St. Norbert College number one in the state for graduation rate

From St. Norbert College, May 2, 2011
by Mike Counter, mike.counter@snc.edu, (920) 403-3089

Of Wisconsin's 34 colleges and universities, St. Norbert College is ranked number one when it comes to four-year graduation rates. "This is just one of the reasons why a St. Norbert College education is an outstanding value. Graduation rates are important for families to look for when selecting a college because when you finish matters," said Bridget Krage O'Connor, vice president for enrollment management and communications at St. Norbert College.

As the national trend of college completion rates declines and the number of years to finish increases, St. Norbert College's ranking reflects its mission.

Even when compared with schools in the neighboring states of Michigan and Illinois, the college is among the leaders. According to statistics presented in College Results Online and gathered by the U.S. Department of Education, St. Norbert's four-year graduation rate (69.7%) places it in the top position compared to all other colleges and universities in Wisconsin; in third place when all Michigan institutions are added to the list; and in fifth place when Illinois colleges and universities are included. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, St. Norbert College's 69.7% graduation rate compares to 51% at private institutions, 31% at public institutions, and 13% at for-profit institutions.

"The personal attention a student receives in advisement, the strong faculty connections, and a sense of belonging to a college community ensures students are able to complete their degrees on time," said O'Connor. "We make each of these items a priority."

The graduation rates displayed on College Results Online are based on the percentage of first-time, full-time, bachelor's or equivalent degree-seeking freshmen who earn a bachelor's or equivalent degree from the institution where they originally enrolled.

To view the latest Wisconsin four-year graduation rates, go to http://www.snc.edu/go/gradrates.