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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

Mercedita, Puerto Rico · ponce.inter.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

33.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$5,780

$14,278 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

2,436

Student-faculty ratio 22:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

10.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 28.6%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce, known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and community service, is a prominent institution in the region. Established in 1975, the Ponce campus is part of a larger university system that emphasizes a holistic education experience. The university's motto, "Ad Astra," which translates to "To the Stars," reflects its aspiration to inspire students to achieve their highest potential. The campus offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a particular focus on areas such as business administration, social sciences, and health sciences. This diversity in programs prepares students for various career paths and enhances their employability in a dynamic job market.

The campus is characterized by a vibrant student life, fostering a sense of community and belonging among its students. With various clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to engage and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. The university also prides itself on its modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, which support both academic and personal growth. Additionally, the faculty at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce is composed of dedicated professionals who are committed to mentoring students and contributing to their academic journeys. This supportive environment, coupled with a strong emphasis on cultural values and community involvement, makes the university an ideal place for students to thrive academically and socially.

Analysis of Key Trends at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduates has seen a significant increase from $4,674 in 2014 to $5,580 in 2023, marking a rise of approximately 19%. This upward trend in tuition costs is consistent with a broader national trend observed in higher education, where rising operational costs often result in increased tuition fees, placing a heavier financial burden on students and families.

In terms of enrollment, the institution has experienced a decline in undergraduate student numbers, dropping from 5,575 in 2013 to just 2,779 in 2023. This decline of nearly 50% raises concerns regarding the university's appeal and the overall demographic trends within the region. Such a steep decrease could be attributed to various factors, including competition from other institutions, changing student preferences, or socio-economic challenges faced by potential students.

Graduation rates have also fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from approximately 7.1% in 2013 to 10.1% in 2023. While this is an improvement, it remains relatively low compared to national averages, indicating that the institution may need to invest more in student support services to enhance student success and retention.

Finally, retention rates have seen a decline from 71.4% in 2013 to 70.6% in 2023, reflecting potential issues in student satisfaction or engagement. Overall, these trends suggest that while the university has managed to improve graduation rates slightly, significant challenges remain in terms of attracting and retaining students amidst rising tuition costs. Addressing these issues will be critical for the university's future sustainability and growth.

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
San Juan, about 45 mi
Nearest international airport
Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), about 50 mi
Mercedita, Puerto Rico
Also known as
Inter Ponce
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Víctor A. Feliberty-Ruberte (Chancellor)
Phone
78728419122054
City
Mercedita, Puerto Rico
Address
104 Turpeaux Industrial Park Rd1, Mercedita, PR 00715-1602

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
40.5%
Women
37.8%

In 2020: men 37.3%, women 30.0%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

The admission data from Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce reveals significant trends over the years, particularly concerning acceptance rates for male and female applicants, enrollment numbers, and the overall competitiveness of the institution.
From 2009 to 2023, the male acceptance rate varied significantly, peaking at approximately 68.9% in 2022 and dropping to around 31.3% in 2019. This fluctuation indicates that the university has experienced varying levels of competitiveness in its admissions process, which could be influenced by external factors such as changes in application volumes or shifts in institutional priorities. The female acceptance rate also showed variability but remained consistently higher than that of male applicants, with a low of about 25% in 2019 and a high of nearly 90% in 2009. This gender disparity in acceptance rates raises questions about the institution's recruitment strategies and the need for a balanced approach to admissions.
Enrollment numbers have also fluctuated, with a notable decrease in 2021, where only 546 students were admitted, compared to over 1,100 in earlier years. This decline could reflect broader trends in higher education, including demographic shifts or economic factors influencing students' decisions to pursue higher education.
Additionally, the number of students who were denied admission has remained significant, particularly in years where overall enrollment was high, indicating a competitive admission environment. The number of deferrals was relatively low in most years, suggesting that those who were accepted generally chose to enroll rather than defer their admission.
In conclusion, the trends in admissions at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce highlight the complexities of maintaining a diverse and balanced student body amidst fluctuating acceptance rates and enrollment figures. This data serves as a valuable resource for understanding the evolving landscape of higher education in Puerto Rico.

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

Computer Science#502▼32
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

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 Admission Data Trends

The admission data from Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce over the years shows a consistent lack of reported scores for both SAT and ACT assessments, indicating a potential shift in how the institution approaches standardized testing. This absence of data may reflect a growing trend among many universities to adopt test-optional policies, allowing applicants to decide whether to submit their test scores based on their individual circumstances.

The rising movement towards holistic admissions processes aims to consider a broader range of applicant qualities beyond standardized test results, such as extracurricular involvement, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. This shift is especially relevant in the context of recent discussions on educational equity and access, where standardized tests have been scrutinized for their potential biases against disadvantaged groups.

