The University of Mary, located in Bismarck, North Dakota, is a private Catholic university known for its commitment to providing a holistic education grounded in the Catholic faith and liberal arts traditions. Established in 1959, the university’s mission emphasizes the development of the whole person, preparing students not only for professional success but also for personal growth and ethical leadership. The university adopts the motto "In Faith and Service," reflecting its dedication to service-oriented education and community engagement.

The campus culture at the University of Mary is vibrant and inviting, characterized by a strong sense of community and camaraderie among students. The university's facilities support a well-rounded student experience, featuring modern academic buildings, state-of-the-art athletic facilities, and comfortable residence halls. Students have access to a variety of extracurricular activities, which include numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. The commitment to physical wellness is evident in the university's sports teams, known as the Marauders, which compete in NCAA Division II athletics. Graduates of the University of Mary find a supportive network and favorable employment opportunities, as the university emphasizes experiential learning and career readiness, ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in their chosen fields.

Analysis of Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at University of Mary

The University of Mary has seen a consistent increase in its tuition fees over the years, with undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $14,730 in 2014 to $21,468 in 2024. This 46% increase in just a decade highlights the growing financial pressures facing students and their families. Such rises could deter prospective students, especially amid current economic conditions where student debt is a significant concern nationwide.

Interestingly, while tuition has increased, graduation rates have shown an encouraging trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates improved from about 26% in 2014 to around 51% in 2024. This improvement suggests effective academic support and resources for students, potentially enhancing the value of the investment in education at the University of Mary. The significant jumps in graduation rates may signal the institution's commitment to providing a supportive learning environment, particularly critical as funding and resources for higher education become increasingly competitive.

In addition to graduation rates, student retention is a crucial factor for academic success, and the University of Mary has seen fluctuations with a noticeable uptick in recent years. Retention rates improved from approximately 71% in 2014 to about 83% by 2024. Higher retention rates often correlate with increased student satisfaction and well-being, which are essential factors in academic achievement.

Overall, while tuition costs are escalating, the University of Mary is striving to offer increased value through improved graduation and retention rates. However, balancing affordability and quality will be essential for attracting and retaining future students. The combination of rising tuition with positive outcomes in graduation and retention reflects a complex educational landscape that demands cautious navigation by both students and educational institutions.

Analysis of Graduation Trends at University of Mary

The data from the University of Mary reveals interesting trends in graduation rates, particularly in the fields of health and education. Notably, the Nursing Administration program and the Occupational Therapy program show a strong focus on advanced degrees, with 30 and 44 graduates at the master's and doctorate levels, respectively. This indicates a growing demand for specialized healthcare professionals amidst an increasing awareness of mental health and comprehensive healthcare management.

Conversely, the absence of undergraduate graduation numbers in health-related fields suggests potential barriers for those pursuing initial qualifications, possibly due to higher educational prerequisites or limited program offerings. This aligns with national trends where healthcare professions are increasingly requiring advanced certifications and degrees to meet evolving industry standards.

Meanwhile, the Psychology program stands out with 29 bachelor's graduates, signaling a significant interest in understanding human behavior and mental processes. However, the lack of international students in this category and others indicates that the University of Mary may not be attracting a diverse global student body, which is essential in today’s interconnected world.

Overall, while the University of Mary appears to be excelling in postgraduate education, particularly in critical areas like healthcare, there is a need to reassess undergraduate offerings. Enhancing international recruitment and diversifying academic programs could bolster overall enrollment and provide a more enriching educational environment. These trends should prompt further examination into program expansion and inclusivity strategies to meet future demands in various professional sectors.

