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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Marian University

Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin · www.marianuniversity.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

75.0%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$35,204

$45,053 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,021

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

36.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 51.3%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Marian University, located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, is a private Catholic university that has built a strong reputation for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Founded in 1936, the university emphasizes the importance of a holistic education, integrating liberal arts and professional programs in a nurturing environment. The university's mission is grounded in the values of the Catholic tradition, focusing on the development of the whole person—intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally. This dedication is reflected in the university's motto, "In the Spirit of Truth and Charity," which inspires students to pursue knowledge while contributing positively to society.

The campus features a vibrant culture that encourages student engagement and personal growth. With a variety of student organizations and activities, Marian University fosters a strong sense of community and belonging among its students. The university offers a range of athletic programs, allowing students to participate in NCAA Division III sports, which promotes teamwork and physical fitness. Additionally, Marian University boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, which enhance the learning experience. The dedicated faculty members are not only experts in their respective fields but also committed to mentoring students, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers. Overall, Marian University provides a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally while making meaningful contributions to their communities.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Marian University

Marian University, a private institution, has shown significant trends in several key metrics over the years. One of the most noteworthy aspects is the rising tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students surged from $24,650 to $33,000, reflecting a staggering increase of approximately 34%. This trend raises concerns about affordability and accessibility for potential students, especially as the burden of student debt continues to be a pressing issue nationwide.

Another critical metric is the student enrollment numbers, which have experienced a steady decline from 1,797 in 2013 to just 1,068 in 2023. This drop of about 40% over a decade could indicate a growing concern regarding the university's appeal or competitiveness in attracting new students. Coupled with rising tuition, this could deter prospective students from considering Marian University, leading to questions about the institution's long-term viability.

Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate showing a slight improvement from 31.1% in 2013 to 34.7% in 2023. However, this figure still suggests that more than 65% of students are not completing their degrees on time. This could be a contributing factor to retention issues, as indicated by the retention rate, which has hovered around 65% to 71% in recent years. A strong retention rate is crucial for sustaining enrollment numbers and improving graduation statistics.

In terms of gender demographics, there has been a notable shift in the gender ratio among undergraduate students, with the percentage of male students increasing slightly from 29% in 2013 to approximately 33.5% in 2023. This change could reflect broader trends in higher education, where women have historically outnumbered men.

Overall, Marian University faces challenges in affordability, enrollment, and retention that could impact its future. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's growth and reputation in a competitive landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Milwaukee, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 60 mi
Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin
Also known as
Marian University of Fond du Lac
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Roman Catholic
President
Aaron Sadoff (President)
Phone
9209237600
City
Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin
Address
45 S National Ave, Fond Du Lac, WI 54935-4699

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
67.9%
Women
80.1%

In 2020: men 60.3%, women 66.6%.

Data insights

Analysis of Marian University's Admission Trends

The admission data for Marian University over the years reflects a notable trend in the acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rate for male applicants fluctuated significantly, with the highest rate recorded at approximately 91.21% in 2013, while the lowest dipped to about 60.27% in 2020. For female applicants, the rates have also experienced variability, with the lowest acceptance rate hitting around 70.99% in 2013, contrasting sharply with the highest rate of around 88.96% in 2009.
The enrollment numbers have shown a relatively stable range between 220 and 352 new students over these years, with the highest enrollment occurring in 2018. However, the number of denied applications has seen a dramatic increase, particularly evident in 2019 and 2020 when the number of denials reached 686 and 661, respectively. This rise in denials, coupled with a drop in acceptance rates, suggests a more competitive admissions landscape, possibly influenced by the overall increase in college applications during this period.
Additionally, the number of students deferring their admission has also fluctuated, reflecting potential shifts in student decisions influenced by factors such as economic conditions and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data illustrates the challenges Marian University faces in balancing enrollment and maintaining a diverse student body while adapting to changing applicant behaviors and market conditions. Overall, the admission data provides valuable insights into the evolving dynamics within higher education, particularly in the context of increasing competition and changing societal trends.

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

Nursing School#457

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 optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.

Data insights

Analysis of Marian University's Admission Test Scores Over the Years

The data from Marian University reveals an intriguing trend in standardized test score submissions from 2007 to 2023. Over the years, the number of students submitting SAT and ACT scores has varied significantly, with a noticeable increase in submissions around 2018. This may reflect broader national trends, as more students have recognized the importance of standardized testing in the college admissions process.

The SAT reading and math scores show an upward trajectory, particularly notable in 2021, with the 25th percentile beginning at 450 and the 75th percentile at 560. This suggests that the university is attracting a more academically competitive applicant pool. The comprehensive ACT scores also reveal a similar pattern, indicating an overall improvement in student performance.

However, the proportion of students submitting these scores is relatively low, particularly in the earlier years, where some years saw a submission rate of only 1-2%. By 2020, this number climbed to 18%, suggesting that more students are opting to submit their scores as part of their application process, possibly due to the increasing competitiveness of college admissions.

