Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
Acceptance rate
99.2%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$6,550
$14,845 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
581
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
3.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 33.7%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, known in Spanish as Universidad Católica Pontificia de Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, is a prominent institution of higher education located in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. Founded in 1940, this university is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, spiritual development, and community service. The institution offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, and business. One of the university's defining characteristics is its adherence to Catholic values, which permeates its educational philosophy and community life. The university's motto, "Veritas et Caritas," reflects its dedication to truth and charity, guiding students toward personal and academic integrity.
The campus boasts modern facilities that enhance the student experience, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational areas. In addition to academics, the university promotes a vibrant campus culture, encouraging student participation in various extracurricular activities, sports, and community service initiatives. The institution also emphasizes the importance of research and innovation, with faculty members actively engaged in scholarly projects that contribute to local and global knowledge. Graduates from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez are well-prepared for the job market, often finding employment in their respective fields due to the university's strong reputation and extensive network of alumni. Notable alumni have made significant contributions in various sectors, further showcasing the university's impact on society. Overall, the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez stands out as a leading educational institution that nurtures both academic and moral development in its students.
Analysis of Key Trends at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The tuition fees at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez have steadily increased over the years. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition rose from $4,738 to $6,238, marking a significant increase of approximately 31.5%. This rise in tuition can pose a financial burden on students and their families, potentially affecting enrollment numbers and the overall accessibility of higher education.
In tandem with rising tuition, the student enrollment numbers have witnessed a dramatic decline. The undergraduate student body decreased from 1,422 in 2013 to just 659 in 2023, representing a staggering drop of nearly 53.7%. Such a decline in enrollment may correlate with the increasing financial pressures imposed by tuition hikes, suggesting that the university may need to reevaluate its pricing strategies and financial support systems to retain and attract students.
Additionally, graduation rates have presented a concerning trend. The percentage of students graduating on time (within 100% of the normal time) remained extremely low, hovering around 1-2% in recent years. Even the extended graduation rate (150% of normal time) only reached about 30% in 2023. These figures raise questions about the university's support systems and academic resources available to students, as low graduation rates can affect the institution's reputation and future enrollment.
Lastly, retention rates have shown some fluctuations but have remained relatively stable, averaging around 70% in recent years. This indicates that while students may be facing challenges, those who do enroll are somewhat satisfied with their experience at the university. However, the retention rate must be coupled with improving graduation outcomes to ensure that students not only remain enrolled but successfully complete their degrees.
In summary, while the university continues to face challenges with rising tuition, declining enrollment, and low graduation rates, it has maintained a relatively stable retention rate. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and success.
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- San Juan, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), about 80 mi
- Also known as
- PUCPR-Mayaguez
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Yaira S. Ortiz Medina (Rector)
- Phone
- 78783451515027
- City
- Mayaguez, Puerto Rico
- Address
- 482 Sur Calle Ramon Emerito Betances, Mayaguez, PR 00680-1713
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 96.4%, women 98.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Rates and Trends at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The admission statistics for Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez reflect an intriguing evolution over the years. Starting from a very high acceptance rate of 95% for males and 96% for females in 2009, the university saw fluctuations in these figures, peaking again in recent years. Particularly notable is the dramatic drop in acceptance rates in 2012, where the male acceptance rate fell to 41.6%, indicating a possible shift in admission policies or an increase in applicant quality or quantity.
The enrollment numbers also reveal significant changes. After enrolling 245 students in 2009, the university experienced a gradual decrease in enrollment until 2014, when it hit a low of 184. This trend reversed in subsequent years, culminating in a peak enrollment of 260 in 2017.
The denial figures paint a stark picture, especially in 2013 and 2014, where the number of applicants denied soared, suggesting a highly competitive environment. From 2018 onwards, acceptance rates stabilized, with near-perfect rates for some years, indicating either a strategic shift to attract more students or a more inclusive admission strategy.
Overall, these trends suggest that while the university faced challenges in maintaining consistent acceptance rates and enrollment numbers, it has adapted over the years to create a more balanced admission landscape, reflecting broader trends in higher education where competition and applicant quality continue to evolve.