Commentary on University of Mary Admission Trends and Ranking

The University of Mary's admission data over the past years paints a compelling picture of the institution's evolving landscape, particularly noticeable in the latest year, 2025, where it ranked 359th. This slight recovery from the previous year's ranking of 376th indicates a possible stabilization in its positioning amidst increasing competition among universities. Analyzing the acceptance rates reveals fluctuations that reflect broader trends in higher education. For instance, the male acceptance rate in recent years hovered around 79.6% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate was slightly higher at 82.6%. These acceptance rates suggest that the university is maintaining a relatively open policy for applicants, although the decline in enrollment numbers from 530 in 2019 to 559 in 2024 raises questions about the changing interest or perceived value among potential students. Moreover, the number of denied applications has consistently remained high, with 343 denials noted in 2024. This situation may underscore the university's efforts to selectively choose candidates who align with its evolving mission. The deferment numbers have also shown substantial figures in recent years, indicating that a not insignificant number of students are being granted admission yet choosing to postpone their entry. As universities continue to adapt to shifting educational demands and student expectations, the recent slight rise in ranking may reflect the University of Mary's strategic initiatives. Future years will be crucial for understanding whether this trend will continue or if the institution faces challenges adapting to the higher educational landscape's complexities.

Analysis of Admission Scores and Submission Rates at University of Mary

Over the years, the data from the University of Mary regarding standardized test submissions and scores provides insight into the evolving admissions landscape. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores has shown fluctuations, with a peak in 2013 when 48% of admitted students submitted their scores, which indicates a strong reliance on standardized testing during that period. Conversely, in recent years (2022 to 2024), this percentage has dropped significantly to just 7%, highlighting a shift in admissions strategies possibly influenced by the growing trend of schools adopting test-optional policies.

In analyzing the scores of admitted students, the median SAT reading and math scores have shown gradual improvement, particularly from 2010 onward. The 25% percentile starting scores have increased from the low 400s to the mid-500s range in recent years, which reflects the overall rise in academic credentials among applicants. This improvement in scores may relate to the university's effort to enhance its educational standards and attract higher caliber students.

Additionally, with the ongoing discussions around equity in college admissions, the decrease in reliance on standardized test scores suggests a progressive approach by the university, aiming to provide a more holistic evaluation process for applicants. This trend aligns with similar movements across the nation, where institutions are recognizing that a singular focus on test scores doesn't necessarily equate to student success or potential. Overall, the University of Mary's evolving admissions data reflects broader trends in higher education that prioritize a more inclusive and comprehensive evaluation of student applicants.

Analysis of Student Demographics at University of Mary in 2024

The student population at the University of Mary in 2024 exhibits a diverse mix of undergraduate freshmen, returning undergraduates, transfer undergraduates, and graduate students. Notably, the total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 559, with a gender distribution indicating that approximately 39.7% are male and 60.3% are female. This gender ratio reflects a broader trend in higher education, where female students often outnumber their male counterparts, particularly among first-year students.

The returning undergraduate cohort is significantly larger, numbering 1,605 students. Within this group, the male percentage is slightly lower at 41.5% compared to females at 58.5%. This demographic pattern continues with the transfer undergraduate students, where there is a near-equal gender distribution: 48.3% male and 51.7% female, showcasing an inclusive environment for students transitioning into new academic settings.

Graduate students, totaling 1,144, represent a unique demographic with a stark gender disparity, as only 32.6% are male compared to 67.4% female. This can be attributed to various factors, including the increasing number of women pursuing advanced degrees, particularly in social sciences and education.

Overall, the demographics at University of Mary in 2024 underscore an evolving landscape in higher education, characterized by higher female enrollment rates across various academic levels. This representation aligns with national trends wherein women are increasingly taking on leadership roles and participating in higher education at unprecedented rates. As institutions continue to prioritize diversity and inclusion, these statistics serve as a benchmark for future recruitment and retention strategies.

Demographic Trends at the University of Mary in 2024

The student age composition at the University of Mary for 2024 reveals some interesting demographic trends. A significant portion of the undergraduate population is concentrated in the younger age brackets, especially in the <18 and 18-19 ranges, where the majority of students appear to be. This trend is consistent with many universities that often attract younger learners, likely due to the traditional pathway of entering college right after high school.

