Dillard University
Dillard University is a private nonprofit university in New Orleans, LA ranked #666 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 1,111 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 40.5%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Sociology.
Academically, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, 69.6% first-year retention, and 45.1% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $18,553, about $1,555 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -6158.7%, roughly 6244.0 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $28,507. That's about $15,181 below national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Dillard University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Dillard University graduates 45.1% of students within six years and keeps 69.6% 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 Dillard 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 | $22,194 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,300 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $11,786 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $5,924 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $36,057 |
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 67.8% of Dillard University students receive Pell Grants — well above 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 $18,801 to $17,604 depending on family income. Use Dillard University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $21,306/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $17,604/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $28,507
- 10-Year Median Earnings $28,507
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $23,048
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 54.7%
- Employment Rate 92.8%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Dillard 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.
Dillard University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Dillard University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Dillard University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Dillard University graduates earn $28,507 median, the -61.6% 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 503-590
- SAT Math 473-563
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 19-23
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,111
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 69.6%
- Graduation Rate 45.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1
How to Get Into Dillard University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Dillard 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 40.5%, Dillard University is moderately 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.
EDsmart Insight: Dillard University accepts 40.5% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 976 and 1153 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Dillard University undergraduates. Public Health, Biology, General, and Criminal Justice and Corrections draw the most students.
- Public Health 15.7%
- Biology, General 15.2%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 10.3%
- Psychology, General 9.0%
- Communication and Media Studies 6.7%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 6.7%
See more majors
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 5.4%
- English Language and Literature, General 4.0%
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. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $88,360
- 2. Sociology $50,378
- 3. Biology, General $48,297
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Public Health $46,580
- 5. Communication and Media Studies $44,142
- 6. Business Administration, Management and Operations $42,214
- 7. Psychology, General $41,098
- 8. Criminal Justice and Corrections $26,744
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $88,360—230% more than Criminal Justice and Corrections ($26,744). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Dillard 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
- Public Health (Bachelor's Degree, 35 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 34 graduates)
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 23 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 20 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 15 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 (21 programs)▼
- Public Health
- Biology, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Psychology, General
- Communication and Media Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Accounting and Related Services
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Social Work
- Political Science and Government
- Mathematics
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Music
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,111
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 26.4%
- Female Students 73.6%
- Caucasian 0.7%
- Asian 0.1%
- Hispanic 2.8%
- Black 89.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 67.8%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Dillard University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Dillard University's undergraduate population. Women make up 73.6% of the student body, while men represent 26.4%.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Dillard University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Dillard University has a diverse student body, with 0.7% identifying as White. Women make up 73.6% of undergraduates. 67.8% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Dillard University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Dillard University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -61.6% ROI. Ranked #666 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $18,553 annual net price is moderately higher than state schools, offset somewhat by $28,507 median earnings. With 45.1% graduating within six years and 69.6% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Dillard University's Positioning
With a B grade and #666 ranking, Dillard University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $18,553 annually, Dillard University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 69.6% 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 $12,987 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -61.6% ROI and $28,507 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $8,553+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Dillard University ranks #666 of 1927 institutions, with 1493 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
- 45.1% six-year graduation rate sits 17.4 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 69.6% first-year retention is 7.2 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -61.6% return on investment is 146.9 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $28,507 run about 35% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $18,553 is roughly $1,321 lower than the national median of $19,874.
Helpfulness for Students
- 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 69.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 92.8% employment rate within three years sits 24.6 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Dillard University, a private nonprofit university in New Orleans, LA, secures a B grade in our latest review. It appears at #666 in EDsmart's national list Category results include Completion (D+), Support (B+), Career Outcomes (B), and Affordability (B-).
About 69.6% of first-year students return, and roughly 45.1% finish within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -61.6%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $18,553 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $36,057.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $17,504 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $23,048 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 67.8% 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 $28,507 six years after enrollment. Compared with the national median, that's 35% lower.
Roughly 92.8% of graduates are employed three years out.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -61.6%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
40.5% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
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 Dillard 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 New Orleans, LA 70122
- Website www.dillard.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$92.8M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate23.7%