St. Mary’s University
Acceptance rate
97.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$37,434
$50,328 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,149
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
3.1%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.0%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
St. Mary's University, located in San Antonio, Texas, is a distinguished institution known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and community service. Founded in 1852, it is one of the oldest universities in Texas and has a rich heritage rooted in the Catholic faith. The university's mission emphasizes the development of the whole person and the promotion of social justice, which is reflected in its diverse programs and initiatives. St. Mary's University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, law, engineering, and the liberal arts, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education tailored to their interests and career goals.
The campus is not only equipped with modern facilities that support learning and research but also fosters a vibrant student life. With numerous student organizations and extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to engage with their peers and develop leadership skills. The university places a strong emphasis on athletics, with a variety of sports programs that promote teamwork and physical fitness. St. Mary's University has a dedicated faculty who are not only experts in their fields but also deeply invested in the success of their students. This supportive environment helps graduates to excel in their careers, with many finding successful employment in various industries shortly after graduation. Overall, St. Mary’s University combines a rich tradition with contemporary educational practices, making it a prominent choice for students seeking a comprehensive and fulfilling academic experience.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at St. Mary's University
St. Mary's University, a private institution, has witnessed significant changes in key metrics over the years. One of the most striking trends is the continuous increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students rose from approximately $25,126 to over $36,242, representing a staggering increase of nearly 44%. This constant rise in tuition places a considerable financial burden on students and their families, often leading to increased student loan debt, a critical issue in the current educational landscape.
In addition to rising tuition, enrollment figures show a declining trend. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 2,459 in 2013 to just 2,001 in 2023. This decline in enrollment may reflect the growing concern regarding affordability and the overall value of a college education in today’s economy. As potential students weigh their options, the increasing cost of education may deter many from pursuing higher education, especially at private institutions.
Moreover, graduation rates have shown some fluctuation, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 34% to 47% over the years. A slight increase in recent years suggests some improvement, but it remains below the desired threshold, indicating that many students are still struggling to complete their degrees in the traditional timeframe. This ties back to the retention rate, which has also seen a decline, falling from about 77% in 2013 to around 68% in 2023.
The combination of rising tuition, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation and retention rates highlights the challenges that St. Mary's University faces. These trends are indicative of broader issues affecting higher education, including affordability, student satisfaction, and institutional support. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the university to maintain its competitiveness and ensure that it continues to provide value to its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In San Antonio
- Nearest international airport
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT), about 8 mi
- Also known as
- St. Mary's
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Winston Erevelles (President)
- Phone
- 2104363011
- City
- San Antonio, Texas
- Address
- One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, TX 78228
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 79.7%, women 78.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of St. Mary's University Admission Trends
The admission statistics for St. Mary's University reveal notable trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. In 2009, the admission rates for male and female applicants were around 62.57% and 63.70%, respectively. However, a significant drop in acceptance rates can be observed in the subsequent years, with the male acceptance rate falling to 55.47% in 2013 before slightly recovering to 82.06% in 2023. Female acceptance rates followed a similar pattern, reaching a low of 54.49% in 2013, then peaking at 88.62% in 2023.
Interestingly, the number of enrolled students fluctuated over these years, with a peak enrollment of 641 students in 2012. However, the overall trend shows a general decline in the number of students enrolled until 2017, after which numbers began to stabilize and even rise again in the following years.
The data also indicates a substantial increase in the number of denied applications, from 877 in 2009 to a staggering 740 in 2023. This rise in denial rates could be attributed to a growing applicant pool, which reflects the increasing popularity and competitiveness of the institution.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has also seen a significant increase, suggesting that many students are opting to delay their enrollment for various reasons, possibly indicating a shift in how prospective students view the timing of their college education.
Overall, St. Mary's University appears to be adapting to the changing landscape of higher education, with fluctuating acceptance rates and enrollment figures reflecting broader trends in college admissions across the United States.
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
Law School12 programs#150▼2
- Trial Advocacy#12▲4
- Dispute Resolution#18▲17
- Clinical Training#75▼15
- Business/Corporate Law#116▲11
- Contracts Law#131▼25
- Health Care Law#134▲23
- International Law#140▼31
- Environmental Law#148▲8
- Criminal Law#155
- Constitutional Law#156▲5
- Tax Law#158▼24
- Intellectual Property Law#166▼6
- Full Law School ranking ›
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 · 41% submitted SAT, 11% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at St. Mary's University
St. Mary's University has shown a notable evolution in the admission test scores over the years from 2007 to 2023. The data indicates a consistent submission rate of SAT scores, with peak participation reaching 92% in 2008. This suggests a growing confidence in standardized testing among applicants, possibly reflecting the institution's increasing reputation and attractiveness.
The SAT reading and math scores also reveal a positive trend, particularly in the upper quartile scores. For instance, in recent years, the 75th percentile SAT scores have remained steady between 620 and 630, signifying that the caliber of admitted students has been relatively high. This stability in top scores could be indicative of the university's commitment to maintaining rigorous academic standards.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores has remained consistently significant, with a notable figure of 82% in the most recent years. This highlights a diverse range of candidates who are not solely relying on SAT scores, showcasing the university's inclusivity in evaluating potential students.
