Briar Cliff University
Briar Cliff University is a private nonprofit university in Sioux City, IA ranked #1405 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B-, and enrolling about 626 undergraduates. Students most often pursue Business Administration, Management and Operations and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, 60.3% first-year retention, and 49.4% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $21,590, about $4,592 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -44.0%, roughly 129.3 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $48,338. That's about $4,650 higher than national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Briar Cliff University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Briar Cliff University graduates 49.4% of students within six years and keeps 60.3% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Briar Cliff University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $35,534 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,544 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $10,208 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,556 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $49,693 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 29.5% of Briar Cliff University students receive Pell Grants — slightly below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $19,435 to $25,265 depending on family income. Use Briar Cliff University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $23,338/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $25,265/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $48,338
- 10-Year Median Earnings $48,338
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $15,506
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 65.6%
- Employment Rate 91.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Briar Cliff University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Briar Cliff University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Briar Cliff University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Briar Cliff University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Briar Cliff University graduates earn $48,338 median, the -44.0% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 626
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 60.3%
- Graduation Rate 49.4%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 12:1
How to Get Into Briar Cliff University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Briar Cliff University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of Not reported, Briar Cliff University is selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Briar Cliff University undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Social Work, and Business Administration, Management and Operations draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 19.7%
- Social Work 17.2%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 10.2%
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness 9.4%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 6.1%
- Psychology, General 4.9%
See more majors
- Criminology 4.5%
- Biology, General 2.9%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations $71,329
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $70,850
- 3. Accounting and Related Services $54,079
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Health and Physical Education/Fitness $49,714
- 5. Social Work $42,935
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $86,165
- 2. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degree) $74,352
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations grads earn $71,329—66% more than Social Work ($42,935). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $86,165 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Briar Cliff University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degree, 31 graduates)
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 23 graduates)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 15 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 12 graduates)
- Criminology (Bachelor's Degree, 11 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (37 programs)▼
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Psychology, General
- Criminology
- Biology, General
- History
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Mathematics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Marketing
- Design and Applied Arts
- Computer Science
- Communication and Media Studies
- Chemistry
- Music
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Sociology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Journalism
- International Business
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Education, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
Online Master's Degrees (4 programs)▼
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)▼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 626
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 51.3%
- Female Students 48.7%
- Caucasian 57.4%
- Asian 0.6%
- Hispanic 16.1%
- Black 7.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 29.5%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Briar Cliff University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Briar Cliff University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Briar Cliff University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Briar Cliff University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Briar Cliff University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Briar Cliff University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Briar Cliff University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -44.0% ROI. Ranked #1405 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $21,590 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $48,338 median earnings. With 49.4% graduating within six years and 60.3% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Briar Cliff University's Positioning
With a B- grade and #1405 ranking, Briar Cliff University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $21,590 annually, Briar Cliff University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 60.3% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $15,113 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -44.0% ROI and $48,338 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $11,590+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Briar Cliff University ranks #1405 of 6272 institutions, with 857 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 49.4% six-year graduation rate sits 13.1 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 60.3% first-year retention is 16.5 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -44.0% return on investment is 129.3 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $48,338 run about 11% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $21,590 is roughly $4,472 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 60.3% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 91.4% employment rate within three years sits 23.2 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $21,590 is about $4,472 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 29.5% trails the national share by 9.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates Briar Cliff University—a private nonprofit university in Sioux City, IA—at B- overall. It stands at #1405 among 6272 schools Category results include Completion (C+), Support (B-), Career Outcomes (B+), and Affordability (B-).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 60.3% of first-year students return, and roughly 49.4% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -44.0% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $21,590 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $49,693.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $28,103 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $15,506 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 29.5% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $48,338 six years after enrollment. That sits about 11% above the national median.
Roughly 91.4% of graduates are employed three years out.
The ROI comes in near -44.0%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
This institution has not reported a current acceptance rate.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Briar Cliff University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Sioux City, IA 51104
- Website www.briarcliff.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$21.1M