Texas Lutheran University
Acceptance rate
95.7%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$36,230
$48,580 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,319
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
30.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 53.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Texas Lutheran University (TLU) is a prominent private liberal arts university located in Seguin, Texas. Founded in 1891, TLU has a rich history and is affiliated with the Lutheran Church. The university is known for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education that emphasizes both academic excellence and character development. TLU's campus features a vibrant community where students are encouraged to engage with one another and participate in various extracurricular activities, fostering a strong sense of belonging and collaboration.
Academically, Texas Lutheran University offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across multiple disciplines, including business, education, humanities, and sciences. The university prides itself on its small class sizes, which promote personalized attention and close interactions between students and faculty. With a dedicated and experienced faculty, TLU ensures that students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship. Additionally, the university encourages students to participate in research projects and internships, which enhances their practical skills and readiness for the workforce. TLU’s commitment to service and community engagement is evident through various outreach programs, preparing graduates not only for successful careers but also for meaningful contributions to society. With a strong emphasis on character formation, TLU's guiding principles resonate well with students who value both education and ethical leadership.
Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The tuition fees at Texas Lutheran University have shown a consistent upward trend over the years, with both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition rising from $25,890 in 2014 to $34,920 in 2024. This represents a significant increase of approximately 35% over the decade. Such increases in tuition can impact enrollment numbers and student debt levels, prompting prospective students to consider the financial implications of attending private universities like Texas Lutheran.
Another noteworthy aspect is the graduation rates, which indicate a mixed performance. The percentage of undergraduate students graduating on time has improved from about 26% in 2013 to around 37% in 2023. However, this growth is relatively modest, especially when considering the increasing tuition costs. A more concerning trend is the graduation rate at the 150% mark, which has fluctuated slightly but has not shown a consistent upward trajectory, remaining around 55% in recent years. This lack of significant improvement may raise questions about the university's support systems and overall educational effectiveness.
Retention rates tell a similar story, peaking at around 73% in 2020 before declining to approximately 64% in 2023. This decline could be indicative of various challenges students face, including financial burdens, academic pressures, or a lack of engagement. High retention rates are essential for maintaining a robust academic community and ensuring that students can successfully navigate their educational paths without interruption.
In conclusion, while Texas Lutheran University has made strides in improving graduation rates, the rising tuition costs combined with fluctuating retention rates may necessitate a strategic reevaluation of student support services and financial aid opportunities to ensure that students can thrive academically and financially.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- San Antonio, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT), about 30 mi
- Also known as
- TLU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- American Evangelical Lutheran Church
- President
- Dr. Debbie Cottrell (President)
- Phone
- 8303728000
- Address
- 1000 W. Court St, Seguin, TX 78155-5999
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 55.7%, women 55.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Texas Lutheran University's Admissions Trends
The admissions data for Texas Lutheran University over the years reflects significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and the overall competitiveness of the institution. In 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants were relatively high, at approximately 71.45% and 75.27%, respectively. However, a noticeable decline occurred in subsequent years, peaking in 2013 when the male acceptance rate dropped to 47.60% and the female rate to 57.49%. This downward trend indicates a growing selectivity that likely corresponds with an increase in the number of applicants.
Interestingly, the number of students enrolled also shows variability, with a significant drop in enrollment numbers in 2011 and 2013, coinciding with record-high denial figures, suggesting that the university may have been facing challenges in attracting students amid rising competition. The sharp decline in acceptance rates during the years leading up to 2018 reveals a more competitive admissions landscape, which aligns with broader trends in higher education where many institutions are experiencing increased applicant pools.
However, the data takes a positive turn in 2023, where acceptance rates skyrocketed to 90.48% for males and 92.99% for females, indicating a potential strategic shift or a response to changing market conditions in higher education. This could be interpreted as an effort to bolster enrollment following several years of strict admissions criteria. Overall, the trends at Texas Lutheran University illustrate the complex dynamics of college admissions, highlighting how external factors can impact both applicant behavior and institutional strategies.
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
Trends in Admission Test Scores and Submission Rates at Texas Lutheran University
Over the years, Texas Lutheran University has shown a notable evolution in the admission test scores and submission rates for prospective students. The data reveals fluctuating trends in both SAT and ACT performance, indicating shifts in the applicant pool's academic preparedness.
From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has generally declined, dropping from 90% in 2007 to a striking 28% in 2023. This significant decrease could reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, likely influenced by ongoing debates about the fairness and relevance of standardized testing in college admissions.
In terms of score ranges, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have gradually improved over the years, moving from 440 in 2007 to 520 in 2023. This upward trajectory suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, the quality of those who do is increasing, presenting a more competitive admissions environment. The upper range of scores has also shown improvement, indicating that the top-performing students are achieving higher marks, which may enhance the overall academic profile of the incoming class.
