Santa Clara University Overview

Santa Clara University is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Santa Clara, CA. It has an enrollment of 5,887 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 53.98%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $43,228. Tuition is $55,860.00 without financial aid.

Santa Clara University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Santa Clara University, 94.35% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Santa Clara University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1.

Santa Clara University Website

Santa Clara University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 53.98%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1418.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 32.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Santa Clara University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $43,228.

The average tuition is:

• $23,618, when family income is less than $30,000

• $27,708, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $27,484, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $35,921, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $52,819, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 22.81% of students received a federal student loan and 10.63% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $55,860.00 without financial aid.

Santa Clara University Net Price Calculator

Santa Clara University Majors/Salaries

Santa Clara University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Santa Clara University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,568
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,858
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $59,280
• Biomedical/Medical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $64,773
• Biomedical/Medical Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $88,639
• Civil Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $79,473
• Civil Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $75,204
• Computer Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $103,449
• Computer Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $104,192
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $116,083
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $74,576
• Mechanical Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $86,424
• Engineering-Related Fields. (Master’s Degree) – $127,993
• Law. (Doctoral Degree) – $86,424
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $68,379
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,526
• Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,839
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,133
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Master’s Degree) – $48,667
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Graduate/Professional Certificate) – $53,984
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $68,379
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,869
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,649
• Public Health. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,594
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $128,588
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,740
• Business/Managerial Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,338
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $70,456
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,170
• Management Information Systems and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $80,391
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,867
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $43,798

Santa Clara University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Santa Clara University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.05%
• Asian: 20.42%
• Black: 2.63%
• Hispanic: 17.95%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.24%
• Non-resident alien: 5.50%
• Two or more races: 9.16%
• Unknown: 2.04%
• White: 42.01%

At Santa Clara University, 1.12% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Santa Clara University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Santa Clara University?

Santa Clara University has a vibrant school spirit with a strong focus on community and engagement. The students are passionate about their school and frequently participate in various events and activities on campus like athletic events, club activities, and community service projects. The university also has a range of traditions and customs that contribute to a lively campus atmosphere. Overall, Santa Clara University is known for its excellent school spirit and sense of community.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Santa Clara University?

Santa Clara University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. Some popular extracurriculars at Santa Clara University include: 1. Club sports such as soccer, ultimate frisbee, and volleyball 2. Campus ministry organizations for spiritual growth and community service 3. Greek life organizations for social and community involvement 4. Student government and leadership opportunities 5. STEM clubs including robotics, engineering and computer science clubs. 6. Team sports including football, basketball, and baseball 7. Performing arts groups including theatre, dance and music. 8. Cultural clubs that celebrate student diversity. There are over 150 student organizations at Santa Clara University, offering a diverse range of extracurricular opportunities that cater to different interests.

How are the food choices at Santa Clara University?

Santa Clara University offers a variety of dining options for students with both on-campus and off-campus choices. There are several dining venues and eateries on campus for students to choose from, including a dining hall, cafes, and food trucks. There are also dining options that cater to specific dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Off-campus, students can find a variety of restaurants and cafes near the university that offer a wide range of food choices. Additionally, there are several grocery stores near campus that make it convenient for students to cook their meals if they prefer to do so. Overall, Santa Clara University offers a diverse range of dining options for students to choose from.

Is there Greek life at Santa Clara University?

Yes, Santa Clara University has Greek Life. The fraternities and sororities are members of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), and Multicultural Greek Council (MGC). The university has a total of 15 Greek organizations which include 5 National Panhellenic sororities, 4 North-American Interfraternity Conference fraternities, and 6 multicultural or culturally-based groups.

What is Santa Clara University known for?

Santa Clara University is a private Jesuit university located in Santa Clara, California. It is known for its excellent undergraduate and graduate programs, with the most popular majors being engineering, business, and computer science. The university is also well-regarded for its commitment to social justice, community outreach, and sustainability. Additionally, Santa Clara University is recognized for its beautiful campus, with mission-style architecture and stunning views of the Santa Clara Valley. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the western United States.

What are the most popular school clubs at Santa Clara University?

Santa Clara University offers a wide variety of clubs and organizations, so it really depends on your interests. However, some of the most popular ones include Greek life organizations, Club Sports teams, the Santa Clara University Dance Team, Bronco Pep Band, and the Santa Clara University Choirs. Additionally, there are various academic and professional clubs, such as the Marketing Association, Finance Association, and Entrepreneurship Society. Cultural and diversity clubs like the Asian Pacific-Islander Student Union, Black Student Union, and the Queer Student Union are also popular choices among students.

Is the campus at Santa Clara University safe?

Yes, Santa Clara University has a reputation for being a safe and secure campus. The university has its own Department of Public Safety, which works 24/7 to keep the campus safe and secure. Additionally, the campus is well-lit and has emergency phones spread throughout the grounds, making for a safer environment. The university also offers safety programs like self-defense classes, emergency preparedness training, and escort services for students who feel unsafe walking alone on campus.