Saint Martin’s University
Acceptance rate
89.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$45,510
$60,662 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,189
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
53.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 60.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Martin's University, located in Lacey, Washington, is a private Catholic university known for its commitment to providing a holistic education grounded in the liberal arts. Established in 1895 by the Benedictine Sisters of the St. Martin's Abbey, the university emphasizes the development of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The university’s motto, “The Truth Will Set You Free,” reflects its dedication to fostering an environment that encourages critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and social responsibility among its students.
The campus is characterized by its stunning natural surroundings, nestled within a picturesque landscape of evergreen trees and scenic views. Saint Martin's offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. The university boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship from dedicated faculty members. Moreover, the vibrant campus culture promotes student involvement through numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, fostering a sense of community and belonging. With a focus on service and leadership, graduates of Saint Martin's University are well-prepared to pursue successful careers and contribute positively to society.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at Saint Martin's University
Saint Martin's University has shown significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily risen, reaching approximately $42,220 in 2023 from $30,284 in 2014, which marks an increase of over 39%. This sharp rise in tuition can place a substantial financial burden on students, particularly for those from lower-income backgrounds, and may influence their decision to enroll or continue their studies.
In terms of academic success, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate peaking at around 57.6% in 2022, a notable improvement from only 34.1% in 2014. This upward trend indicates that students are increasingly able to finish their degrees within the expected timeframe, which is a positive reflection on the university’s support systems and academic programs.
Retention rates have also revealed a concerning decline recently. After peaking at approximately 82.9% in 2014, the retention rate fell to 70.1% in 2023. This decrease suggests challenges in maintaining student engagement and satisfaction, which can be critical in ensuring a robust educational environment.
Moreover, the gender ratios among undergraduate students have shown some stability, with female students consistently comprising a slight majority. However, the fluctuating male-to-female ratios in graduate programs could indicate shifts in enrollment patterns that may need to be addressed through targeted outreach or support initiatives.
Overall, while Saint Martin's University is making strides in improving graduation rates, the rising tuition and declining retention rates highlight areas that require attention to enhance the educational experience and support student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Seattle, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 35 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- William Brownsberger (President)
- Phone
- 3604914700
- City
- Lacey, Washington
- Address
- 5000 Abbey Way SE, Lacey, WA 98503-7500
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 95.6%, women 96.1%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Saint Martin's University
The admission data from Saint Martin's University highlights several noteworthy trends over the years. Starting in 2009, the admission rates for both male and female applicants have shown a gradual increase, reaching a peak in 2018, where the acceptance rate for males was approximately 96.47% and for females, about 98.14%. This upward trajectory suggests a growing accessibility for prospective students, possibly influenced by the university's efforts to attract a diverse student body.
However, the sharp decline in enrollment and the increase in denial rates in 2022 raises concerns. The male acceptance rate dropped to approximately 71.96%, with 753 applicants denied admission, the highest number recorded throughout the years. This drastic shift may be attributed to various factors, including changing demographic trends, increased competition from other institutions, or potential adjustments in the university's admission strategy.
Interestingly, the data indicates that despite fluctuations, the total enrollment numbers have generally remained robust, peaking in 2022 with 348 new students, despite the high denial count. The ability to defer admission also reflects the university's flexibility in accommodating students.
Overall, while Saint Martin's University has demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and growth, the recent trends indicate a critical juncture that may require reassessment of admission policies to ensure they align with the evolving educational landscape and student needs.
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
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 · 12% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Saint Martin's University
The admissions data from Saint Martin's University over the years reveals several noteworthy trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Firstly, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has gradually decreased, dropping from 100% in 2007 to just 22% in 2023. This significant decline may reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. This shift could be indicative of an evolving understanding of student potential and readiness beyond numerical scores.
Moreover, the SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuation over the years. For instance, while the lower quartile score in reading began at 430 in 2007, it peaked at 510 in 2022 before slightly declining to 470 in 2023. Such variations suggest that while the university has experienced changes in applicant quality, it may also reflect the wider educational landscape and the impact of different cohorts of students.
The data also highlights a consistent effort to maintain a diverse applicant pool, despite the decreasing number of SAT submissions. The university's admissions strategy seems to be adapting to these changes, potentially focusing more on holistic evaluations of candidates.
