Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Ponce

PCUPR-Ponce offers 93 majors with a 21:1 student-faculty ratio, leaning heavily into pre-professional fields. The most popular programs are Biomedical Sciences (125 students) and Nursing (75 students), followed by Liberal Arts. The university emphasizes its Catholic identity as a "centre of creativity and dissemination of knowledge," though its graduation rate lags at 43% (per College Board) or 46% (federal data). Class sizes and teaching quality aren’t detailed in sources, but the curriculum appears tailored to Puerto Rico’s healthcare and service-sector needs.

The urban Ponce campus houses 3,963 undergraduates, with dorm costs averaging $6,663/year. Student life is quiet: Niche reviews note no parties and limited Greek life, while US News mentions undefined "clubs" and sports. The atmosphere leans academic and faith-oriented, with little data on cultural events or activism. Housing appears optional, suggesting many students commute. The Middle States Commission cites efforts to improve retention, but social vibrancy isn’t a highlighted strength.

Graduation rates are a pain point: 18% graduate in 4 years (29% per Varsity Tutors), rising to 46-52% in 6 years. Median earnings 1 year post-graduation are $36,427, though long-term ROI is unclear (one estimate suggests a 12.3-year break-even period). The 83% freshman retention rate implies student satisfaction, but low completion rates may reflect financial or academic challenges. Employment rates are murky, with one source citing just 19.1% employed at 10 months—likely skewed by Puerto Rico’s economy.

Tuition is $6,650/year (US News), with an average net price of $13,192 after aid (College Scorecard)—far below the U.S. average for private colleges. However, Sallie Mae cites a higher $22,800 average aid package, suggesting variability. The university offers a net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator but no data on merit/need-based aid?Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements. distribution. Graduates carry $15,500 in average debt, low by national standards but potentially burdensome given local salary prospects.

PCUPR-Ponce is Puerto Rico’s only pontifical university, blending Catholic identity with accessible STEM/pre-med training. Its 98% acceptance rate and $6,650 tuition make it a rare private-college bargain, though low graduation rates and modest earnings outcomes temper its value. The biomedical program’s popularity hints at regional healthcare demand, while the subdued campus life reflects its commuter-school vibe. Ideal for cost-conscious, career-focused students—especially those eyeing Puerto Rico’s job market.