Utah Valley University: $6,270 Tuition

$6,270Tuition

27,481Students

41%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$55,486Earnings

#6 in UtahPublic4-yearNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About Utah Valley University

Utah Valley University welcomes nearly any student who wants to attend, making it one of the most accessible universities in the state. The university enrolls 27,481 students in the small city of Orem, where the Wasatch Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for campus life. UVU has grown from a vocational school founded in 1941 into one of Utah's largest public universities. The open enrollment policy means students can start here regardless of high school performance and work toward their goals.

Students pay an average of $8,463 after financial aid, making UVU one of the most affordable options in Utah. Graduates earn a median of $55,486 ten years after starting college, which provides solid returns on the investment. Monthly loan payments average just $156, and typical debt loads hit $14,750 at graduation. Only 23% of students receive federal financial aid, suggesting many families can afford the low sticker price without borrowing heavily.

The graduation rates tell an important story about UVU's mission. Just 40% of students graduate within six years, reflecting the school's role as an access point for non-traditional students, working adults, and those exploring college for the first time. The 28:1 student-faculty ratio means larger classes, but the Wolverines compete in Division I athletics across 12 sports.

Academics & Faculty

Utah Valley University operates as an open-enrollment institution, accepting nearly all applicants regardless of academic background. The university serves 27,481 students with a student-faculty ratio of 28:1, meaning larger class sizes and less individual attention than typical four-year universities. UVU's 40% graduation rate reflects the challenges many students face balancing work, family, and academics. The school emphasizes practical, career-focused programs including business, education, and health professions. UVU pioneered the "dual mission" model, offering both university degrees and community college certificates under one roof. This approach helps students transition from basic skills to bachelor's degrees, though the broad mission sometimes dilutes academic resources across many different program levels.

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

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 28:1
Full-Time Faculty: 48.5%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 40.0%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 40.7%
Retention Rate: 69.7%
Median Earnings (10 years): $55,486
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Large)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Computer Science.	Bachelor	$77,401
Computer Engineering.	Bachelor	$73,949
Business/Commerce, General.	Master	$71,575
Building/Construction Finishing, Management, and Inspection.	Bachelor	$67,899
Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians.	Associate	$67,101
Information Science/Studies.	Bachelor	$64,990
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications.	Bachelor	$60,298
Curriculum and Instruction.	Master	$57,318
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Bachelor	$54,894
Finance and Financial Management Services.	Bachelor	$53,608

View all 183 programs →

Campus Life

Utah Valley University sits in Orem, about 45 minutes south of Salt Lake City at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. With 27,481 students spread across campus, UVU feels bustling but not overwhelming. You'll need both winter coats and sunscreen here, Utah's high desert climate brings snowy winters and hot, dry summers with over 200 sunny days per year.

The campus buzzes with a unique energy since 82.53% of students are from Utah and many are older than typical college age. UVU's open enrollment policy creates a diverse academic environment where returning students mix with recent high school graduates. With a 28:1 student-faculty ratio, you'll mostly be in larger lecture halls, especially for general education courses. Most students commute from the surrounding Utah County area rather than living on campus. Weekends often involve outdoor activities, hiking, skiing, or exploring Utah's national parks are popular given the proximity to strong recreation. The strong LDS culture in the area influences campus life, though the university welcomes students of all backgrounds.

Setting: City-Small
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1941

Campus Safety (2023)

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

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Domestic Violence	8	8
Motor Vehicle Theft	6	3
Burglary	4	3
Rape	3	3
Dating Violence	3	2
Fondling	3	1
Stalking	2	1

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 19°–36°F
July Avg: 63°–91°F
Annual Precipitation: 13.3"
Annual Snowfall: 25.3"

Student Demographics

Utah Valley University draws primarily from Utah communities, with over 80% of its students coming from in-state. The student body of 27,481 reflects the demographics of Utah County and surrounding areas. Nearly one in four students receives Pell Grants, indicating the university serves working-class families seeking affordable higher education. The roughly even gender split aligns with UVU's full program offerings that attract students across diverse fields. As an open-enrollment institution, UVU welcomes students who might not qualify for more selective universities, creating an accessible pathway to four-year degrees for local residents.

Men: 51.7%
Women: 48.3%
White: 77.0%
Black: 1.1%
Hispanic: 13.3%
Asian: 1.4%
In-State Students: 82.5%
Pell Grant Recipients: 23.4%

Location

Utah Valley University sits in Orem, just 45 miles south of Salt Lake City in Utah County. The campus serves 27,481 students in the heart of Utah Valley, surrounded by the dramatic Wasatch Mountains to the east and Utah Lake to the west. Orem forms part of the Provo-Orem metropolitan area, creating a tech-heavy corridor known as "Silicon Slopes" where many graduates find employment. The 82.53% in-state enrollment reflects the strong local and regional draw of this affordable option. Students enjoy access to strong skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation within minutes of campus. The university's location provides both suburban amenities and easy access to Salt Lake City's job market. Students considering colleges in Utah may also compare Utah Valley University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Orem, Utah 84058-5999

After College

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

Median Earnings (10 years): $55,486
Median Earnings (5 years): $61,664
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $38,700
Loan Repayment Rate: 59.4%
Monthly Loan Payment: $156/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $14,750

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the admission requirements at Utah Valley University?

Utah Valley University maintains an open enrollment policy, accepting virtually all applicants who meet basic requirements. With 27,481 students enrolled, UVU serves as an accessible entry point for higher education in Utah. The university retains 69.67% of first-year students, reflecting its role as a comprehensive regional institution.

How much does Utah Valley University cost after financial aid?

Students at Utah Valley University pay an average net price of $8,463 annually. In-state tuition runs $6,270 while out-of-state students pay $17,830. Only 23.37% of students receive federal financial aid, indicating many families can afford the relatively low sticker price.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Utah Valley University?

Utah Valley University operates with a 28:1 student-faculty ratio, reflecting its status as a large public institution. The university has grown rapidly since its founding in 1941, evolving from a vocational school to a comprehensive university. This higher ratio means students should expect larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses.

What are the graduation rates at Utah Valley University?

Utah Valley University graduates 40.70% of students within six years and 39.99% within four years. These rates reflect the university's open enrollment mission and large population of working students. Graduates earn a median salary of $55,486 ten years after graduation with typical loan payments of $156 monthly.

Where is Utah Valley University located and what is campus life like?

Utah Valley University sits in Orem, a small city in Utah Valley between Salt Lake City and Provo. The campus serves 51.70% male and 48.30% female students, with 82.53% coming from in-state. As a NCAA Division I institution with 12 varsity sports and 342 athletes, the Wolverines compete in the Western Athletic Conference.

Does Utah Valley University have strong job placement for graduates?

Utah Valley University boasts a 92.7% employment rate for graduates, reflecting strong regional job market connections. The university emphasizes practical, career-focused education alongside traditional academic programs. With median debt of just $14,750 and a 59.38% loan repayment rate, graduates generally manage their financial obligations successfully.