Saint Norbert College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#132
Down 21 from 2026
Acceptance rate
85.7%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$45,580
$59,584 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,970
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
69.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 71.9%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Norbert College, located in De Pere, Wisconsin, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong Catholic Benedictine heritage. Established in 1898, the college emphasizes a holistic education that fosters both intellectual and personal growth. Its mission is encapsulated in the school motto, "In the Spirit of Saint Norbert," which reflects a commitment to community service, ethical leadership, and the pursuit of knowledge. The college's vibrant campus culture promotes inclusivity and diversity, encouraging students to engage in various extracurricular activities, including numerous clubs and organizations that cater to a wide array of interests.
The college boasts modern facilities that enhance the learning experience, including state-of-the-art laboratories, a comprehensive library, and athletic complexes that support a variety of sports. Saint Norbert College also has a strong emphasis on academic excellence with a dedicated faculty who are not only scholars in their respective fields but also mentors to students. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly excelling in areas such as business, education, and the liberal arts. Graduates of Saint Norbert College have found success in various fields, reflecting the institution's commitment to preparing students for impactful careers. Overall, Saint Norbert College stands out for its dedication to fostering a supportive community and promoting a well-rounded educational experience.
Trends in Tuition Costs and Enrollment at Saint Norbert College
Saint Norbert College, a private institution, has seen a significant increase in tuition costs over the years. From 2014 to 2024, undergraduate tuition rose from $31,866 to $44,432, marking a substantial increase of approximately 39.4%. This trend reflects a broader pattern observed across many private colleges in the U.S., where rising operational costs and the demand for enhanced facilities and services have led to higher tuition fees. This increase can pose challenges for prospective students and their families, as they weigh the financial implications of attending private institutions against public alternatives.
Concurrently, the total number of undergraduate students has shown a downward trend, decreasing from 2,229 in 2013 to just 1,814 in 2023. This decline in enrollment raises concerns about the college's attractiveness and competitiveness in the higher education market. Various factors could contribute to this trend, including rising tuition costs, demographic shifts, and increased competition from other institutions, both public and private.
Another notable aspect is the retention rate, which has remained relatively stable but shows slight fluctuations, hovering around 81.8% in 2023. A stable retention rate can indicate a positive student experience; however, the declining enrollment figures suggest that the college may need to enhance its recruitment strategies and support services to maintain and grow its student body.
Moreover, the graduation rates have varied, with the on-time graduation rate around 69.1% in 2023. This figure is crucial as it reflects the institution's ability to support students in completing their degrees within the expected timeframe. Increasing graduation rates can positively influence a college's reputation and attract more students.
In conclusion, while Saint Norbert College has maintained a relatively stable retention rate and graduation rate, the significant increase in tuition, coupled with declining enrollment, presents challenges that the college must address to ensure its long-term viability and appeal in a competitive educational landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Milwaukee, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 100 mi
- Also known as
- SNC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Laurie Joyner (President)
- Phone
- 9203373181
- Address
- 100 Grant St, De Pere, WI 54115-2099
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 79.3%, women 80.2%.
Best #90, lowest #132, latest #132 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Saint Norbert College
The admission data from Saint Norbert College over the years reveals significant trends in both male and female acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the male admission rate fluctuated between approximately 74% and 83%, while the female admission rate remained slightly higher, ranging from 80% to 88%. This consistent pattern indicates a stable interest among applicants, but also highlights the institution's commitment to a balanced gender ratio in its student body.
The enrollment numbers show a somewhat static trend, with a peak of 609 students in 2011, followed by a gradual decline in subsequent years, eventually hitting a low of 476 in 2023. The rising number of denied applicants, particularly in recent years, suggests that the college is becoming more selective, which may be influenced by a broader shift in higher education towards prioritizing quality over quantity amidst increasing competition.
Interestingly, the deferment numbers also point to a strategic approach in handling applications, with thousands of students being deferred rather than outright denied. This could reflect an effort to manage enrollment effectively, especially during uncertain times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped college admissions nationwide.