The ACT scores, while not as extensively detailed in the data, also reflect similar trends in academic performance. The overall increase in scores suggests a positive shift in the academic preparedness of students at Texas Lutheran University. This evolving landscape may require the university to adapt its recruitment strategies to attract a diverse and high-achieving student body in the coming years. Overall, these trends highlight not only the changing dynamics of college admissions but also broader shifts in educational values and priorities.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
2,306 applicants in 2025, 95.7% admitted
2,207 admitted 99 not admitted Yield 16.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's29 (3% international)
- Accounting · Master's8 (0% international)
- Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision · Master's6 (0% international)
- Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's6 (0% international)
- Business Statistics · Master's4 (0% international)
- Mathematics and Computer Science · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduating Majors at Texas Lutheran University in 2023
The graduation statistics for Texas Lutheran University in 2023 reveal significant trends within various academic disciplines. Notably, the largest number of graduates emerged from the Registered Nursing program, with 105 bachelor’s degrees conferred. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which heightened awareness of the critical role nurses play in public health.
In contrast, the Business Administration program also demonstrated a solid output with 78 bachelor's degrees awarded, showcasing its popularity among students aiming for versatile career paths in the business sector. Interestingly, the university recorded a total of 16 graduates in Business Statistics at the master’s level, indicating a growing interest in data-driven decision-making, which is crucial in today's business landscape.
On the other hand, programs such as Exercise Science and Kinesiology, Psychology, and Biology saw modest graduation numbers, which could reflect either lower enrollment or a higher level of selectivity in these fields. The absence of international students graduating in many programs suggests a potential area for growth, especially as institutions increasingly seek to diversify their student bodies.
The data also highlights the lack of advanced degree graduates in several areas, with only a few master’s degrees awarded, particularly in Educational Instructional and Curriculum Supervision. This could indicate either a gap in graduate program offerings or a need for enhanced marketing to attract students to advanced studies.
Overall, Texas Lutheran University demonstrates a robust output in nursing and business disciplines, while other fields present opportunities for growth and development, especially in attracting international students and expanding graduate offerings.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,805 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,130 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | ||
| Business Statistics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $41,748 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | $53,069 | ||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $53,069 | ||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $53,069 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $39,400 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $40,980 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||
| Mathematics and Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Physics/Applied Physics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Theology/Pre-Ministerial Studies. | - |
Students
1,423 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 61.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 889
- First-year undergraduates 370
- Graduate students 104
- Transfers and others 60
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,319)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights at Texas Lutheran University in 2023
Texas Lutheran University presents a diverse student body in 2023, particularly notable in the composition of undergraduate freshmen, who exhibit a robust male demographic at approximately 56.7%, contrasted with a 43.3% female representation. This gender distribution indicates a slight male majority among new students, which is reflective of broader trends observed in many universities across the United States, where STEM fields tend to attract more male students.
For undergraduate upperclassmen, the gender ratio shifts, showing a higher representation of female students at 55.1%, with males comprising 44.9%. This trend suggests a growing inclination among women to pursue and complete their undergraduate degrees, aligning with national statistics that indicate an increasing number of women in higher education.
The transfer student group maintains a relatively balanced gender ratio, with males at 46% and females at 54%. However, the graduate student demographic is strikingly female-dominated, with an overwhelming 90% representation. This significant disparity highlights the increasing participation of women in graduate studies, particularly in fields traditionally seen as male-oriented.
Regarding racial and ethnic diversity, the data indicates a variety of backgrounds within the student population, though detailed figures for the breakdown are not available. The presence of underrepresented minorities and international students is crucial in fostering a rich educational environment, enhancing cultural exchanges, and preparing students for a globalized workforce.
Overall, Texas Lutheran University reflects a microcosm of contemporary educational trends, revealing shifts in gender dynamics and a commitment to diversity, which are essential for nurturing an inclusive academic atmosphere.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Texas Lutheran University
The age distribution of students at Texas Lutheran University reveals insightful trends about the demographics of the student body. The most notable observation is the predominance of younger students, particularly those aged 18-19, who make up a significant portion of the undergraduate population. This reflects a broader trend in higher education, where traditional college-aged students are increasingly enrolling immediately after high school.
The data shows that among undergraduates, there are 266 male students and 279 female students within the 18-19 age bracket, indicating a balanced gender ratio at this level. This trend continues in the 20-21 age group, where the total number of students remains high, suggesting that the university attracts a steady inflow of students in their early twenties.
As we move into older age categories, the numbers begin to dwindle significantly. For instance, only 91 students fall within the 22-24 age group, and this decreases further for those aged 25-29 and above. The sharp decline in enrollment for older age groups could suggest that the university primarily caters to younger students, possibly due to its curriculum and support systems tailored for traditional undergraduates.