Interestingly, the data indicates a fluctuation in the number of submissions and the percentage of students submitting scores, suggesting that external factors—such as changes in admissions policies or the influence of test-optional policies—might be at play. This reflects a larger national conversation around the relevance of standardized testing in admissions, especially in light of recent movements toward test-optional policies in many universities.

In conclusion, Marian University's data illustrate a dynamic landscape in standardized testing, which is reflective of both institutional changes and broader trends in higher education. The university appears to be successfully attracting a diverse range of applicants, with a growing emphasis on standardized test performance.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,619 applicants in 2025, 75.0% admitted

1,214 admitted 405 not admitted Yield 18.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2299 international (3.9%)
Master's931 international (1.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
27
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
23
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
21
Psychology, General
20
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician
17
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer
17
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
11
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist
9
Health/Health Care Administration/Management
9
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
9

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other · Master's47 (0% international)
  • Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's12 (0% international)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other · Master's9 (0% international)
  • Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Management Science · Master's7 (0% international)
  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's7 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Statistics at Marian University

The graduation data from Marian University for the year 2023 reveals notable trends in various fields of study. A significant number of students graduated with a bachelor's degree in Registered Nursing, while other health-related programs also showed promising numbers. Specifically, the Registered Nursing program saw 33 graduates, indicating the university's strong emphasis on healthcare education, which aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals post-pandemic.

In the field of education, the Teacher Education and Professional Development program produced 26 master's graduates, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational practices and preparing future educators. This trend is crucial, particularly in light of the ongoing discussions regarding educational reform and teacher shortages across the country.

Psychology emerged as another popular field, with 24 bachelor’s graduates and 1 international student, suggesting a growing interest in mental health and psychological services. As mental health continues to gain recognition as a vital component of overall wellbeing, the emphasis on psychology education is timely.

Conversely, it is interesting to note the absence of graduates in several categories such as master's degrees in Registered Nursing and Social Work, as well as doctorate degrees across many disciplines. This could indicate a need for more robust recruitment and retention strategies at the graduate level, especially in high-demand fields such as healthcare and education.

Overall, the graduation data from Marian University highlights the institution's strengths in healthcare and education while also pinpointing areas for potential growth and development in graduate programs.

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

Health professionshas 149 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.-
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.$62,018
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.$62,018
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$62,018
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$71,223-$109,752
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$71,223-$109,752
Businesshas 52 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Organizational Leadership.-
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Management Science.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Marketing, Other.-
Psychology has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$45,416
Industrial and Organizational Psychology.-
Homeland security has 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Educationhas 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Special Education and Teaching, Other.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.-
Education, Other.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Biologyhas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Public administrationhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Communication has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia.-
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Physical scienceshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-

Students

1,246 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 38:62 · Freshman retention 67.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,021)

White
667 · 65.3%
Hispanic
124 · 12.1%
Black
73 · 7.1%
International
55 · 5.4%
Unknown
43 · 4.2%
Two or more races
33 · 3.2%
Asian
11 · 1.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Marian University (2023)

The student demographic data for Marian University in 2023 reveals a diverse population, particularly among undergraduate students. Notably, the incoming freshmen comprise 225 students, with a female majority of 67.6%. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent across other classifications, especially among graduate students, where females represent 79% of the cohort. This gender disparity within higher education institutions is a growing trend, reflecting broader societal shifts towards greater female participation in academia.

Examining racial and ethnic breakdowns, the white student population dominates across categories, with 156 white freshmen, 539 white undergraduates, and 220 white graduate students. The representation of other ethnicities, such as Asian and Latinx students, is significantly lower, indicating an area where the university could work to enhance diversity and inclusion. The presence of international students is also minimal, which may suggest potential barriers to enrollment that the university might want to address.

The data also shows that male representation, while lower than females across most categories, is slightly more balanced among transfer students and undergraduates, suggesting that there may be different dynamics at play in these groups. Overall, Marian University demonstrates a commitment to diversity, but there is still work to be done in achieving a more balanced representation across genders and ethnicities, especially in a time when higher education institutions are increasingly focusing on equity and inclusivity.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Marian University

The age distribution of students at Marian University reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. A significant portion of the student body falls within the younger age brackets, specifically those aged 18-21, where the total number of students is quite pronounced. The age group 18-19 contains 119 male undergraduates and 232 female undergraduates, representing approximately 34% of the total student population. This trend continues with the 20-21 age group, maintaining a similar gender distribution.

As we look at older age groups, we notice a gradual decline in student numbers. The 22-24 age group shows a slight increase in graduate male students, suggesting a potential shift towards advanced studies among young adults who are transitioning into their professional lives. However, it is noteworthy that the participation of students aged 25 and above is significantly lower, with only a noticeable count of graduate females aged 40-49, indicating that Marian University may attract primarily traditional-age students.