As Saint Norbert College continues to navigate these challenges, the institution's ranking, recently noted to be 93, may encourage further enhancements to its admissions strategy. This could ultimately lead to a more competitive and diverse student body, aligning with national trends in higher education.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 5% submitted SAT, 32% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Saint Norbert College
The admissions data from Saint Norbert College over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test submissions and performance scores. Notably, there is a marked increase in the number of ACT submissions, with a high of 590 submissions in 2013, comprising 98% of the admitted students that year. This trend suggests a growing reliance on the ACT as a favorable metric for assessing student readiness and potential.
In contrast, the SAT submissions have fluctuated significantly in recent years, particularly from 2016 onward. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has varied dramatically, dropping to as low as 2% in some years, indicating a potential shift in the college's admissions strategy or student preferences. For instance, in 2021, only 9% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, which may reflect a broader trend in higher education as many institutions move towards test-optional policies.
Performance scores also show variability, with the 25th to 75th percentile ranges for both SAT and ACT scores suggesting that while some students are achieving higher scores, there are also substantial numbers in the lower ranges. This disparity could indicate a diverse applicant pool with varying academic backgrounds and preparation levels.
The data signals a complex landscape in college admissions, where institutions are re-evaluating the weight of standardized testing in the selection process. As colleges like Saint Norbert adapt to these changes, it will be crucial to understand how these admissions trends affect overall student success and institutional goals in fostering an inclusive and academically capable student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
3,304 applicants in 2025, 85.7% admitted
2,833 admitted 471 not admitted Yield 13.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Theology/Theological Studies · Master's6 (0% international)
- Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Degree Data at Saint Norbert College
The graduate data from Saint Norbert College reveals intriguing trends in various fields of study, particularly in the realm of undergraduate degrees. Biology/Biological Sciences stands out with 49 graduates, making it the most popular major among students. This aligns with broader national trends where life sciences have been gaining traction, possibly due to increasing interest in healthcare careers and environmental issues.
On the other hand, the Business/Commerce program produced 37 graduates, showcasing its sustained appeal in a competitive job market. The integration of business skills is becoming increasingly vital, which may explain its consistent enrollment. Meanwhile, Psychology rounds out the top three with 32 graduates, reflecting a growing societal focus on mental health awareness and the importance of psychological services.
Interestingly, there is a notable absence of graduates in more specialized fields such as Liberal Arts and Sciences, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, and Philosophy, which all recorded zero graduates. This may indicate a shift in student priorities towards more career-oriented programs, as these disciplines often do not provide clear pathways to employment.
Moreover, the data indicates that international students contributed minimally to the graduate numbers, with only a single international graduate in Business and Finance. This trend reflects ongoing challenges in attracting international students, a topic that has gained attention in light of recent geopolitical events and changing immigration policies.
Overall, the data from Saint Norbert College highlights the dynamic nature of educational preferences and the impact of external factors on student choices. As the job market evolves, so too will the programs that attract future graduates.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $52,549 | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $99,757 | ||
| Accounting. | $62,772 | ||
| Finance, General. | $61,752 | ||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||
| Management Science. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $52,354 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,180 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $38,375 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | $58,086 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $48,244 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $40,634 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,497 | ||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $47,497 | ||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $47,497 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | $44,955 | ||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $44,955 | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | $44,955 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $44,660 | ||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $44,660 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $39,390 | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $67,536 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | $45,079 | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $45,079 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Area Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - |
Students
2,032 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 83.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,245
- First-year undergraduates 386
- Graduate students 62
- Transfers and others 339
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,970)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Saint Norbert College in 2023
In 2023, Saint Norbert College showcased a diverse student body with a total enrollment of various categories, including first-year undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer students, and graduate students. The largest group consists of continuing undergraduates, numbering 1,273, followed by first-year undergraduates with 476 students. Transfer students and graduate students are significantly smaller groups, with just 35 and 68 students, respectively.
The gender distribution across these categories reveals interesting trends. First-year undergraduates have a female representation of 56.1%, while continuing undergraduates also exhibit a slightly higher percentage of females at 57.0%. This trend suggests a growing inclination among young women to pursue higher education, aligning with national statistics that indicate increasing female enrollment in colleges and universities.
