Alverno College
Acceptance rate
85.7%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$34,086
$44,774 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
673
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
40.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 52.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Alverno College, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a private women's college known for its unique approach to education and its commitment to the development of the whole person. Established in 1887, the college emphasizes the liberal arts and encourages students to engage in experiential learning. One of Alverno's defining features is its distinctive assessment system, which focuses on students' abilities and competencies rather than traditional grading. This innovative model fosters a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to take ownership of their education and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "A Woman's College in the Heart of Milwaukee," reflecting its dedication to empowering women through education.
The college boasts a strong emphasis on community engagement and social responsibility, often encouraging students to participate in service-learning opportunities that connect them with local organizations. Alverno's commitment to diversity and inclusion creates a vibrant campus culture, where students from various backgrounds can thrive. Additionally, the college offers a wide range of programs, including degrees in business, education, and health sciences, preparing graduates for successful careers. With a strong network of alumni and partnerships with local industries, Alverno College enhances its students' career prospects, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce upon graduation. The college's beautiful campus provides a supportive environment conducive to academic and personal growth, making Alverno a nurturing place for young women to develop their skills and leadership potential.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Alverno College
Alverno College, a private institution, has experienced significant shifts in several critical areas over the years. One of the most striking trends is the increase in tuition fees. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $23,231 to $32,794, marking an increase of approximately 41%. This constant rise in tuition can be a deterrent for prospective students, especially as student debt continues to be a pressing issue in the United States.
Another area of concern is the declining number of enrolled students. The undergraduate student population has decreased from 1,932 in 2013 to just 788 in 2023. This represents a staggering decline of about 59%, which raises questions about the college's appeal and market positioning. Such a trend could have long-term implications for the institution's financial health and sustainability.
The graduation rates also reveal a nuanced picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has fluctuated, showing an increase from approximately 11% in 2016 to about 22% in 2022. This improvement suggests that while fewer students are enrolling, those who do have a better chance of completing their degrees on time. However, the overall low graduation rates still warrant attention, as they can affect the institution's reputation and the perceived value of its degrees.
Lastly, the retention rate has remained relatively stable, hovering around 70%. This indicates that once students are enrolled, they are likely to stay, but the challenge remains in attracting new students to reverse the declining enrollment trend. The college may need to reassess its strategies to enhance its allure to potential students, possibly by addressing financial concerns or highlighting unique educational offerings.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Milwaukee, about 6 mi
- Nearest international airport
- General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 4 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Christy L. Brown (President)
- Phone
- 4143826000
- Address
- 3400 S 43rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53234-3922
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Alverno College Admission Trends
The admission data from Alverno College reveals significant fluctuations in both the enrollment numbers and acceptance rates over the years. Notably, the trend indicates a gradual decrease in the percentage of male applicants accepted, with the most recent data showing a 90.84% acceptance rate for females and a 89.91% rate for males, reflecting an increasingly competitive environment for prospective students.
The enrollment figures peaked at 267 in 2009 and have shown considerable variation, suggesting shifts in both applicant interest and institutional capacity. The data also highlights the number of students denied admission, peaking at 240 in 2019, which corresponds with a notable decline in acceptance rates. This decline may point to a more selective admissions process, possibly in response to increasing applications or a strategic focus on maintaining academic standards.
Additionally, the number of deferrals has consistently risen, peaking at 492 in 2022. This increase could indicate that students are seeking more time to consider their options or are facing external pressures such as financial constraints or uncertainties related to the global situation, notably the ongoing impact of the pandemic on education.
Overall, Alverno College's admission data reflects broader trends in higher education, including increasing selectivity and the need for institutions to adapt to changing demographics and student needs. As the college navigates these challenges, it will be essential to maintain its commitment to diversity and access for all students.
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
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Alverno College Admission Data
The admission data from Alverno College over the years reveals interesting trends regarding standardized test submissions and scores. A striking feature is the consistent reliance on the ACT, with a high percentage of applicants submitting their scores, peaking at 96% in the years 2007 and 2008. In contrast, SAT submissions have been notably low, with only 2% in 2009 and 2014, and a maximum of 4% in later years. This indicates a possible preference for the ACT among prospective students or a shift in the college's admission strategy.
Furthermore, examining the score data, we observe that the SAT reading and mathematics scores, as well as the ACT composite scores, showed a range within the 25th to 75th percentiles. For instance, the SAT reading and math scores ranged from 405 to 560 in recent years, reflecting a diverse applicant pool. The absence of specific starting and ending scores for earlier years suggests that there may have been changes in data collection or reporting standards over time.
