic reduction in the percentage of students submitting these scores may signify a transformative period for the university’s admission strategies and the future of higher education assessment.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
5,830 applicants in 2025, 81.4% admitted
4,747 admitted 1,083 not admitted Yield 9.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's110 (4% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's37 (16% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's16 (0% international)
- Applied Behavior Analysis · Master's15 (0% international)
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's10 (0% international)
- Educational Administration and Supervision, Other · Doctoral9 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Saint Edward's University
The graduation data from Saint Edward's University for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various fields of study. Notably, the most prominent undergraduate program is in General Psychology, with 79 graduates, showcasing the university's strength in mental health and behavioral sciences. The presence of one international student graduating in the same program suggests a growing interest among international students in psychology, reflecting a broader trend seen in higher education where mental health awareness is becoming increasingly significant globally.
In contrast, the Master’s programs exhibit a stronger international appeal, particularly in Mental Health Counseling, which produced 71 graduates, with none being international. This may indicate a preference among local students for this field, possibly due to the increasing demand for mental health professionals in the U.S., especially post-pandemic, where mental health issues have gained more visibility.
Business Administration also stands out, with five international students earning a Master's degree, indicating its global relevance and the university's ability to attract international talent. This aligns with national trends where business degrees remain highly sought after due to their versatility in the job market.
Moreover, the absence of graduates in specific fields such as Natural Sciences and Performing Arts suggests potential areas for the university to explore for future program development. Overall, the data reflects a shifting educational landscape, emphasizing the importance of mental health and business studies, while highlighting the need for universities to adapt to emerging trends in student interest and global demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,677-$77,018 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $49,677-$77,018 | |||
| Accounting. | $57,764-$69,797 | |||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | $60,963 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $51,086 | |||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | $73,965 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $45,096 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,403 | |||
| Applied Behavior Analysis. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | $39,898 | |||
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | $39,898 | |||
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | $39,898 | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $33,378 | |||
| Acting. | $33,378 | |||
| Photography. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $43,291 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Bioinformatics. | - | |||
| Environmental Biology. | - | |||
| Neurobiology and Behavior. | $38,216 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $52,357 | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $40,091 | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $48,300 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | $75,755 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $41,754 | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $38,748 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Writing, General. | $31,227 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | $42,275 | |||
| Business Analytics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. | - | |||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Forensic Chemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | - |
Students
3,033 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 79.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,854
- First-year undergraduates 453
- Graduate students 534
- Transfers and others 192
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,499)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Saint Edward's University in 2023
In 2023, Saint Edward's University displayed a diverse student body across various classifications. The undergraduate freshmen comprised 640 students, with a notable gender distribution of 37.2% male and 62.8% female, indicating a strong female majority. The undergraduate juniors represented the largest group with 1,895 students, maintaining a similar gender ratio of 37.6% male to 62.4% female.
Undergraduate transfer students numbered 216, with a more balanced gender distribution of 44.9% male and 55.1% female, suggesting a shift towards greater parity in this category. Meanwhile, the graduate student population stood at 701, with a significantly higher female representation at 74.9% compared to only 25.1% male students.
The ethnic composition of the student body reflects broader trends in higher education, particularly with increasing diversity among underrepresented groups. For instance, the data highlights a noteworthy number of students from various backgrounds, although specific breakdowns for the overall student population were not available.
This demographic mix signals a commitment to diversity and inclusion, providing a rich learning environment. As universities strive to adapt to changing societal norms and expectations, Saint Edward's University appears to be on a promising path, suggesting a progressive approach towards gender balance and ethnic representation in higher education. The data reinforces the importance of fostering an inclusive academic atmosphere that benefits all students.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Saint Edward's University
The age composition of students at Saint Edward's University reveals a vibrant mix of youth and maturity, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The largest demographic is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a total of 1,091 individuals, which constitutes approximately 54.3% of the total student body. This highlights the university's appeal to traditional-aged college students, who typically enter higher education immediately after high school.
Following this group, students aged 20-21 also represent a significant portion, with a total of 1,056 students, accounting for about 51.9%. This suggests that a substantial number of undergraduates continue their studies within the typical two- to four-year framework.
As age increases, the numbers begin to dwindle, which is common in university settings. For instance, the 22-24 age group has a total of 546 students, which drops to 284 for those aged 25-29. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including the challenges of balancing work and family commitments, which may deter older individuals from pursuing degrees.
Interestingly, while the representation of students aged 30 and above is minimal, it demonstrates the university's inclusivity as it offers education opportunities to non-traditional students. The presence of students over 65, albeit small, emphasizes lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge regardless of age.
Overall, these statistics reflect a dynamic educational environment where younger students dominate, but there remains a commitment to support learners of all ages, aligning with national trends that recognize the importance of continuing education in an ever-evolving job market.
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.