In conclusion, Saint Martin's University appears to be navigating the evolving landscape of college admissions with a flexible approach, reflecting broader national trends while still striving to maintain academic standards. The decreasing reliance on standardized test scores could lead to a more inclusive admissions process that values diverse backgrounds and experiences.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
2,127 applicants in 2025, 89.8% admitted
1,910 admitted 217 not admitted Yield 12.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling · Master's23 (4% international)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's20 (10% international)
- Mechanical Engineering · Master's8 (25% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's7 (0% international)
- Higher Education/Higher Education Administration · Master's4 (0% international)
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Saint Martin's University
The graduation data from Saint Martin's University in 2023 reveals interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with the highest number of bachelor graduates, totaling 61 students. This reflects the growing demand for healthcare professionals in an increasingly health-conscious society.
In the realm of business education, the administration programs, particularly in management and operations, also show significant enrollment, with 39 bachelor graduates and 22 master graduates. This aligns with the ongoing emphasis on business acumen in today's job market, where graduates are equipped with skills to navigate complex organizational challenges.
Education remains a vital field, with multiple programs generating graduates at different levels. The Elementary Education and Teaching program yielded 20 bachelor graduates, while Teacher Education and Professional Development produced 19 master graduates. This indicates a steady commitment to developing future educators, which is crucial given the global focus on enhancing educational standards.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating in many programs, particularly at the bachelor level, suggesting a potential area for growth in attracting a diverse student body. The presence of only a few international graduates in master's programs could highlight the need for universities to bolster their appeal to global talent.
Lastly, the fields of Psychology and Computer Science, while having fewer graduates, still represent essential areas of study. As industries increasingly rely on data and mental health awareness, these disciplines may see growth in future cohorts. Overall, the data points to a robust educational environment at Saint Martin's University, with clear opportunities for expansion and greater inclusivity.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | $55,211 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,556 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,701-$63,091 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $41,701-$63,091 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $41,701-$63,091 | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,420-$66,737 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $45,420-$66,737 | |||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $45,420-$66,737 | |||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering, General. | $75,875 | |||
| Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | - | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $73,109 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $44,236 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | $97,962 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $34,516 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $44,501 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| General Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | - |
Students
1,390 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 44:56 · Freshman retention 64.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 726
- First-year undergraduates 244
- Graduate students 201
- Transfers and others 219
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,189)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Martin's University for 2023
The student body composition at Saint Martin's University in 2023 reflects a diverse demographic landscape, with notable gender ratios and various ethnic backgrounds. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 294 students, where females represent 59.5% and males account for 40.5%. This trend continues among the continuing undergraduate students, who number 887, with females making up an even larger percentage at 63.5%, while males stand at 36.5%.
Interestingly, the transfer students present a different balance, with a majority of 59.5% being male and 40.5% female, indicating a potential trend of more male students transferring into the undergraduate program. The graduate student population is also predominantly female, with 57.4% compared to 42.6% male students.
Ethnically, the data shows a variety of backgrounds among students, with white students being the largest group across the different categories. However, the exact numbers for ethnic distributions remain unspecified for the continuing and graduate students, which limits a comprehensive understanding of the diversity within these cohorts.
In recent years, discussions surrounding the importance of diversity and inclusivity in higher education have intensified, reflecting broader societal changes and demands for equitable representation. Saint Martin's University appears to be fostering a diverse environment, although further transparency in specific ethnic breakdowns could enhance understanding and inform future diversity initiatives. The gender ratios indicate a significant female presence, particularly in undergraduate programs, which may reflect changing societal norms around education and gender roles.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Saint Martin's University
The age composition of students at Saint Martin's University reveals intriguing insights into the demographic trends of the student body. The most populous age group is the 18-19 category, comprising a significant number of undergraduates, with 156 male students and 325 female students. This indicates a strong influx of fresh high school graduates entering university, a trend that is common across many institutions.
As students progress in age, particularly in the 20-21 and 22-24 age brackets, we observe a decline in the number of male undergraduates, with 142 and 79 respectively. On the other hand, female undergraduates maintain a robust presence, with 289 and 55 in the same age groups. This gender disparity continues into the older age categories, where the number of male graduate students is less than that of their female counterparts in various age ranges, particularly evident in the 40-49 category.
Interestingly, the data suggests that older students, especially those in the 30-34 and 35-39 ranges, are also pursuing higher education, with a noticeable number of females returning to study. This reflects broader societal trends where adult learners are increasingly seeking qualifications to enhance their career prospects or pivot to new fields.
Moreover, the representation of students over 65 years old remains minimal, indicating that while lifelong learning is encouraged, traditional university environments may still be less accessible to older individuals. Overall, the demographic data from Saint Martin's University illustrates a vibrant and diverse student body, with particular strengths in female enrollment across various age categories.
