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Private nonprofit, 4-year

St. Mary’s University

San Antonio, Texas · www.stmarytx.edu

中文

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
San Antonio, Texas
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

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
97.5%
Women
97.9%

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

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

SAT total900–1310Peer median 1158
ACT composite15–27
SAT Reading
465–665
600700800
SAT Math
435–645
600700800
ACT composite
15–27
253036

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)

Bachelor's43154 international (12.5%)
Master's17020 international (11.8%)
Doctoral2142 international (0.9%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
38
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
36
Criminology
33
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
28
Political Science and Government, General
28
Finance, General
26
Forensic Science and Technology
25
Psychology, General
24
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
20
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
18

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

Legal professionshas 259 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Law.$59,674-$72,309
American/U.S. Law/Legal Studies/Jurisprudence.-
Businesshas 132 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
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
Social sciencehas 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminology.$38,730
Economics, General.-
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.$38,871
Sociology, General.-
Homeland security has 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$41,170
Forensic Science and Technology.$36,496
Biologyhas 39 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$30,767
Biochemistry.-
Bioinformatics.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$31,796
Engineeringhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
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.-
Psychology has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$29,806
Industrial and Organizational Psychology.-
Computer and information sciencehas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Communication has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$49,315
Health professionshas 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.$49,519
English has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
History has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Public/Applied History.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering/Industrial Management.-
Educationhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Art Teacher Education.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
International/Globalization Studies.-
Public administrationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Public Administration.$60,068
Natural resources has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Science.-
Theology has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Theology/Theological Studies.-
Visual and Performing artshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Music, General.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-

Students

3,456 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 40:60 · Freshman retention 73.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,149)

Hispanic
1,046 · 48.7%
Unknown
465 · 21.6%
White
370 · 17.2%
International
151 · 7.0%
Black
47 · 2.2%
Asian
30 · 1.4%
Two or more races
19 · 0.9%

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.

Undergraduates7.0%

151 in 2025 · 7.5% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 7.5%2017: 9.0%2018: 9.0%2019: 8.0%2020: 6.1%2021: 4.9%2022: 6.5%2023: 7.1%2024: 7.7%2025: 7.0%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students3.3%

43 in 2025 · 10.6% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 10.6%2017: 10.5%2018: 8.9%2019: 7.1%2020: 4.2%2021: 4.2%2022: 3.7%2023: 3.4%2024: 3.4%2025: 3.3%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

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
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 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 45%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$146M

Tuition and fees
$57.8M39.6%
Investment return
$48.3M33.1%
Government grants and contracts
$14.8M10.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.1M8.3%
Gifts and private grants
$9.7M6.6%
Other
$3.3M2.3%

Expenses$112M

Instruction
$41.6M37.1%
Institutional support
$22.3M19.8%
Student services
$19.8M17.7%
Academic support
$12.3M11.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.1M10.8%
Public service
$2.4M2.1%
Research
$1.7M1.6%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$96,441peers $68,006
Professor
$124,701peers $78,041
Associate professor
$93,362peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$76,771peers $63,827
Instructor
$55,181peers $55,171
Lecturer
$47,355peers $59,832

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Lone Star Conference

Lone Star Conference: basketball, baseball

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3126
Baseball40-
Basketball1615
Other Sports-30
Softball-22
Tennis139
Volleyball-18
Golf98
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3431
Baseball50-
Basketball2215
Other Sports-33
Tennis1313
Softball-22
Volleyball-19
Golf87
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3234
Baseball47-
Basketball2214
Tennis1512
Softball-24
Volleyball-18
Golf67

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable institutions surrounding St. Mary's University:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor arrests
107
Drug arrests
83
Liquor referrals
70
Rape
36
Domestic violence
24
Motor vehicle theft
21

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 24

Notable 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).

See all 24 notable alumni of St. Mary’s University →

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.