Moreover, the absence of submission percentages for standardized testing in recent years could also suggest that the university is focusing on attracting a diverse student body, while potentially alleviating the pressure on students who may not perform well on standardized exams. This aligns with national trends where institutions are increasingly recognizing the limitations of standardized tests as predictors of college success.

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, monitoring how institutions like Inter American University adapt their admissions strategies will be essential to understanding broader educational trends and their implications for student access and equity.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 3 in 10

1,251 applicants in 2025, 33.7% admitted

422 admitted 829 not admitted Yield 84.6%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1580 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's3600 international (0.0%)
Master's610 international (0.0%)
Doctoral320 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
40
Biomedical Sciences, General
33
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
27
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General
26
Accounting
24
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
23
Computer Science
21
Criminalistics and Criminal Science
17
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
16
Microbiology, General
14

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Education, Other · Doctoral24 (0% international)
  • Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General · Master's12 (0% international)
  • Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Educational/Instructional Technology · Master's4 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Degree Graduates at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

In the 2023 graduation data from the Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce, a notable trend emerges in the distribution of graduates across various fields of study. The largest number of bachelor's degree graduates was recorded in Psychology, with 47 graduates, followed closely by Criminal Justice/Safety Studies with 45 graduates. This reflects a strong interest in psychology and law enforcement fields, which are increasingly relevant in today’s society due to rising mental health awareness and public safety concerns.

Interestingly, the university produced a significant number of master's degree graduates in Office Management and Supervision, totaling 17. This indicates a focus on administrative and managerial skills, which are essential in a rapidly changing job market. Moreover, the data shows a growing trend in healthcare-related fields, with graduates in Registered Nursing and Cardiovascular Technology highlighting the critical demand for healthcare professionals.

The presence of international students is relatively low, with no graduates in bachelor's or master's programs from abroad, suggesting a potential area for growth in recruiting international scholars. This could enhance diversity and broaden the educational experience for all students.

Overall, the data reveals a strong emphasis on psychology, criminal justice, and healthcare programs, aligning with current societal needs. The trends suggest that the university is well-positioned to respond to workforce demands while also indicating opportunities for increased international engagement.

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

Businesshas 184 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$32,175
Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management.$32,175
Office Management and Supervision.$32,175
Operations Management and Supervision.$32,175
Retail Management.$32,175
Organizational Leadership.$32,175
Accounting.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Finance, General.-
Finance and Financial Management Services, Other.-
Hotel/Motel Administration/Management.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.$36,417-$36,641
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$24,528
International Marketing.$24,528
General Merchandising, Sales, and Related Marketing Operations, Other.-
Health professionshas 158 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.$11,403
Occupational Therapist Assistant.$11,071
Pharmacy Technician/Assistant.$11,071
Physical Therapy Assistant.$11,071
Medical Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiation Therapist.-
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.-
Optometric Technician/Assistant.-
Health Services Administration.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.-
Biologyhas 64 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$21,921
Biomedical Sciences, General.$21,921
Microbiology, General.-
Biotechnology.-
Homeland security has 55 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$36,131
Criminal Justice/Police Science.$36,131
Criminalistics and Criminal Science.-
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Educationhas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Educational/Instructional Technology.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals with Autism.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Biology Teacher Education.$36,073
Spanish Language Teacher Education.$36,073
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.-
Education, Other.$64,097
Psychology has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$30,317
Computer and information sciencehas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.-
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Communication has 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
Public Relations/Image Management.-
Science technologies has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Science Technologies/Technicians, General.-
Foreign languages has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services, Other.-
Physical scienceshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, Other.-
Natural resources has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Science.-

Students

2,925 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 68.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,436)

Hispanic
2,426 · 99.6%
White
6 · 0.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.1%
18–19
23.6%
20–21
24.5%
22–24
21.8%
25 and over
28.9%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.2%
22–24
3.9%
25–29
10.8%
30–34
14.3%
35 and over
70.8%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce in 2023

The student population at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce showcases a diverse and predominantly female demographic. In the 2023 academic year, the total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 505, with a gender ratio of 37% male and 63% female. This trend continues among the undergraduate continuing students, where the male representation is slightly lower at 36%, contrasted with a significant 64% female presence among 2,102 students.

The transfer student category comprises 145 individuals, with 33.8% being male and 66.2% female, indicating a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across all undergraduate levels. The graduate student body, consisting of 488 students, exhibits the lowest male representation at 30.9%, while females dominate the population at 69.1%.

Interestingly, the data related to the ethnic composition of these students is limited, but it is noteworthy that there are no reported white students among the undergraduate freshmen or transfer students. This raises questions regarding the diversity and inclusivity of the university and its appeal to various demographic groups.