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 Standardized Test Scores at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The data regarding standardized test scores at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez provides a consistent view of the admissions landscape over the years. Notably, the university has maintained a high percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, with 84% of admitted students providing their results since 2008, indicating a strong reliance on standardized testing for admission decisions.
Examining the SAT reading and math sections, the 25th percentile begins at a score of 379, while the 75th percentile reaches 502. This range suggests that the university attracts a diverse pool of applicants, with some students demonstrating considerable proficiency in these areas. The fact that the 75th percentile score is significantly higher than the 25th percentile indicates that while there are students who may struggle with the SAT, there are also high achievers who excel.
In the broader context, the emphasis on standardized testing has been a topic of debate in higher education. Many institutions are reevaluating their admissions policies, considering the equity implications of relying heavily on test scores, particularly as disparities in access to resources for test preparation can affect outcomes. Despite this discourse, the stability in the submission rates at this university suggests a commitment to traditional evaluation metrics.
Overall, while the consistent data highlights academic standards, it also opens up discussions about the future of admissions practices in higher education, especially in the wake of the growing trend towards test-optional policies across many universities.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
604 applicants in 2025, 99.2% admitted
599 admitted 5 not admitted Yield 15.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Clinical/Medical Social Work · Master's8 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's6 (0% international)
- Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General · Master's5 (0% international)
- Science/Technology Management · Master's2 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's1 (0% international)
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The graduation data from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez reveals some interesting insights into academic trends and preferences among students. Notably, the field of Biomedical Sciences has the highest number of graduates at the bachelor's level, with 20 students completing their degrees. This aligns with the growing global demand for professionals in the healthcare and biotechnology sectors, emphasizing the increasing relevance of this discipline.
In contrast, the Social Work field, while significant, produced only a modest number of graduates, highlighting the challenges and possibly the stigma associated with this profession. The absence of international students in most programs, particularly in fields like Liberal Arts and Sciences, suggests that the university may have room for improvement in attracting a diverse student body, which is essential for enriching the academic experience and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Interestingly, the university produced graduates in more specialized programs such as Forensic Psychology and various educational fields, reflecting the institution's commitment to providing a well-rounded education that meets the needs of the community. However, the limited output in advanced degrees, particularly in master's and doctoral programs, indicates potential growth opportunities for the university to enhance its graduate programs and research initiatives.
Lastly, the presence of associate graduates in practical fields like Culinary Arts and Pharmacy Technology suggests a healthy vocational education stream, catering to immediate job market needs. As the university continues to adapt to evolving educational demands, increasing focus on international outreach, practical applications, and advanced degree offerings will be critical in maintaining its competitive edge in higher education.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Insurance Specialist/Medical Biller. | - | |||
| Pharmacy Technician/Assistant. | - | |||
| Clinical/Medical Social Work. | $25,726 | |||
| Optometric Technician/Assistant. | - | |||
| Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $13,482 | |||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | $13,482 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Science/Technology Management. | - | |||
| Auditing. | $32,244 | |||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | $32,244 | |||
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | |||
| Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies. | - | |||
| Hotel/Motel Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $28,654 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $20,142 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $22,648 | |||
| Forensic Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $17,595-$31,207 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Law Enforcement Investigation and Interviewing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
Students
679 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 78.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 433
- First-year undergraduates 89
- Graduate students 98
- Transfers and others 59
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (581)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Diversity and Gender Representation at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The student demographics at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez in 2023 reveal significant insights into both diversity and gender representation. Among the undergraduate new students, there are 111 individuals, with a gender distribution showing 38.7% males and 61.3% females. This notable female majority aligns with broader trends observed in many higher education institutions, where women are increasingly outpacing men in enrollment numbers.
The undergraduate continuing students consist of 498 individuals, again reflecting a similar gender trend, with males constituting 33.5% and females 66.5%. This trend is not just limited to undergraduates; the graduate student population of 66 also displays a significant gender imbalance, with only 22.7% males and a striking 77.3% females enrolled. This gender disparity raises questions about the factors influencing these enrollment patterns, including societal expectations and support systems for women in higher education.
In addition to gender representation, the data does not provide specific insights into racial and ethnic diversity within the student body, as information regarding different racial groups is absent. However, the presence of a diverse and predominantly female student body suggests a progressive environment that may foster inclusivity and support for minority groups.