The decrease in SAT submissions and the stable dominance of ACT scores could reflect broader trends in college admissions, where students are increasingly choosing one standardized test over another based on personal strengths or college requirements. Additionally, recent moves by many colleges to adopt test-optional policies may further affect these statistics in the years to come.
Overall, Alverno College's data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions and the critical role that standardized testing continues to play, despite the growing trend toward more holistic evaluation methods.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
624 applicants in 2025, 85.7% admitted
535 admitted 89 not admitted Yield 16.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's122 (1% international)
- School Psychology · Master's38 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's23 (0% international)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other · Master's22 (36% international)
- Education, General · Doctoral16 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's16 (6% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Alverno College
The graduation data from Alverno College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into various disciplines, particularly in the fields of health and education. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 166 graduates at the master’s level, showcasing the institution's strong commitment to healthcare education. This aligns with the ongoing demand for qualified healthcare professionals, especially in light of recent global health challenges, emphasizing the importance of nursing in public health systems.
In the realm of psychology, the School Psychology program produced 30 master's graduates, reflecting a growing recognition of mental health's critical role in educational settings. The increasing awareness around mental health issues, exacerbated by the pandemic, likely contributes to this demand for trained school psychologists.
Interestingly, there were no bachelor’s or associate degree graduates reported across most programs, which may indicate a focus on advanced degrees or potentially a lack of undergraduate offerings in these fields. The absence of international students graduating from bachelor’s programs also suggests a need for policy adjustments to attract a more diverse student body.
Furthermore, the educational leadership and administration program produced 24 doctorate graduates, indicating a strong emphasis on developing leaders in education. This is crucial as educational institutions seek innovative approaches to enhance learning environments and address contemporary educational challenges.
Overall, Alverno College's graduation data highlights its strengths in healthcare and education, while also pointing to areas where further development could enhance its academic offerings and attract a broader range of students.
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 | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Pediatric Nurse/Nursing. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Critical Care Nursing. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Geriatric Nurse/Nursing. | $80,170-$115,056 | ||||
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $77,251 | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $81,178 | ||||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $81,178 | ||||
| Superintendency and Educational System Administration. | $81,178 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, Other. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $44,081-$59,664 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $44,081-$59,664 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $44,081-$59,664 | ||||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other. | $44,081-$59,664 | ||||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Health Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $34,509 | ||||
| Community Psychology. | $60,981 | ||||
| School Psychology. | $60,981 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,549-$75,516 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $45,213 | ||||
| General Studies. | $45,213 | ||||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $45,213 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other. | - | ||||
| Music, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $47,077 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
1,317 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 2:98 · Freshman retention 61.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 477
- First-year undergraduates 88
- Graduate students 644
- Transfers and others 108
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (673)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Alverno College 2023
In 2023, Alverno College showcases a diverse student body with a significant representation of women, particularly among undergraduate students. The data reveals that undergraduate freshmen are entirely female, with 133 enrolled, while undergraduate juniors and transfer students also exhibit a predominantly female demographic, with 98.4% and 96.1% respectively. This trend is consistent with broader patterns observed in many higher education institutions across the United States, where women often outnumber men in undergraduate programs.
Graduate students at Alverno also reflect a strong female presence, with only 13.6% being male. This aligns with national statistics indicating that women are increasingly enrolling in graduate programs, particularly in fields such as education and health sciences, which are traditionally female-dominated.
The breakdown of ethnic diversity among students highlights a commitment to inclusivity. While specific percentages are not available for each subgroup, the presence of various ethnicities such as White, Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students indicates that Alverno is making efforts to create a rich multicultural environment.
Overall, the student composition at Alverno College in 2023 reflects ongoing trends in higher education regarding gender and ethnic diversity. The predominance of female students, especially in undergraduate programs, positions Alverno as a supportive environment for women pursuing higher education, echoing the growing recognition of the importance of gender equity in academic settings.
Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at Alverno College
The age composition of students at Alverno College reveals interesting trends, particularly in the undergraduate and graduate categories. The data indicates a significant presence of traditional-age students, particularly in the 18-19 age range, where all 206 students are undergraduates, showcasing the college’s appeal to younger learners.
In terms of graduate studies, the age group of 22-24 years shows a notable number of both male and female students, with 11 males and 113 females enrolled. This suggests that the college is successfully attracting young adults who are continuing their education immediately after completing their undergraduate degrees, aligning with the national trend of increasing enrollment in graduate programs among younger demographics.
Moreover, the age groups of 25-29 and 30-34 years display a blend of both genders in graduate studies, particularly with a robust female presence. This could reflect broader societal trends where individuals are pursuing advanced degrees later in life or are returning to education after gaining some professional experience.
The data also highlights a smaller, yet important representation of older students, especially those aged 40 and above, indicating that Alverno College provides opportunities for lifelong learning. The presence of older students pursuing graduate education reflects the growing trend of non-traditional students returning to school for personal and professional development.