Overall, the gender disparity in favor of female students reflects broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly outnumbering men in college enrollment. As institutions continue to evolve, it is essential for universities to address these disparities and ensure equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of gender or ethnicity.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

The age composition of students at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce reveals significant trends that reflect broader educational demographics. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 264 male undergraduates and 447 female undergraduates, indicating a strong female presence at this institution, with females making up approximately 63% of the undergraduate population in this age bracket.

As we progress through the age categories, the number of male students tends to decline, while the female enrollment remains relatively stable. For instance, in the 20-21 age group, 282 males are enrolled compared to 432 females, maintaining the trend of a higher female-to-male ratio. This trend continues through to the 22-24 age group, where there is a notable representation of females in graduate programs as well, especially among the 40-49 age group, where the number of female graduate students (109) exceeds that of their male counterparts (45).

Interestingly, the younger demographics (<18 and 18-19) show a vibrant mix of students entering higher education, which may be indicative of a cultural shift in Puerto Rico that encourages education among younger populations. Conversely, the data reveals a decline in enrollment for those aged 30 and above, suggesting potential barriers or life commitments that hinder older individuals from pursuing education.

Overall, the data reflects an encouraging trend towards gender diversity in higher education at Inter American University, particularly in the younger age brackets. This institution appears to be fostering an environment that attracts a larger number of female students, which could be pivotal for the future workforce in Puerto Rico and the broader Caribbean region.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Data at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

The absence of data regarding international students at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce raises significant concerns about the institution's ability to attract and retain a diverse student body. In recent years, many universities worldwide have recognized the importance of international students not only for enhancing cultural exchange but also for contributing to the academic environment and local economies.

Typically, institutions with a robust international student presence benefit from increased tuition revenue and a more vibrant campus life. For example, in the United States, international students contribute over $40 billion annually to the economy. The lack of reported data may suggest a potential decline in international enrollment, which could impact the university's funding and diversity.

Moreover, given the current global climate, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, many universities are reassessing their recruitment strategies to ensure they remain competitive. Institutions that actively engage with international students are often seen as more attractive options for prospective students, influencing their decision-making processes.

In light of this, it is crucial for the Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce to prioritize the collection and analysis of data related to international students. By doing so, they can better understand trends, address challenges, and implement strategies that enhance their appeal to a global audience, ultimately enriching their academic community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$14,278

Undergraduate tuition
$5,780
Room and board
$8,498
Graduate tuition
$3,536
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 16% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -42%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$23.0M

Tuition and fees
$17.2M75.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.9M17.1%
Government grants and contracts
$1.8M7.6%
Gifts and private grants
$71K0.3%

Expenses$21.8M

Instruction
$10.7M49.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.9M17.8%
Academic support
$2.7M12.3%
Institutional support
$2.6M12.0%
Student services
$1.9M8.9%

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.

All faculty
$50,279peers $65,931
Professor
$64,050peers $77,501
Associate professor
$54,526peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$43,259peers $61,725
Instructor
$35,672peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes Other

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce:

  1. University of Miami - Ranked 67th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs.

  2. Florida International University - Holding the 124th spot, this university offers a diverse range of programs and a large student body, emphasizing research and community engagement.

  3. University of Florida - With a rank of 28, it is one of the premier public universities in the U.S., known for its rigorous academic programs and extensive research initiatives.

  4. Florida State University - Ranked 53rd, this university is recognized for its comprehensive academic offerings and strong emphasis on research and public service.

  5. University of South Florida - This university, ranked 89th, is known for its commitment to research and community outreach, offering a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  6. University of North Carolina Wilmington - With a rank of 201, this institution is famous for its focus on undergraduate education and its beautiful coastal campus.

These universities provide excellent educational opportunities and contribute to the vibrant academic environment in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

The crime statistics from Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Ponce over the past decade reveal a significant decline in reported incidents. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 0.50%, which marked the highest frequency of recorded offenses during this period. However, this figure has progressively decreased, culminating in zero reported crimes from 2018 onwards.

The most frequent offense type reported was gun-related arrests, which appeared sporadically across the years. Notably, the data indicates that the university has managed to foster a safer environment, as evidenced by the consistent drop in the average crime rate, particularly in the last five years where no incidents were reported.

This trend mirrors broader national movements towards enhancing campus safety through increased security measures and community engagement programs. The recent focus on mental health and well-being, alongside preventive policing strategies, has likely contributed to these positive outcomes.

Overall, the university's efforts seem to have paid off, with an impressive safety record that reflects a commitment to student welfare. As we look at these statistics, it is encouraging to see such a marked improvement in campus safety, which is essential for fostering an optimal learning environment. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further details can be found at: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

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.