Acceptance Rate
98%
“A vibrant private university in Miami Gardens, blending faith, diversity, and a tight-knit community with a tropical backdrop.”
Miami Gardens, FL
Location
Nestled in the heart of Miami Gardens, Florida, St. Thomas University (STU) carries a distinct identity as a private Catholic institution founded in 1961 by the Augustinian Friars. Originally established as Biscayne College, it transitioned to university status in 1984, reflecting its growth and commitment to a broader academic mission. With a strong emphasis on values-driven education rooted in Catholic teachings, STU prides itself on fostering ethical leadership and service, which shapes much of its campus ethos. The surrounding area, just a short drive from Miami’s bustling cultural scene, offers a mix of suburban calm and easy access to urban energy, with beaches, nightlife, and international flair within reach.
For students, STU feels like a close-knit family where personal connections with peers and faculty come naturally. You’ll find a diverse student body—many are first-generation college students or come from varied cultural backgrounds, reflecting South Florida’s melting pot. This is a place for those who value community, seek a supportive environment, and appreciate a faith-based perspective, though it welcomes students of all beliefs. However, if you’re looking for a sprawling campus with endless anonymity or a highly secular atmosphere, the smaller size and spiritual undertone might feel limiting.
Miami Gardens itself brings both perks and challenges to student life. The tropical climate means year-round warmth and occasional hurricanes, while the cost of living in South Florida can stretch budgets, especially for off-campus housing. Still, the location offers a gateway to vibrant cultural festivals, professional sports, and outdoor adventures, making STU a unique blend of academic focus and regional flavor for the right student.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
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Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
At St. Thomas University, academics center on a personalized approach, with smaller class sizes that let you engage directly with professors who often know your name and goals. The university shines in fields like business, law, and nursing, with the Gus Machado College of Business earning recognition for preparing students for South Florida’s dynamic economy, and the School of Law gaining attention for its focus on ethics and social justice. You can expect a curriculum that weaves in real-world application, often through internships or community projects, especially in programs tied to Miami’s international business hub.
Research opportunities exist, though they’re more limited compared to larger institutions, and the emphasis leans toward teaching and mentorship over cutting-edge labs. Some students might find the range of majors narrower than at bigger schools, and certain specialized fields may require looking elsewhere. Still, the accessible faculty and emphasis on leadership development create an environment where you can carve out a clear path, particularly if you’re drawn to professions with a service or ethical focus.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
4,486 undergrad • 3,166 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
13%
Black / African American
23%
Hispanic / Latino
43%
Asian
1%
Other / Multi-racial
20%
Campus Life
Varsity Athletics
Campus life at St. Thomas University hums with a warm, community-driven spirit, where you’ll likely form tight bonds through student organizations, faith-based activities, and athletic events. With a significant number of commuters, the campus can feel quieter on weekends, but resident students often rally around traditions like the annual Homecoming celebration or service-oriented events tied to the university’s mission. You can expect a social scene that’s more low-key than at larger party schools, with gatherings often centered on cultural events or small-group hangouts rather than wild nightlife.
Living in Miami Gardens means dealing with humid weather and the occasional storm season, which can disrupt plans, though the sunny days make up for it with opportunities for beach trips or outdoor study sessions. Housing on campus is limited, so securing a spot early is key, and some students opt for nearby apartments, navigating South Florida’s higher rental costs. Despite these challenges, the proximity to Miami’s cultural hotspots offers a chance to explore art, music, and food scenes that few other campus locations can match.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
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
$24,087
$30K – $48K
$24,163
$48K – $75K
$25,031
$75K – $110K
$28,415
$110K+
$28,028
Apply for Financial Aid
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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
57%
4 Years Graduation Rate
43%
6 Years Graduation Rate
48%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$54,272
57% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at St. Thomas University and return in the fall. 43% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 48% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
43%
4-6 years
5%
Non-grad
52%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$32,600
Acceptance
98%
Undergrads
4,486
4-Year Grad Rate
43%
Endowment
$41M
Miami Gardens, FL 33054-6459