Overall, Alverno College's demographic data points to a diverse age range among its students, fostering an inclusive educational environment that caters to both traditional and non-traditional learners. This diversity not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students for the multifaceted realities of today's workforce.
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.
7 in 2025 · 1.7% in 2016
52 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Alverno College
The data on international student enrollment at Alverno College reveals notable trends over the years. Starting in 2004, the number of undergraduate students was 1,951, with a mere 18 international students comprising approximately 0.92% of the total. This percentage has seen fluctuations throughout the years, reaching its peak in 2016, where international students made up about 1.73% of the undergraduate population. However, a concerning decline is evident in more recent years; by 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students had dropped to only 0.63%, with just 5 students enrolled.
On the graduate side, while the total number of graduate students has generally increased, the proportion of international students has been relatively low. In 2004, international students represented 0.48% of the graduate population, rising to a peak of 1.27% in 2019. However, similar to undergraduate trends, the graduate enrollment of international students has also seen a decline, stabilizing at around 0.87% in 2023.
These trends can reflect broader national and global dynamics affecting international student mobility, such as changes in visa policies, economic factors, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As institutions seek to diversify their student bodies and enhance global perspectives, Alverno College may need to reassess its strategies to attract international students, particularly in light of declining enrollment numbers. Engaging with international markets and providing robust support systems for foreign students could help rejuvenate these figures in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$44,774
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,086
- Room and board
- $10,688
- Graduate tuition
- $12,018
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 40%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$31.6M
Expenses$40.6M
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 · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference
Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | - | 13 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 10 |
| Cross Country | - | 9 |
| Golf | - | 6 |
| Tennis | - | 5 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Soccer | - | 14 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 13 |
| Basketball | - | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 10 |
| Tennis | - | 7 |
| Golf | - | 4 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Soccer | - | 18 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 14 |
| Basketball | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 9 |
| Tennis | - | 7 |
| Golf | - | 4 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Marquette UniversityMilwaukee · 4.3 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of Wisconsin--MilwaukeeMilwaukee · 7.8 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Concordia University WisconsinMequon · 18.9 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 51.1 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Beloit CollegeBeloit · 63.3 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 66.0 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 69.6 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison · 73.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 77.2 mi
Liberal Arts #57
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Alverno College:
-
Marquette University - Ranked 86th in the 2024 US News, Marquette University is a comprehensive university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Northwestern University - With a prestigious rank of 9th, Northwestern University is an elite comprehensive university situated in Evanston, Illinois. It is renowned for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison - This comprehensive university ranks 35th in the nation. It is known for its vibrant campus life and strong research programs in a variety of fields.
-
University of Chicago - A top-tier institution ranked 12th, the University of Chicago is known for its influential research and academic programs, particularly in economics and the humanities.
-
Loyola University Chicago - Ranked 142nd, Loyola University Chicago is a comprehensive university that emphasizes social justice and community engagement, offering diverse programs across various disciplines.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic environment in the area surrounding Alverno College.
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 Alverno College
The crime statistics at Alverno College exhibit a fluctuating trend over the years, highlighting the varying safety levels within the campus community. Starting from a low crime rate in 2013, where the rate was just 0.16 incidents per 1000 students, the figures began to rise significantly in subsequent years. Notably, 2014 recorded a peak with a rate of 3.63, which was a drastic increase compared to the previous year.
The years that followed saw a series of ups and downs, with 2016 and 2017 showing particularly high rates of 4.62 and 4.86, respectively. However, there were also years like 2021 and 2022 where the rates dropped to 1.60 and 0.00, indicating either successful crime prevention efforts or potentially a lack of reporting incidents.
The latest data from 2023 reflects a concerning spike, with an average of 6.89 incidents per 1000 students, the highest recorded rate in the dataset. This indicates a need for the college administration to reassess their safety protocols and support systems for students.
It is essential for educational institutions to prioritize safety and provide a secure environment for their students. The fluctuation in crime rates suggests that ongoing vigilance and effective crime prevention strategies are crucial in maintaining campus safety. Understanding these trends can aid in developing more effective policies to protect the community.
For further details on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Alverno College include Diane Drufenbrock (Catholic sister and politician), Marilyn Shrude (Composer, pianist and Bowling Green State University professor) and Joel Read (Religious sister, president of Alverno College 1968–2003).
-
Diane Drufenbrock 1929–2013
Catholic sister and politician
-
Marilyn Shrude 1946–
Composer, pianist and Bowling Green State University professor
-
Joel Read 1926–2017
Religious sister, president of Alverno College 1968–2003
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.