In terms of specific scores, the 25th percentile for both SAT reading and math has shown some fluctuation but has generally remained within a competitive range, indicating that while the university attracts high-achieving students, it also maintains accessibility for a broader applicant pool.
Overall, the data from St. Mary's University reflects a dynamic and competitive admissions landscape, characterized by a diverse applicant pool and a commitment to academic excellence, which is crucial for prospective students and stakeholders in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
4,724 applicants in 2025, 97.8% admitted
4,618 admitted 106 not admitted Yield 12.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Law · Doctoral208 (0% international)
- American/U.S. Law/Legal Studies/Jurisprudence · Master's51 (18% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's34 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's19 (0% international)
- International Relations and Affairs · Master's14 (14% international)
- English Language and Literature, General · Master's8 (25% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at St. Mary's University
The graduation data from St. Mary's University reveals several intriguing trends across various disciplines. Notably, the law and business administration fields dominate in terms of graduate numbers, particularly at the master's level. For instance, there were 26 graduates in American/U.S. Law and 46 in general Business Administration at the master's level, indicating a strong demand for advanced legal and business education. This trend aligns with the growing job market for legal professionals and business leaders, reflecting broader economic conditions.
Moreover, the data highlights a significant number of graduates in psychology and sociology, with both fields producing 32 graduates at the bachelor's level. This suggests an increasing interest in mental health and social sciences, which could be attributed to the heightened awareness of mental health issues in contemporary society. This trend is further enhanced by the recent global focus on mental well-being, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interestingly, the number of international students graduating is relatively low in comparison to domestic graduates, particularly in master's programs, which may suggest barriers for international students in the graduate education system. For example, only four international students graduated with a master's in Business Administration, highlighting the potential need for universities to enhance support systems for international scholars.
The data also shows a notable absence of graduates in fields such as engineering and computer science at the bachelor's level, which may reflect a gap in interest or capacity in these high-demand areas. In contrast, the presence of graduates in less conventional fields like bioinformatics and international relations indicates a diversification of educational pursuits.
Overall, St. Mary's University is producing a diverse array of graduates, with particular strengths in law, business, psychology, and sociology, while also revealing areas that may require further development to meet the evolving educational and professional 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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law. | $59,674-$72,309 | |||
| American/U.S. Law/Legal Studies/Jurisprudence. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $43,463-$70,714 | |||
| Accounting. | $67,306 | |||
| Finance, General. | $63,639 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $49,700 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $38,730 | |||
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $38,871 | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $41,170 | |||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | $36,496 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,767 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Bioinformatics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $31,796 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering, General. | $66,668 | |||
| Computer Software Engineering. | $66,668 | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | |||
| Engineering Science. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - | |||
| Systems Engineering. | - | |||
| Industrial Engineering. | - | |||
| Electrical and Computer Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $29,806 | |||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $49,315 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $49,519 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - | |||
| Public/Applied History. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Art Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | $60,068 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
3,456 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 73.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,266
- First-year undergraduates 580
- Graduate students 1,307
- Transfers and others 303
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,149)
Data insights
Student Demographics at St. Mary's University in 2023
The student demographics at St. Mary's University in 2023 reflect a diverse academic community, showcasing a balance between male and female students across various classifications. Among the undergraduate freshmen, 36.9% are male, while 63.1% are female, indicating a significant representation of women in this group. This trend continues with undergraduate upperclassmen, where the male population stands at 40.5% and females at 59.5%.
Interestingly, the transfer students show a slightly higher percentage of males at 43.2%, yet females still make up the majority at 56.8%. Graduate students present an even more balanced ratio with 44.3% males and 55.7% females, suggesting that the university is fostering an environment conducive to both genders pursuing higher education.
The racial and ethnic composition, although not fully detailed in the data, hints at a variety of backgrounds among the student body. The presence of international students, alongside other ethnic groups, enriches the university's cultural landscape.
Overall, these statistics reflect a growing trend in higher education where female enrollment is increasingly outpacing male enrollment, particularly in undergraduate programs. As universities strive for inclusivity and diversity, St. Mary's University appears to be on the right path, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students from all walks of life. This demographic information is crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of higher education and the need for institutions to adapt to the changing needs of their student populations.
Analysis of Age Distribution at St. Mary's University in 2023
The age composition of students at St. Mary's University in 2023 presents a diverse and vibrant academic community. Notably, the largest demographic is within the 18-19 age range, comprising 34.5% of total male students and 57.7% of total female students. This indicates a strong influx of first-year students, likely influenced by recent trends in higher education that emphasize the importance of early college entry.
As we examine the 20-21 age group, we see a slight decline in the percentage of students, yet this group remains substantial, accounting for approximately 25.7% of total male and 32.3% of total female students. This trend may reflect the typical progression of students through undergraduate studies.