Additionally, the lack of graduate students in the younger age categories contrasts with the higher numbers in the 22-24 range. This aligns with the norm that many students pursue graduate studies after gaining some professional experience or furthering their education later in life.
Overall, the age composition at Texas Lutheran University underscores the institution's appeal to younger students while also highlighting the challenges of attracting older students or those seeking advanced degrees. As universities adapt to changing demographics, understanding these patterns will be essential for future recruitment strategies.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Texas Lutheran University
The data regarding international students at Texas Lutheran University over the years reflects a concerning trend. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has experienced a significant decline. In 2004, there were 27 international undergraduates, constituting 1.91% of the total undergraduate population. However, by 2023, this number had dropped to just 2 students, representing a mere 0.15% of the undergraduate body. This sharp decrease indicates potential challenges the university may be facing in attracting and retaining international students.
In contrast, the data for graduate students shows a more erratic pattern. While there were instances of increased enrollment, such as in 2014 with 12 international graduate students, overall trends remain inconclusive due to the lack of data in recent years. The percentage of international graduate students also fluctuated considerably, peaking at 6.25% in 2017 but dropping to 2.27% in 2021.
This situation may be attributed to various factors, including changing immigration policies, global events affecting student mobility, and competition from other institutions. The decline in international student enrollment is concerning, as these students often contribute to the diversity and global perspective of the academic environment. Moreover, their presence significantly impacts the financial health of universities. As higher education institutions face increased competition globally, it is crucial for Texas Lutheran University to strategize and enhance its appeal to international students to reverse this trend.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$48,580
- Undergraduate tuition
- $36,230
- Room and board
- $12,350
- Graduate tuition
- $36,230
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 32%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$54.1M
Expenses$49.7M
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 · Other · Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 169 | - |
| Soccer | 54 | 28 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 42 | 34 |
| Baseball | 51 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 21 |
| Softball | - | 31 |
| Other Sports | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 14 | 6 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 9 |
| Tennis | 10 | 7 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 173 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 53 | 49 |
| Soccer | 51 | 28 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 19 |
| Softball | - | 32 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 19 |
| Tennis | 16 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 8 | 5 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 127 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 47 | 38 |
| Soccer | 47 | 28 |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 18 |
| Tennis | 19 | 10 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Other Sports | - | 12 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos · 21.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Trinity UniversitySan Antonio · 31.0 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
University of Texas-San AntonioSan Antonio · 38.3 mi
U.S. News #227
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 51.2 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 75.7 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 122.1 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 145.7 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Rice UniversityHouston · 155.3 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 155.9 mi
U.S. News #202
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Texas Lutheran University:
-
Texas State University - Ranked 280 in the 2024 US News rankings, Texas State is a comprehensive university known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Trinity University - This liberal arts college ranks 59th in the 2024 US News rankings. Trinity University is recognized for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and beautiful campus.
-
The University of Texas at Austin - With a ranking of 32, UT Austin is one of the leading public universities in the United States, offering a wide range of programs and research opportunities.
-
Rice University - A prestigious institution ranked 17th, Rice is known for its rigorous academics, strong research programs, and small student-to-faculty ratio.
-
Baylor University - Ranked 93rd, Baylor is a private Christian university offering a comprehensive education with a focus on ethical leadership and service.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station - This institution is ranked 47th and is renowned for its research contributions and strong traditions.
-
Southern Methodist University - SMU ranks 89th and is known for its strong business and law programs, alongside a vibrant campus culture.
These institutions provide various educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
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
Analysis of Crime Data at Texas Lutheran University
The crime rates at Texas Lutheran University over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend that raises concerns about campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students varied significantly, peaking in 2015 with 25.15 incidents, which translates to approximately 2.5%. This spike may reflect various influencing factors, including increased campus awareness or changes in reporting practices.
Notably, 2019 recorded the lowest crime rate at 8.32 incidents per 1,000 students, around 0.83%. This decline could suggest improvements in safety measures or a decrease in criminal activities on campus. However, the following years show rising crime rates again, culminating in 2022 with a rate of 17.85 incidents per 1,000 students, roughly 1.78%.
Among the specific crimes, incidents of drug arrests and alcohol-related offenses appear to be notable contributors to the overall crime statistics. The rise in 2022 could be attributed to an increase in reporting or changes in student behavior, potentially influenced by external societal factors, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student life and mental health.
Overall, while the data shows some years of lower crime rates, the recent increases warrant continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure a safe learning environment for students. Institutions like Texas Lutheran University must remain vigilant and responsive to trends in campus crime to foster a secure educational atmosphere. For more detailed discussions on crime rate calculations, refer to this link: 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.