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Lourdes University

Sylvania, OH | Private Nonprofit | University

Lourdes University has an acceptance rate of 74.1%, annual tuition of $29,500, average net price of $23,206, and a national rank of #1042 (Grade B-), with a 32.5% six-year graduation rate, about 543 undergraduates, and median earnings of $40,158 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

Lourdes University is a private nonprofit university in Sylvania, OH. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Accounting and Related Services.

Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, and 87.1% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at -56.7%, roughly 142.0 points below typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

B-
Ranking
#1042 of 6,101
How We Rank Schools Small campus feel
At a Glance
Ranking
#1042 of 6,101 (Top 17.1%)
Tuition
$29,500
Net Price
$23,206
4-Year Tuition
$118,000
Acceptance Rate
74.1%
Transfer Rate
19.9%
Student Population
543
Student-Faculty
12:1
Graduation Rate
32.5%
Retention Rate
87.1%
6-Yr Earnings
$40,158
ROI
-56.7%

Who is Lourdes University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Students who thrive with close mentoring
Learners who value a tight-knit campus
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#1042 of 6,101
Top 17.1% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
46.4 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
2.32 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B-
#1,286 of 6,101
Affordability
B-
#1,321 of 6,101
Support
B+
#341 of 6,101
Career Outcomes
B
#1,052 of 6,101

Lourdes University graduates 32.5% of students within six years and keeps 87.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$22,220-$21,394 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Challenging
32.5% finish within six years. 31.9% complete in four years.
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
89.3% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings six years after entry are $40,158. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use Lourdes University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$181,512
$45,378 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$104,427
$23,206 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 31.9% | 6-Year Rate: 32.5%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 31.9% and six-year completion is 32.5%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$45,378
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$23,206
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 $29,500
Books and Supplies $1,418
On-Campus Room and Board $12,460
On-Campus Other Expenses $3,578
Total On-Campus Cost $45,378

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

Pell Grant
30.0%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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 30.0% of Lourdes 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.

$0 - $30,000
$22,220
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$22,184
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$23,192
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$27,236
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$21,394
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $22,220 to $21,394 depending on family income. Use Lourdes University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$99,990
$30K-$48K families
~$99,828
$48K-$75K families
~$104,364
$75K-$110K families
~$122,562
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $27,236/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $21,394/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
-56.7%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • 6-Year Median Earnings $40,158
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $40,158
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $19,000
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 34.8%
  • Employment Rate 89.3%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for Lourdes 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.

Graduates earn a median of $40,158 six years after enrollment — roughly 8% below the national median.
Payback Period
2.60 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

Lourdes University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Lourdes University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Lourdes University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: While Lourdes University graduates earn $40,158 median, the -56.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
74.1%
Less Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
  • SAT Math Not reported
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite Not reported
  • SAT & ACTNot required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 543
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Retention Rate 87.1%
  • Graduation Rate 32.5%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 12:1

How to Get Into Lourdes University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: Lourdes 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 74.1%, Lourdes University is relatively open. 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: With a 74.1% acceptance rate, Lourdes University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Lourdes University undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Business Administration, Management and Operations, and Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods draw the most students.

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 33.3%
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 10.4%
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 8.0%
  • Biology, General 7.5%
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 5.5%
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections 5.5%
See more majors
  • Marketing 5.5%
  • Social Work 5.0%

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 $72,028
  • 2. Accounting and Related Services $59,597
  • 3. Biology, General $56,441
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $54,126
  • 5. Marketing $49,461
  • 6. Criminal Justice and Corrections $48,505
  • 7. Business Administration, Management and Operations $48,238
  • 8. Social Work $46,178
  • 9. Psychology, General $45,121
  • 10. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $44,122

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $237,898
  • 2. Bioethics/Medical Ethics (Master's Degree) $94,367
  • 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $73,264
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Education, Other (Master's Degree) $59,431
  • 5. Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degree) $54,947

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $72,028—63% more than Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods ($44,122). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $237,898 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Lourdes 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

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 67 graduates)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 21 graduates)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 16 graduates)
  • Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 15 graduates)
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master'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 (23 programs)â–¼
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Biology, General
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
  • Marketing
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections
  • Social Work
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Psychology, General
  • Sociology
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Public Health
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • History
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Business/Commerce, General
Online Master's Degrees (4 programs)â–¼
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Education, Other
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Religion/Religious Studies
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (4 programs)â–¼
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Education, Other
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (2 programs)â–¼
  • Religious Education
  • Education, Other

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 543
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Male Students 46.6%
  • Female Students 53.4%
  • Caucasian 66.5%
  • Asian 1.8%
  • Hispanic 8.7%
  • Black 12.2%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 30.0%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Lourdes University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of Lourdes University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Lourdes University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
26.7%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
63.6%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
37.0 pts
equity gap to monitor

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 Lourdes University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Lourdes University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
26.7%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
63.6%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
37.0 pts
equity gap to monitor

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 Lourdes University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

Lourdes University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -56.7% ROI. Ranked #1042 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.

The $23,206 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $40,158 median earnings. With 32.5% graduating within six years and 87.1% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.

Private University Value: Lourdes University's Positioning

With a B- grade and #1042 ranking, Lourdes University competes in the crowded regional private university market.

The Private University Premium: At $23,206 annually, Lourdes University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 87.1% 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 $16,244 achieve particularly strong value.

Cost-Benefit Reality: The -56.7% ROI and $40,158 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $13,206+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.

Competitive Standing: Lourdes University ranks #1042 of 6101 institutions, with 1274 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

  • 32.5% six-year graduation rate sits 30.0 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 87.1% first-year retention is 10.3 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • -56.7% return on investment is 142.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $40,158 run about 8% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
  • Average net price of $23,206 is roughly $5,809 higher than the national median of $17,397.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 12:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 87.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 89.3% employment rate within three years sits 21.1 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Average net price of $23,206 is about $5,809 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
  • Pell participation at 30.0% trails the national share by 9.1 points, so equity work remains important.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

Lourdes University is a private nonprofit university based in Sylvania, OH and earns a B- overall grade. It appears at #1042 in EDsmart's national list Grades by category break down as Completion B-, 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.

Student momentum is strong: 87.1% retention and 32.5% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures -56.7% 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 $23,206 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $45,378.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $22,172 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $19,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 30.0% 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

Six years in, alumni earn roughly $40,158 at the median. That sits about 8% below the national median.

Roughly 89.3% of graduates are employed three years out.

Plan around an ROI of about -56.7% according to the Scorecard data.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

74.1% 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 Lourdes 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.

EDsmart Verdict
2.32 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate
Compare with similar schools
See how Lourdes University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
Visit the campus
Schedule a campus tour or virtual visit
Visit Lourdes University Website →

Similar Schools

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Nearby Schools

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Oberlin College
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University of Akron Main Campus
Akron, OH
B- #1038 of 6,101
Shawnee State University
Portsmouth, OH
B #1017 of 6,101
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, OH
B #1004 of 6,101

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lourdes University's acceptance rate?

Lourdes University's acceptance rate is 74.1%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does Lourdes University cost?

At Lourdes University, listed tuition and fees are $29,500 per year, and the average net price after aid is $23,206. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is Lourdes University's ranking?

Lourdes University ranks #1042 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is Lourdes University's graduation rate?

At Lourdes University, the six-year graduation rate is 32.5%, and first-year retention is 87.1%.

What are Lourdes University's job outcomes?

Graduates of Lourdes University report median earnings of $40,158 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is Lourdes University's student population?

Lourdes University enrolls about 543 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
  • Endowment$8.9M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate19.9%

Data Source & Methodology â–¼