178 in 2025 · 9.0% in 2016
17 in 2025 · 4.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Saint Edward's University
The data on international student enrollment at Saint Edward's University reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in the undergraduate sector. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates increased from 2.61% to 6.57%, highlighting a growing interest in the university among global students. This trend reflects broader national patterns where U.S. universities have seen a resurgence in international enrollment after a decline during the pandemic years.
Interestingly, despite the overall increase in international undergraduate students, graduate enrollment has not followed a similar trajectory. The percentage of international graduate students remained relatively low, peaking at 4.28% in 2004, but dropping significantly to only 2.14% in 2023. This decline might be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, competition from institutions in other countries, and shifting perceptions about studying abroad.
Furthermore, fluctuations in international enrollment can be partially explained by global events and economic conditions. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted travel and education, leading to a notable drop in both undergraduate and graduate international student numbers, particularly in 2021. However, recent years indicate a recovery, as seen in the modest increase in undergraduate international students in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Overall, while Saint Edward's University has experienced growth in its undergraduate international population, the challenges in attracting graduate international students remain evident. This situation presents an opportunity for the university to reassess its strategies to enhance its appeal to graduate students from around the world.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$65,632
- Undergraduate tuition
- $51,384
- Room and board
- $14,248
- Graduate tuition
- $29,570
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$128M
Expenses$110M
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 · Lone Star Conference
Lone Star Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 38 | 37 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 31 | 32 |
| Baseball | 62 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Other Sports | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 39 | 33 |
| Baseball | 60 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 24 | 29 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 63 | - |
| Cross Country | 25 | 22 |
| Soccer | - | 34 |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 3.8 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos · 26.1 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 28.5 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
University of Texas-San AntonioSan Antonio · 68.4 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Trinity UniversitySan Antonio · 68.6 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 88.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 98.5 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Rice UniversityHouston · 145.2 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 145.4 mi
U.S. News #202
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Saint Edward's University:
-
The University of Texas at Austin - Ranked 32nd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station - With a rank of 47, this large public university is renowned for its engineering, business, and agriculture programs, as well as its spirited student body.
-
Rice University - Ranked 17th, Rice is a prestigious private university recognized for its exceptional academic programs, particularly in the sciences and engineering.
-
Trinity University - This liberal arts college holds the 59th position and is known for its small class sizes and commitment to undergraduate education.
-
Baylor University - Ranked 93rd, Baylor is a private Christian university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on research and community service.
These institutions provide a variety of options for students in the Austin area, each with its own unique strengths and campus culture.
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 Rates at Saint Edward's University
The crime data from Saint Edward's University over the years reveals notable fluctuations in the crime rates, particularly when examining the number of arrests and incidents involving firearms, drugs, and alcohol. In 2013, the crime rate was at 10.91 per 1000 students, which is relatively low. However, a significant spike occurred in 2017, with the rate reaching 18.87 per 1000 students, indicating a concerning rise in incidents.
The data indicates that the most common crimes reported are related to substance abuse and firearm-related incidents. For instance, the number of arrests for gun-related offenses, while varying year by year, seems to contribute heavily to the overall crime rate. The increase in arrests for drugs and alcohol in the following years further exacerbated the situation, peaking in 2018. This suggests a possible trend where substance use may have escalated during certain years, potentially influenced by broader societal factors such as accessibility and campus culture.
Interestingly, there is a noticeable decline in reported crimes in 2021, dropping to an average of 10.92 per 1000 students. This could reflect improvements in campus safety measures or changes in student behavior during the pandemic. However, the subsequent increase again in 2022 and 2023 suggests that the issues are not fully resolved and warrant ongoing attention.
In light of these statistics, it is crucial for university authorities to continuously assess and adapt their safety protocols and support systems to address the underlying issues contributing to these crime rates. Creating a safer environment through education and community engagement may help mitigate these trends in the future. For further information on crime rate calculations, visit: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Saint Edward’s University include Laurentino Cortizo (38th President of Panama), Salam Fayyad (Former Palestinian prime minister and economist) and Tim Russ (Actor, played Tuvok on Star Trek: Voyager).
-
Laurentino Cortizo 1953–
38th President of Panama
-
Salam Fayyad 1952–
Former Palestinian prime minister and economist
-
Tim Russ 1956–
Actor, played Tuvok on Star Trek: Voyager
-
Jorge Quiroga 1960–
Former President of Bolivia
-
Gabriel Luna 1982–
Actor in The Last of Us and Terminator: Dark Fate
-
Silvestre Revueltas 1899–1940
Mexican composer, violinist and conductor
-
Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa 1960–
Former Foreign Minister of Bahrain
-
William Mulvey 1949–
Former Catholic bishop of Corpus Christi, Texas
-
Abdul Karim al-Kabariti 1949–
30th Prime Minister of Jordan and businessman
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.