Interestingly, there is a noticeable increase in graduate students aged 22-24, representing 67.5% of total male graduate students and 60.3% of total female graduate students. This may be attributed to the growing recognition of the value of advanced degrees in today's competitive job market, as more individuals pursue graduate studies immediately after completing their undergraduate education.
The data also reveals a significant presence of students aged 25 and older, particularly among graduate students, with a marked concentration in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets. This suggests that St. Mary's University attracts a considerable number of non-traditional students who are returning to education for professional advancement or career changes.
Overall, the age distribution at St. Mary's University reflects a healthy mix of traditional and non-traditional students, fostering an enriched learning environment that benefits from diverse perspectives and experiences.
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.
151 in 2025 · 7.5% in 2016
43 in 2025 · 10.6% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at St. Mary's University
The data on international students at St. Mary's University reveals intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has shown fluctuations, with a notable increase in the percentage from 4.14% to 7.15% in 2023. This gradual rise indicates a growing appeal of the university among global students, potentially driven by its academic programs and campus environment.
However, the number of international graduate students appears to have experienced a decline, particularly in recent years. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at 15.24% in 2013 but fell to 3.35% by 2023. This significant drop raises concerns about the university's ability to attract graduate students amid increasing competition from other institutions. The fluctuating numbers could reflect broader trends in higher education, such as changes in visa policies, economic conditions, and the global pandemic's impact on international travel and education.
The overall decline in total student enrollment from 2004's 2582 to 2001 in 2023 suggests that the university may need to reassess its recruitment strategies and enhance support services for international students. As many universities strive to improve their diversity and global footprint, St. Mary's may benefit from targeted marketing efforts and partnerships with international institutions.
In conclusion, while the university has seen a slight increase in international undergraduate students, the drop in graduate enrollment highlights the need for strategic initiatives to maintain and grow its international student body in an increasingly competitive global educational landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$50,328
- Undergraduate tuition
- $37,434
- Room and board
- $12,894
- Graduate tuition
- $21,726
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$146M
Expenses$112M
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
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 31 | 26 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Other Sports | - | 30 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 9 | 8 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 34 | 31 |
| Baseball | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 15 |
| Other Sports | - | 33 |
| Tennis | 13 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 8 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 34 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 14 |
| Tennis | 15 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 6 | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Trinity UniversitySan Antonio · 4.9 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of Texas-San AntonioSan Antonio · 9.7 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos · 47.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 75.7 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 97.7 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 155.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 168.2 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Rice UniversityHouston · 190.8 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 191.4 mi
U.S. News #202
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding St. Mary's University:
-
Trinity University - Ranked 59th in the 2024 US News rankings, Trinity University is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station - Holding the 47th position in the rankings, Texas A & M is a large public research university with a robust engineering and agriculture program, along with a rich tradition of student involvement.
-
Rice University - Ranked 17th, Rice University is an esteemed private research university in Houston, renowned for its small class sizes, research opportunities, and a strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
-
The University of Texas at Austin - With a ranking of 32, this large public university is recognized for its diverse academic offerings, vibrant campus culture, and strong athletic programs.
-
Baylor University - Baylor University, ranked 93rd, is a private Christian university that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, combining academic rigor with faith-based values.
These institutions offer a variety of educational experiences and opportunities for students in the San Antonio area.
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 St. Mary's University
The crime rates at St. Mary's University show a fluctuating trend over the years, with significant spikes in certain years that raise concerns about student safety on campus. For instance, in 2015, the crime rate reached an alarming 42.78 incidents per 1,000 students, which is notably higher than in preceding years. This trend continued into 2017, where the rate peaked again at 46.54. Such fluctuations may be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus security policies, student behavior, or even the broader societal context regarding crime.
Interestingly, the data reveals that arrests related to firearm offenses and drug-related incidents have contributed to the overall crime statistics. In particular, the number of drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents indicates a persistent issue that universities across the nation are grappling with. It’s crucial for institutions to implement effective prevention and intervention strategies to address these concerns, ensuring a safer environment for students.
Moreover, the data for 2023 shows a resurgence in crime rates, suggesting that the university may need to reevaluate its security measures and support systems for students. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be essential to mitigate these rising trends and foster a safe educational atmosphere.
As crime rates can significantly impact student enrollment and community perception, it is imperative for St. Mary's University to address these challenges head-on. For further insights into crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of St. Mary’s University include John Cornyn (US senator for Texas), James R. Clapper (Former Director of National Intelligence) and Michael McCaul (US Representative from Texas).
-
John Cornyn 1952–
US senator for Texas
-
James R. Clapper 1941–
Former Director of National Intelligence
-
Michael McCaul 1962–
US Representative from Texas
-
Blake Farenthold 1961–2025
Republican U.S. congressman and lobbyist
-
Ciro Rodriguez 1946–
Former US Representative from Texas
-
Bobby Pulido 1971–
Musician and U.S. representative-elect from Texas
-
Charlie Gonzalez 1945–
Former US Representative from Texas
-
Kika de la Garza 1927–2017
Texas congressman who served 16 terms
-
Robert Reid 1955–2024
Basketball player with 13 NBA seasons
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.