Diversity within the student population is notable, especially among first-year students, where a substantial majority identifies as White, indicating a predominance of this demographic. While the exact breakdown of other racial and ethnic groups is not provided for the continuing and transfer students, the presence of international students is also acknowledged, highlighting the college's commitment to inclusivity and global perspectives.
Overall, the data reflects broader educational trends in the U.S., where institutions increasingly prioritize gender balance and diversity. As college demographics evolve, it will be crucial for Saint Norbert College to continue fostering an inclusive environment that supports the varied backgrounds and experiences of its students.
Age Composition of Students at Saint Norbert College in 2023
The age composition of students at Saint Norbert College reveals intriguing trends in the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate populations. A significant majority of students fall within the 18-19 age range, with 378 male undergraduates and 509 female undergraduates, highlighting the college's appeal to traditional-age students. This demographic represents approximately 49.5% of the total student body, emphasizing the institution's role in serving younger students transitioning from high school.
The 20-21 age group also shows a strong presence, with 324 male undergraduates and 465 female undergraduates, which constitutes around 35.5% of the total enrollment. This trend is consistent with national statistics indicating a growing number of students entering higher education immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the representation of older students diminishes significantly. For instance, the 22-24 age category includes only 75 total students, while those aged 25-29 and above show even lower numbers, suggesting that Saint Norbert College primarily attracts younger, traditional-aged students.
This demographic profile can be reflective of broader trends in higher education, where many institutions cater to the traditional student population while offering limited resources or programs for non-traditional students. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, Saint Norbert College may need to consider strategies to attract a more diverse age range, including adult learners, to enhance its educational offerings and foster a more inclusive community.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
29 in 2025 · 2.5% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Saint Norbert College
The data on international student enrollment at Saint Norbert College reveals significant trends and fluctuations over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was relatively low, peaking at 5.89% in 2011. However, this figure has seen a general decline in subsequent years, dropping to just 1.98% in 2023. This decline may reflect broader trends in U.S. higher education, where many institutions have faced challenges in attracting international students due to various factors such as changing immigration policies and the global pandemic.
Interestingly, while undergraduate international student numbers have dwindled, the graduate student statistics show a different narrative. Although specific years lack data, the available figures suggest that the presence of international students in graduate programs, albeit limited, is slightly more consistent than in undergraduate programs. For instance, the percentage of international students in graduate programs reached 2.08% in 2019, showcasing a potential area of growth for the institution.
In light of ongoing global events and the increasing competitiveness of higher education markets, it may be crucial for Saint Norbert College to develop targeted recruitment strategies aimed at attracting more international students. This could involve enhancing support services for international students, building partnerships with foreign institutions, and promoting the unique offerings of the college. As the landscape of higher education evolves, colleges must adapt to maintain and grow their international student populations, which are vital for fostering diversity and enriching the campus experience.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$59,584
- Undergraduate tuition
- $45,580
- Room and board
- $14,004
- Graduate tuition
- $12,790
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 59%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$98.5M
Expenses$72.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference
Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 112 | 153 |
| Football | 131 | - |
| Soccer | 31 | 30 |
| Baseball | 58 | - |
| Ice Hockey | 27 | 25 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 23 | 25 |
| Volleyball | 21 | 20 |
| Basketball | 18 | 19 |
| Golf | 17 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Tennis | 9 | 15 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 109 | 129 |
| Football | 134 | - |
| Soccer | 33 | 36 |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 25 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 21 | 24 |
| Volleyball | 22 | 21 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 19 |
| Golf | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 10 | 14 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 128 | 117 |
| Football | 135 | - |
| Soccer | 31 | 34 |
| Ice Hockey | 26 | 25 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 21 | 24 |
| Volleyball | 22 | 19 |
| Basketball | 19 | 19 |
| Golf | 14 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 10 | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Lawrence UniversityAppleton · 20.7 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Concordia University WisconsinMequon · 82.7 mi
U.S. News #299
-
University of Wisconsin--MilwaukeeMilwaukee · 95.0 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Marquette UniversityMilwaukee · 97.4 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison · 115.8 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Beloit CollegeBeloit · 142.5 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest · 152.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Northwestern UniversityEvanston · 166.6 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Loyola University ChicagoChicago · 170.1 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Saint Norbert College:
-
Lawrence University - Ranked 75th in the 2024 US News rankings, Lawrence University is a liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on individualized education and a vibrant campus life.
