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Trinity University

San Antonio, TX | Private Nonprofit | University

Trinity University has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, annual tuition of $53,676, average net price of $23,464, and a national rank of #96 (Grade A), with a 84.0% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 2,505 undergraduates, and median earnings of $67,249 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

Trinity University is a private nonprofit university in San Antonio, TX. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Finance and Financial Management Services.

Day to day, students benefit from a 8:1 student-faculty ratio, and 92.9% first-year retention. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.

EDsmart calculates return on investment at 67.1%, roughly 17.2 points higher than typical outcomes. It's well-suited to motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community and students looking for meaningful faculty access.

A
Ranking
#96 of 1,947
How We Rank Schools Top-100 option
At a Glance
Ranking
#96 of 1,947 (Top 4.9%)
Tuition
$53,676
Net Price
$23,464
4-Year Tuition
$214,704
Acceptance Rate
25.9%
Transfer Rate
13.9%
Student Population
2,505
Student-Faculty
8:1
Grad Rate (150% time)
84.0%
Grad Rate (8-year)
78.2%
Retention Rate
92.9%
4-Yr Earnings
$67,249
ROI
67.1%

Who is Trinity 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
Momentum seekers needing high retention
Students wanting a top-100 campus
Students seeking strong career outcomes
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#96 of 1,947
Top 4.9% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
95.1 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
4.76 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
A
#124 of 1,947
Affordability
C+
#1,536 of 1,947
Support
A
#85 of 1,947
Career Outcomes
B+
#383 of 1,947

Trinity University graduates 84.0% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 78.2% and keeps 92.9% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$10,356-$34,549 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Highly likely
84.0% graduate within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings). The College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 78.2%. 72.5% complete in four years (IPEDS 100% time).
What are job outcomes?
Highly likely
91.3% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings four years after graduation are $67,249. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use Trinity 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)
$272,896
$68,224 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$100,294
$23,464 × 4.3 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.3 years | 4-Year Rate: 72.5% | 6-Year Rate: 84.0% | 8-Year Rate: 78.2%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 72.5% and six-year completion is 84.0%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$68,224
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$23,464
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 $53,676
Books and Supplies $1,000
On-Campus Room and Board $14,750
On-Campus Other Expenses $1,400
Total On-Campus Cost $68,224

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
18.8%
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 18.8% of Trinity University students receive Pell Grants — 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
$10,356
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$13,260
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$14,305
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$22,134
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$34,549
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $10,356 to $34,549 depending on family income. Use Trinity University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$46,602
$30K-$48K families
~$59,670
$48K-$75K families
~$64,372
$75K-$110K families
~$99,603
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $22,134/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $34,549/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
67.1%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $67,249
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $71,668
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
  • Average Student Debt $22,954
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 86.4%
  • Employment Rate 91.3%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for Trinity 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 $67,249 four years after graduation — roughly 11% above the national median.
Payback Period
1.49 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

Trinity University vs. National Average

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

EDsmart Insight: Trinity University graduates earn $67,249 median four years after graduation, +11% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
25.9%
Moderately Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 680-750
  • SAT Math 660-750
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 31-34
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 2,505
  • Full-Time Students 99.0%
  • Part-Time Students 1.0%
  • Retention Rate 92.9%
  • Grad Rate (150% time) 84.0%
  • Grad Rate (8-year) 78.2%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 8:1

How to Get Into Trinity University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: Trinity 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 25.9%, Trinity 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: Trinity University accepts 25.9% 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 1340 and 1500 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Trinity University undergraduates. Communication and Media Studies, Research and Experimental Psychology, and Economics draw the most students.

  • Communication and Media Studies 5.9%
  • Research and Experimental Psychology 5.6%
  • Economics 5.6%
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods 5.5%
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General 5.0%
  • English Language and Literature, General 4.6%
See more majors
  • Marketing 4.6%
  • Engineering Science 4.3%

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. Computer and Information Sciences, General $124,271
  • 2. Finance and Financial Management Services $105,372
  • 3. Accounting and Related Services $92,279
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Economics $88,904
  • 5. Engineering Science $74,063
  • 6. Marketing $72,509
  • 7. Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics $59,266
  • 8. Communication and Media Studies $55,952
  • 9. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $55,887
  • 10. Political Science and Government $27,601

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $179,800
  • 2. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $106,430
  • 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $67,487
Show additional graduate majors
  • 4. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $56,785

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $124,271—350% more than Political Science and Government ($27,601). Graduate: Health and Medical Administrative Services programs lead with $179,800 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Trinity 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

  • Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 40 graduates)
  • Research and Experimental Psychology (Bachelor's Degree, 38 graduates)
  • Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 38 graduates)
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 37 graduates)
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 34 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 (49 programs)
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Research and Experimental Psychology
  • Economics
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General
  • Marketing
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Engineering Science
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Political Science and Government
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • History
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Biology, General
  • Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
  • Anthropology
  • Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Chemistry
  • Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Philosophy
  • Mathematics
  • International Business
  • Sociology
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Physics
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • Music
  • Area Studies
  • Urban Studies/Affairs
  • Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
  • East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
  • Public Health
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Environmental Geosciences
  • Engineering Physics
Online Master's Degrees (5 programs)
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 2,505
  • Full-Time Students 99.0%
  • Part-Time Students 1.0%
  • Male Students 45.4%
  • Female Students 54.6%
  • Caucasian 50.5%
  • Asian 8.4%
  • Hispanic 25.0%
  • Black 4.4%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 18.8%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

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

Gender Distribution

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

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

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

Pell Grant Recipients
83.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
83.7%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
0.1 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Trinity University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: About 18.8% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

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

Pell Grant Recipients
83.6%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
83.7%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
0.1 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Trinity University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

Ranking #96 nationally, Trinity University combines competitive admissions with 67.1% ROI, positioning itself among America's stronger universities. The institution balances academic rigor with $67,249 in median post-graduation earnings.

Students graduate within 150% of normal time at a 84.0% rate, with 92.9% retention reflecting solid satisfaction. The $23,464 annual net price falls in the moderate range, though 851 institutions deliver comparable outcomes at lower costs.

Competitive Selective University: Trinity University's Market Position

A grade | #96 of 1947 | 95.1/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total)

Competitive Positioning: Trinity University occupies the competitive selective tier—not elite enough for automatic career advantages, but strong enough to provide quality education and reasonable outcomes. The 67.1% ROI reflects this middle ground: better than most, but not top-tier.

Value for Money: $23,464 annually produces $67,249 median earnings—a reasonable but not exceptional return. Students choosing Trinity University should evaluate whether the institution's specific programs, location, or campus culture justify costs versus higher-ROI alternatives.

Who Succeeds Here: Self-directed students who maximize campus resources (research, internships, networking) achieve outcomes rivaling higher-ranked schools. Students seeking specific programs or geographic locations find strong value. Those needing extensive hand-holding may struggle in larger university environments.

Final Assessment: Trinity University's #96 ranking and A grade reflect solid performance across metrics. With 851 schools offering better ROI, value-focused students should compare carefully. However, for students who fit the institution's culture and programs, outcomes justify investment.

Key Takeaways

  • 84.0% graduation rate sits 21.5 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 92.9% first-year retention is 16.1 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • 67.1% return on investment is 17.2 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $67,249 run about 11% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
  • Average net price of $23,464 is roughly $3,385 higher than the national median of $20,079.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 8:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 92.9% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 91.3% employment rate within three years sits 23.1 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Average net price of $23,464 is about $3,385 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
  • Pell participation at 18.8% trails the national share by 15.7 points, so equity work remains important.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

Trinity University is a private nonprofit university based in San Antonio, TX and earns a A overall grade. It holds a #96 national ranking Grades by category break down as Completion A, Support A, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability C+.

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.

92.9% of learners come back after year one while 84.0% graduate within 150% of normal time (78.2% within eight years). EDsmart calculates the ROI at 67.1%, 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. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.

EDsmart Financial Snapshot

Families pay about $23,464 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $68,224.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $44,760 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $22,954 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 18.8% 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 $67,249 four years after graduation. This is roughly 11% above typical U.S. college outcomes.

The three-year employment rate is close to 91.3%.

Plan around an ROI of about 67.1% 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

25.9% 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 Trinity 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
4.76 / 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 Trinity University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
Visit the campus
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Visit Trinity University Website →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Trinity University's acceptance rate?

Trinity University's acceptance rate is 25.9%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does Trinity University cost?

At Trinity University, listed tuition and fees are $53,676 per year, and the average net price after aid is $23,464. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is Trinity University's ranking?

Trinity University ranks #96 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is Trinity University's graduation rate?

At Trinity University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 84.0% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 78.2%, and first-year retention is 92.9%.

What are Trinity University's job outcomes?

Graduates of Trinity University report median earnings of $67,249 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is Trinity University's student population?

Trinity University enrolls about 2,505 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
  • Endowment$1.66B
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate13.9%

Data Source & Methodology