As we delve into the 20-21 age bracket, we observe a slight decline in the male population compared to females, which hints at the growing trend of female students outnumbering their male counterparts in higher education. The data shows that this trend continues across the subsequent age groups, with particularly large female populations in the 22-24 and 25-29 categories. This aligns with national trends indicating an increase in female enrollment in universities.

The older age categories, including those aged 40 and above, constitute a smaller percentage of the overall student body, but they indicate a notable presence of non-traditional learners returning for further education or career changes, reflecting a larger movement in adult education.

Overall, these statistics not only mirror national trends observed in higher education but also highlight the need for universities to reassess their outreach and retention strategies. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, understanding these demographic shifts becomes crucial for future planning and resource allocation.

Trends in International Enrollment at the University of Mary

The international student enrollment data at the University of Mary reflects significant fluctuations over the years. Examining the undergraduate population, we note a peak in 2024 with 65 international students, suggesting a growing interest in the university among global scholars. However, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate segment has been generally low, reaching only 2.45% in 2024, indicating that the majority of the student body remains domestic.

In terms of graduate enrollment, the international participation has shown some variability, with notable highs in previous years, including 45 international students in 2014 (5.20%). However, this figure has declined sharply in subsequent years, with only 3 graduate international students reported in 2023, translating to a mere 0.26%. This alarming drop may correlate with broader themes in higher education, including changes in immigration policies, global travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and shifting perceptions among prospective students regarding studying abroad.

These trends are critical for the university in evaluating its recruitment strategies and understanding the regulatory environment influencing international student mobility. The ever-increasing competition among universities globally necessitates a thoughtful and proactive approach to attract international talent. The data suggests that while there can be peaks in specific years, maintaining consistent and sustainable growth in international enrollment remains an ongoing challenge for the University of Mary. Enhancing support systems for international students and fostering a welcoming campus environment could be key strategies for addressing this issue going forward.

Here are some notable schools surrounding the University of Mary, along with their brief introductions:

• North Dakota State University-Main Campus: Ranked 231st in the 2025 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, focusing on research and innovation.

• University of North Dakota: With a rank of 244, this comprehensive institution is known for its strong programs in aviation, health sciences, and engineering.

• Saint John's University: A highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 80th in the 2025 US News rankings. It offers a unique educational experience centered on community and personal growth.

• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities: Ranked 54th, this major research university is known for its diverse range of programs and vibrant campus life in the heart of the Twin Cities.

• Carleton College: This top-ranked liberal arts college (ranked 8th) is celebrated for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on student-faculty collaboration.

• Creighton University: A Jesuit university with a rank of 121, offering strong programs in health sciences, business, and law, fostering a commitment to service and ethics.

These institutions not only contribute to the educational landscape but also provide a variety of programs and experiences for students.

Analysis of Crime Statistics at the University of Mary

The crime data from the University of Mary reveals a fluctuating trend in campus safety over the years. In particular, the average crime rate per 1,000 students peaked in 2013 at 15.38, witnessing a gradual decline over the following years, hitting a low of 4.11 in 2019. This significant drop suggests earlier efforts to enhance campus security and promote student safety, potentially through better crime prevention initiatives and increased awareness.

Interestingly, there was a resurgence in crime rates in 2021, with an average rate of 15.16 per 1,000 students, indicating a spike that may correlate with the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic in the previous year, including isolation and mental health issues among students. Events such as these can often lead to increased instances of certain crimes, including domestic violence and substance abuse.

Subsequent years showed a modest return to lower crime rates, ending at 5.15 in 2023. The presence of various crime categories, such as domestic violence and assaults, highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and support within the campus community. Educational institutions must continue to prioritize mental health resources, awareness campaigns, and create a supportive environment that encourages students to seek help.

As the university navigates these fluctuating crime statistics, the focus should remain on sustaining the downward trend, ensuring that students can feel safe and secure in their educational environment. For more insights on crime rate calculations, refer to: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.