Niagara University: 89.6% Acceptance Rate

89.6%Acceptance

$38,135Tuition

2,713Students

70%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$56,196Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Roman Catholic

About Niagara University

Niagara University has built its reputation on strong business and education programs while maintaining its Catholic identity in a close-knit community of 2,713 students. The school sits in a large suburban setting near the famous falls, creating a unique backdrop for campus life. Notable graduates include NBA Hall of Famer Calvin Murphy and two-time American League MVP Juan Gonzalez, reflecting the university's athletic heritage alongside academic achievement.

The financial picture tells a reasonable story for most families. Students pay an average net price of $18,740 after aid, less than the sticker price of $51,535. Graduates earn a median of $56,196 ten years after graduation, while carrying typical debt loads of $25,475. The 10-to-1 student-faculty ratio suggests personalized attention that helps justify the investment.

Women make up 66% of the student body, creating a female-majority environment. The Purple Eagles compete in Division I athletics with 19 varsity sports and 339 student-athletes. With an 89.6% acceptance rate, Niagara welcomes most serious applicants while maintaining academic standards reflected in its 1135 average SAT score. The 80.7% retention rate shows most students find what they're looking for here.

Academics & Faculty

Niagara University built its academic reputation around business and education programs that prepare students for careers in Western New York and beyond. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio ensures professors know students by name, not just ID numbers. This Catholic institution emphasizes both professional preparation and liberal arts foundations across its undergraduate programs. With a 71% four-year graduation rate, most students finish on schedule despite the personal attention sometimes slowing progress at smaller schools. The business school attracts students seeking accounting and management degrees, while the education program feeds teachers into regional school districts. The university's size allows for close mentoring relationships that larger research universities cannot match.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Full-Time Faculty: 100.0%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 71.3%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 70.2%
Retention Rate: 80.7%
Median Earnings (10 years): $56,196
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Large)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Bachelor	$69,854
Business/Commerce, General.	Master	$54,644
Accounting and Related Services.	Master	$53,497
Special Education and Teaching.	Master	$46,478
Accounting and Related Services.	Bachelor	$41,007
Criminal Justice and Corrections.	Master	$40,813
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions.	Master	$39,369
Computer and Information Sciences, General.	Bachelor	$37,208
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Bachelor	$36,848
Criminal Justice and Corrections.	Bachelor	$34,526

View all 75 programs →

Campus Life

The small campus sits just minutes from Niagara Falls, putting you 20 miles north of Buffalo in a region that sees heavy lake-effect snow and frigid winters. With housing capacity for 1,442 students and total enrollment of 2,713, about half the student body lives on campus. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name, and the tight-knit Catholic community creates a family atmosphere where upperclassmen mentor newcomers.

Women outnumber men nearly 2-to-1 at 66%, and 83% of students come from New York State. Purple Eagles athletics draw campus-wide support, with 339 student-athletes competing across 19 Division I sports. Basketball games against rival Canisius generate the biggest crowds. Weekend activities center around campus events, trips to nearby Buffalo for restaurants and nightlife, or outdoor adventures at Niagara Falls State Park. The suburban setting means you'll want a car for off-campus exploration, though shuttle services connect to local shopping and the falls.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 1,442 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1856

Campus Safety (2023)

13 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Rape	3	3
Dating Violence	2	2
Fondling	1	1
Stalking	1	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 18°–33°F
July Avg: 63°–82°F
Annual Precipitation: 34.7"
Annual Snowfall: 72.4"

Student Demographics

Niagara draws students who want the Catholic university experience without venturing far from home. Over 80% of students come from New York state, reflecting the school's strong regional reputation rather than national prestige. Women make up two-thirds of the student body, drawn largely to the university's well-regarded education and nursing programs. About one in four students receives Pell Grants, showing the school serves middle-class families seeking affordable private education. The predominantly white student body mirrors the demographics of upstate New York, though the university has been working to diversify its enrollment.

Men: 34.0%
Women: 66.1%
White: 58.8%
Black: 6.9%
Hispanic: 5.4%
Asian: 1.9%
In-State Students: 82.9%
Pell Grant Recipients: 25.9%

Location

Niagara University sits in western New York, just seven miles from Niagara Falls and 20 minutes from Buffalo. The 160-acre campus serves 2,713 students in a suburban setting that blends small-town charm with proximity to one of the world's most famous natural landmarks. The Niagara River region offers four distinct seasons and easy access to both outdoor recreation and urban amenities. Students can walk to the thundering falls or drive to Buffalo's revitalized downtown in under 30 minutes. The area attracts millions of tourists annually, creating internship and job opportunities in hospitality and tourism. Students considering colleges in New York may also compare Niagara University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Niagara University, New York 14109

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $56,196
Median Earnings (5 years): $56,693
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $37,000
Loan Repayment Rate: 72.3%
Monthly Loan Payment: $270/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $25,475

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Niagara University?

Niagara University accepts 89.55% of applicants, making it accessible to most students who apply. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1030 and 1240 on the SAT. This Catholic university focuses on building a close-knit community rather than exclusivity.

How much does Niagara University cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $18,740 after financial aid, less than the sticker price of $51,535. About 26% of students receive Pell Grants for low-income families. Graduates typically leave with $25,475 in debt and monthly loan payments of $270.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Niagara University?

Niagara University maintains a 10:1 student-faculty ratio with just 2,713 total students. The small class sizes support the university's focus on business and education programs. About 80.7% of students return for their sophomore year, reflecting satisfaction with the personal attention.

What are the job prospects for Niagara University graduates?

Graduates achieve a 98.2% employment rate and earn a median salary of $56,196 ten years after graduation. About 70% complete their degree within six years. The strong alumni network includes NBA Hall of Famer Calvin Murphy and two-time MLB MVP Juan Gonzalez.

Where is Niagara University located and what is campus life like?

The campus sits near Niagara Falls in a large suburban setting with housing for 1,442 students. Women make up 66% of the student body, while 83% of students come from New York state. The Purple Eagles compete in 19 NCAA Division I sports with $5.7 million in athletic scholarships.

Does Niagara University have strong athletic programs?

The Purple Eagles field 19 varsity teams with 339 total athletes competing in NCAA Division I as part of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The university invests $5.66 million annually in athletic scholarships. Athletics serve as a major source of school pride and community connection on the small Catholic campus.