In summary, the demographics at the university highlight a strong female presence across various student categories, which is an encouraging sign of gender equity in education. Yet, further examination of racial and ethnic diversity would be necessary to paint a complete picture of the university's commitment to inclusivity.
Age Composition of Students at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The age distribution of students at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez reveals interesting trends in demographic engagement. The data indicates a significant concentration of younger students, particularly those aged 18-21, comprising 55% of the total student body. This aligns with broader trends observed in higher education institutions where younger populations tend to dominate enrollment figures, reflecting the traditional pathway of students transitioning directly from high school to college.
In terms of gender representation, female students outnumber male students in the undergraduate category, accounting for approximately 66% of undergraduates aged 18-21. This gender disparity is noteworthy, as it highlights a continuing trend in many universities where female enrollment surpasses male enrollment. However, the graduate level shows a more balanced gender distribution, particularly among individuals aged 25-29, where female graduate students lead with 16 compared to 4 male students in the same age category.
The data also indicates a small but notable presence of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, which can be indicative of the growing trend of non-traditional students returning to education later in life. This demographic shift is essential as it diversifies the classroom experience and enriches peer learning.
Overall, the age and gender composition at the university reflect broader societal trends in education, including the increasing accessibility of higher education for women and the emergence of non-traditional students seeking to advance their education and career prospects. These factors will likely continue to shape the future landscape of higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
1 in 2025 · 0.1% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The data on international students at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez presents a mixed picture over the years analyzed. From 2014 to 2021, the number of undergraduate students varied, with total enrollment peaking in 2017 at 1,462 students. However, the presence of international students remained remarkably low, consistently accounting for only 0.07% of the undergraduate population, with just one international student reported each year during this period.
For graduate students, the situation appears somewhat more favorable. Although total graduate enrollment fluctuated, the percentage of international students increased significantly, particularly in the years where data is available. For instance, in 2015, 2016, and 2017, the international student representation in graduate programs hovered around 0.83% to 0.88%, showcasing a more substantial engagement by international scholars in advanced studies.
The latest data from 2021 indicates a decrease in overall student enrollment, with only 902 undergraduates, but a notable increase in the proportion of international students in graduate programs, reaching 1.06%. This may reflect broader trends in global higher education, where universities are increasingly appealing to international students for graduate studies, possibly due to a wider range of research opportunities or specialized programs.
In summary, while the university's undergraduate international enrollment remains exceedingly low, the graduate programs show a more promising trend. This highlights the need for the institution to enhance its strategies to attract more international students, especially at the undergraduate level, to foster a more diverse academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$14,845
- Undergraduate tuition
- $6,550
- Room and board
- $8,295
- Graduate tuition
- $7,125
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 37%.
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 · EADA
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 Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez:
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University of Florida - Ranked 28, this prestigious university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
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University of Miami - With a rank of 67, the University of Miami is renowned for its vibrant campus life and comprehensive range of programs, especially in health and business.
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Florida State University - Ranked 53, it is recognized for its commitment to research and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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University of Central Florida - This university, with a rank of 124, is known for its innovative programs and one of the largest student bodies in the nation.
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Florida International University - Ranked 124, it is noted for its research initiatives and commitment to serving a diverse student population.
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University of South Florida - With a rank of 89, USF is known for its strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
These institutions not only offer a variety of academic programs but also contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the region.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
The crime statistics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez reveal a consistent pattern of zero recorded incidents from 2013 to 2023. This absence of crime may reflect positively on the university's safety protocols, campus security measures, and the community's overall commitment to maintaining a safe environment for students.
Despite the increasing concerns regarding campus safety across many universities in the United States and globally, which often highlight issues such as gun-related arrests, drug-related offenses, and domestic violence, this institution has managed to report no recorded incidents. This could be attributed to a combination of effective preventive measures, active engagement of campus safety resources, and a supportive community atmosphere.
In the context of recent events—such as the rise in discussions around campus safety following various incidents at educational institutions—this data is particularly noteworthy. It suggests that the university is a safe space for students, potentially influencing enrollment and retention positively.
Moreover, the university may also benefit from promoting this low crime rate in its communications and marketing strategies. However, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining this track record, as safety is a critical factor for prospective students and their families.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
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.