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.
48 in 2025 · 7.4% in 2016
13 in 2025 · 7.1% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Saint Martin's University
The data on international student enrollment at Saint Martin's University over the years reveals a complex and fluctuating landscape. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students showed a gradual increase, peaking in 2015 at 8.31%. This period of growth indicates a rising interest in the university among foreign students, possibly due to enhanced global outreach and academic offerings.
However, the subsequent years present a stark contrast. From 2016 onwards, there has been a notable decline in both the absolute number and percentage of international undergraduates, culminating in a mere 2.12% in 2023. This decline might be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and perhaps increased competition from other institutions that may offer more attractive programs or support for international students.
The graduate student data presents a somewhat similar narrative. Although there was a significant rise in the percentage of international graduate students from 2010 to 2015, the subsequent years saw a decline as well, with the percentage dropping to 4.51% in 2023. This situation reflects a broader trend affecting many universities in the U.S., where fluctuating visa regulations and the global political climate can impact international enrollment.
In conclusion, while Saint Martin's University has experienced periods of growth in international enrollment, the recent declines highlight significant challenges that need to be addressed. The university may need to reassess its strategies to attract and retain international students in an increasingly competitive and unpredictable environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$60,662
- Undergraduate tuition
- $45,510
- Room and board
- $15,152
- Graduate tuition
- $17,332
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 37% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 47%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$52.2M
Expenses$47.8M
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 · Great Northwest Athletic Conference
Great Northwest Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 62 | 47 |
| Soccer | 30 | 26 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 8 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 60 | 47 |
| Soccer | 31 | 32 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Golf | 7 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 58 | 69 |
| Soccer | 29 | 27 |
| Basketball | 18 | 18 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 22.1 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Seattle UniversitySeattle · 45.6 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Seattle Pacific UniversitySeattle · 47.2 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of Washington-Seattle CampusSeattle · 48.7 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 105.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Pacific UniversityForest Grove · 105.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Reed CollegePortland · 108.2 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 110.1 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 120.3 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Saint Martin's University:
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University of Puget Sound - Ranked 89th in the 2024 US News rankings, this liberal arts college is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a vibrant campus community.
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Seattle University - A comprehensive university ranked 163rd, Seattle University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing social justice and community engagement.
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University of Washington-Seattle Campus - This prestigious institution is ranked 40th and is renowned for its research programs and diverse academic offerings, making it one of the top public universities in the nation.
-
Reed College - Ranked 67th, Reed is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic standards and strong emphasis on independent study.
-
Oregon State University - With a ranking of 142, OSU is a comprehensive public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a strong focus on research and sustainability.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities in various fields and are well-regarded in the academic community.
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 Data at Saint Martin's University
The crime statistics at Saint Martin's University over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the crime rate among students. The data shows a peak in 2021, with a crime rate of 23.32 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike may correlate with broader societal trends, as many universities experienced increases in crime during the COVID-19 pandemic, where social distancing and isolation measures could have exacerbated issues such as substance abuse and domestic violence.
In contrast, years like 2015 and 2022 showed much lower crime rates of 5.00 and 8.91 incidents per 1,000 students, respectively. This decline may indicate effective campus safety measures or successful outreach programs aimed at reducing crime. Interestingly, the data also highlights recurring issues, with arrests related to drug and alcohol offenses consistently contributing to the overall statistics.
The university's commitment to creating a safe environment is critical, particularly in light of rising national concerns about campus safety. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures, such as educational programs and support services, are essential for maintaining and improving safety on campus. As we analyze this data, it is clear that understanding the underlying causes of crime is crucial for developing effective strategies to enhance student safety and wellbeing.
For further understanding of crime rate calculations, one can refer to resources like this: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Saint Martin’s University include Butch Otter (32nd Governor of Idaho), Mike Thibault (Basketball head coach and general manager) and Kyle Sokol (Bassist and skateboarder).
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Butch Otter 1942–
32nd Governor of Idaho
-
Mike Thibault 1950–
Basketball head coach and general manager
-
Kyle Sokol 1974–
Bassist and skateboarder
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Melanie Morgan 1967–
Washington state representative
-
Justin Leone 1977–
Former MLB third baseman for Mariners and Padres
Recent News at Saint Martin’s University
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Six Saint Martin's University students served in nonpartisan roles during the 2024 Washington State Legislature session, making up the largest group from any college in the state rather than program history.
Source: graysharbortalk.com
No updates on this topic in this month.
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.