-
Marquette University - With a rank of 86, Marquette University is a comprehensive university in Milwaukee, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with a commitment to Jesuit values.
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison - This prestigious institution ranks 35th and is known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings. It is a major public university located in Madison, Wisconsin.
-
Beloit College - Ranked 86th, Beloit College is a liberal arts college that emphasizes experiential learning and has a strong commitment to social justice.
-
DePaul University - With a rank of 151, DePaul University in Chicago is recognized for its diverse programs and strong focus on community engagement and service.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and have unique characteristics that contribute to the academic landscape in the region.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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
Crime Trends at Saint Norbert College
The crime statistics from Saint Norbert College over the years present a fluctuating but generally declining trend in crime rates per 1000 students. Notably, the year 2013 recorded a significantly high average of 55.44 incidents per 1000 students, which has decreased substantially in the following years, reaching a low of 14.45 in 2023. This decline in crime rates may reflect improved safety measures, increased awareness, and preventive initiatives undertaken by the college administration and local law enforcement.
The data reveals specific trends in various types of offenses, including arrests related to firearms, drugs, and alcohol. The sharp drop in the average crime rate from 2013 to 2014 could suggest the effectiveness of new policies or programs aimed at enhancing campus security. Interestingly, the years 2018 and 2020 saw slight increases, indicating potential challenges that may have arisen during those periods, possibly influenced by external factors such as societal unrest or public health crises.
The decline in reported incidents could be encouraging for prospective students and their families who prioritize safety in their college selection process. However, it remains critical for the college to continue monitoring these trends and implement ongoing strategies to maintain and further improve campus safety.
For those interested in understanding how the crime rates are calculated, further details are available here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Saint Norbert College include Chris Ayres (Voice actor, director and screenwriter), Tony Wied (U.S. representative for Wisconsin's 8th district) and Spencer Carbery (Head coach of the Washington Capitals).
-
Chris Ayres 1965–2021
Voice actor, director and screenwriter
-
Tony Wied 1976–
U.S. representative for Wisconsin's 8th district
-
Spencer Carbery 1981–
Head coach of the Washington Capitals
-
Terry Meeuwsen 1949–
Co-host of The 700 Club
-
Matt Sloan 1973–
Voice actor, director and Chad Vader co-creator
-
Larisa Hovannisian 1988–
Founder of Teach For Armenia
-
Milo 1992–
Rapper, poet and producer, now R.A.P. Ferreira
-
Jim Schmitt 1958–
Former mayor of Green Bay, Wisconsin
-
Robert John Cornell 1919–2009
Catholic priest and former U.S. representative
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
-
N. Patrick Crooks 1938–2015
Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court
-
Mary Mullarkey 1943–2021
First female chief justice of Colorado Supreme Court
-
James H. Flatley 1906–1958
US Navy vice admiral and World War II naval aviator
-
Dale McKenna 1937–2009
Wisconsin state senator and lawyer
-
William R. Moser 1927–2003
Judge of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals
-
William J. Duffy 1916–2013
Wisconsin circuit court judge
Business
-
Tadashi Yamamoto 1936–2012
Japanese internationalist promoting Japan-US nongovernmental ties
Science and academia
-
Andrew H. Van de Ven 1945–2022
Organization scholar, University of Minnesota professor
-
Benjamin Chu 1932–
Chemist, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Stony Brook
Arts and media
-
Laura Schwartz 1973–
Professional speaker, author and television commentator
-
Vernon Biever 1923–2010
Photographer best known for the Green Bay Packers
Sports
-
Māris Ziediņš 1978–
Latvian ice hockey player
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.