This age distribution aligns with broader trends observed in many universities across the United States, where traditional-age students make up the majority of the undergraduate population. However, the presence of older students in graduate programs reflects the growing trend of lifelong learning and career advancement.

Overall, Marian University appears to cater predominantly to younger students, while also providing opportunities for older individuals seeking further education, thereby creating a diverse educational environment that accommodates a wide range of ages and educational needs.

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.

Undergraduates5.4%

55 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.1%2017: 1.8%2018: 1.3%2019: 0.0%2020: 3.2%2021: 3.7%2022: 4.5%2023: 4.7%2024: 5.3%2025: 5.4%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.4%

1 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.9%2017: 0.2%2018: 0.6%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.4%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Marian University

The data on international student enrollment at Marian University reveals significant trends and fluctuations over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students has generally decreased, dropping from 1,856 to 1,068. Despite this decline, the proportion of international students has notably increased. In 2004, only 1.62% of undergraduates were international students, whereas by 2023, this figure had risen to 4.68%. This indicates a growing emphasis on attracting international talent, which could enhance the university's global presence and cultural diversity.

On the graduate level, the data is less complete, but the information available shows a minor increase in the representation of international students as well. In 2007, the percentage of international students in graduate programs was just 0.11%, while it reached 0.92% by 2016. However, there is a lack of consistent data for subsequent years, making it difficult to ascertain recent trends fully.

The rising percentages of international students, particularly in the undergraduate category, reflect broader national trends in higher education, where universities are increasingly recognizing the importance of global engagement. This focus is crucial, especially considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and student mobility.

Marian University’s strategic efforts to recruit international students can be seen as a positive step towards enhancing its academic environment and preparing students for a globalized workforce. As higher education institutions continue to adapt to changing demographics and global dynamics, the data suggests that Marian University is on the right path to fostering a more inclusive and diverse educational landscape.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$45,053

Undergraduate tuition
$35,204
Room and board
$9,849
Graduate tuition
$6,282
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 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 46%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$26.0M

Tuition and fees
$16.3M62.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.4M13.0%
Gifts and private grants
$3.0M11.5%
Investment return
$1.7M6.6%
Government grants and contracts
$603K2.3%
Other
$994K3.8%

Expenses$25.3M

Instruction
$6.1M24.0%
Student services
$5.9M23.5%
Institutional support
$5.2M20.6%
Academic support
$2.5M9.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.6M6.4%
Other
$4.0M15.8%

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
$73,445peers $68,006
Professor
$91,865peers $78,041
Associate professor
$78,224peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$71,373peers $63,827
Instructor
$41,159peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference

Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3333
Ice Hockey3129
Volleyball2228
Baseball43-
Basketball2316
Lacrosse1315
Softball-26
Golf149
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)88
Bowling-16
Field Hockey-12
Tennis-8
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3233
Ice Hockey3129
Volleyball1827
Baseball41-
Basketball2016
Lacrosse1916
Golf1415
Softball-27
Bowling-17
Field Hockey-12
Tennis-9
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3036
Ice Hockey3022
Lacrosse2814
Basketball2218
Baseball39-
Volleyball2217
Softball-23
Golf108
Tennis108
Bowling-18
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)56
Field Hockey-11

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Marian University:

  1. University of Wisconsin-Madison - Ranked 35th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Northwestern University - With a prestigious ranking of 9th, Northwestern is renowned for its excellent academic programs, particularly in journalism, business, and law.

  3. Loyola University Chicago - Ranked 142nd, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing social justice and service.

  4. DePaul University - At rank 151, DePaul is recognized for its diverse programs and strong commitment to experiential learning.

  5. University of Chicago - A top-tier institution, ranked 12th, known for its rigorous academic environment and notable alumni.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, providing students in the area with various educational opportunities.

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 referrals
43
Drug referrals
14
Fondling
1
Burglary
1
Liquor arrests
1
Dating violence
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Marian University

The crime statistics at Marian University over the years reveal a concerning trend, particularly in the increase of recorded offenses from 2013 to 2018. The average crime rate per 1000 students surged sharply to 14.00 in 2018, with a total of 27.6 reported incidents that year. This uptick in crime rate could be indicative of various underlying issues, such as increased student admissions, campus culture, or possibly ineffective crime prevention strategies.

Interestingly, after 2018, the crime rates started to plateau and even decline, reaching an average of 4.18 per 1000 students in 2023. This could suggest improvements in campus safety measures or a change in student behavior. However, the rates remain higher than those observed in 2013, which indicates that while there have been improvements, the university still faces challenges in maintaining a secure environment.

Notably, arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol have been a significant portion of the overall crime statistics. This aligns with a broader national trend observed on college campuses, where substance abuse frequently correlates with higher crime rates.

In conclusion, while Marian University has seen some improvements in crime rates in recent years, the overall figures remain a concern. Continuous efforts in enhancing campus safety, alongside promoting a culture of responsibility among students, will be essential in further reducing these rates. For more information on calculating crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

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.