Acceptance Rate
92%
Avg. SAT
1140
75th percentile
“A tight-knit women’s university in Saint Paul with a fierce focus on leadership and social justice.”
Saint Paul, MN
Location
Large City
Campus Setting
Nestled in the heart of Saint Paul, Minnesota, St. Catherine University stands out as a private, women-centered institution with a mission rooted in empowerment and service. Founded in 1905 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, it began as a college to educate women in a time when access to higher education was limited, and it has carried that legacy of advocacy into the modern era. Today, known affectionately as St. Kate’s, it remains dedicated to fostering leadership among women and nonbinary students, blending Catholic values with a progressive commitment to equity and inclusion. If you’re someone who craves a supportive, mission-driven environment where personal growth and societal impact are intertwined, you’ll find a home here.
The campus, spread across 110 acres in a residential area of Saint Paul, offers a serene escape from the nearby urban buzz of the Twin Cities. You’re just minutes from the vibrant arts, food, and music scenes of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, yet the campus feels like a quiet retreat with its historic buildings and green spaces. However, the location means dealing with Minnesota’s long, harsh winters—think heavy snow and subzero temperatures—which can be a challenge if you’re not used to bundling up for months on end. St. Kate’s best suits students who value close community ties, are eager to engage in meaningful dialogue about social issues, and don’t mind a smaller, less bustling college experience compared to larger universities.
On the flip side, if you’re seeking a co-ed environment or a campus with a big-school energy—think sprawling sports culture or endless social options—this might not be the right fit. St. Kate’s intimate size, with just over 3,000 undergraduates, creates a tight-knit feel, but it also means fewer resources and extracurricular variety than you’d find at a state university. Still, for those who thrive in a space where they can be heard and make a tangible difference, this university offers a unique platform to build confidence and purpose.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
St. Catherine University shines in fields that prepare students for careers with impact, particularly in health sciences, nursing, and social work. Its nursing program is a standout, with a reputation for producing skilled, compassionate professionals ready to tackle real-world challenges—students often get hands-on clinical experience early on through partnerships with local hospitals and clinics. Beyond healthcare, St. Kate’s emphasizes liberal arts education with a focus on critical thinking and ethical leadership, weaving themes of social responsibility into nearly every major, from business to education. You can expect small class sizes in most courses, allowing for personal attention from professors who often know your name and your goals.
Research opportunities exist, especially in health-related fields, though they’re not as extensive as at larger research universities. Introductory courses can sometimes feel broad and less personalized, especially in popular programs like nursing where demand is high, and getting into certain competitive tracks may require extra effort. Still, the academic culture here prioritizes collaboration over cutthroat competition, and you’ll often find faculty and peers cheering you on. If your academic interests lie outside the university’s core strengths or you’re looking for a wide array of cutting-edge research labs, you might feel limited—but for those passionate about making a difference in community-focused fields, St. Kate’s offers a solid foundation.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
2,498 undergrad • 1,153 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
White
58%
Black / African American
14%
Hispanic / Latino
10%
Asian
11%
Other / Multi-racial
8%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Saint Paul, MN
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Life at St. Catherine University revolves around a warm, supportive community where students often describe feeling like part of a family. With a smaller student body, you’ll quickly recognize familiar faces, whether you’re grabbing coffee at the campus café or joining a study group in the library. Traditions like the annual Dew Drop Bop—a festive dance and celebration—bring everyone together, while events focused on women’s leadership and service, such as volunteer days, reflect the school’s core values. Most students live on campus in residence halls, fostering close bonds, though housing options can feel limited if you’re looking for variety or off-campus alternatives early in your college years.
Socially, St. Kate’s is quieter compared to larger universities—there’s no dominant party scene or massive sports culture to anchor weekends. Instead, you can expect gatherings centered on club activities, guest speakers, or trips into Saint Paul and Minneapolis for concerts and events, though the cost of living in the Twin Cities can add up if you’re exploring often. The harsh Minnesota winters also shape campus life; trudging through snow to class isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, and cabin fever can set in during the colder months. Still, the intimate vibe and focus on personal connections make it a nurturing space for those who prefer depth over breadth in their social circles.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Net Annual Cost by Household Income
Household Income
Avg. Net Cost
$0 – $30K
$17,228
$30K – $48K
$17,943
$48K – $75K
$19,378
$75K – $110K
$20,119
$110K+
$21,773
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Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
80%
4 Years Graduation Rate
56%
6 Years Graduation Rate
60%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$59,282
80% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at St Catherine University and return in the fall. 56% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 60% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
56%
4-6 years
4%
Non-grad
40%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$36,600
Acceptance
92%
Undergrads
2,498
4-Year Grad Rate
56%
Endowment
$151M
Saint Paul, MN 55105
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