University of the Incarnate Word

UIW offers 100+ undergraduate programs and 20+ graduate degrees ([13], [16]), with nursing (161 graduates), business (138), psychology (81), and biology (69) being the most popular ([17]). The 12:1 student-faculty ratio supports small classes—58.8% have fewer than 20 students ([14]). Unique programs include:

• Catechetics (Catholic religious education)
• Strategic and Corporate Communications
• Creative Publishing ([18])

The School of Professional Studies provides adult-focused degrees in criminal justice and organizational development ([15]). Over 830 students earned research honors recently ([16]), though the curriculum leans vocational rather than theoretical.

UIW’s 96-acre campus buzzes with Latino cultural events and Catholic traditions ([22]). Students describe it as "not as big, but very comfortable" ([23]). Key features:

• 100+ clubs including multicultural, pre-professional, and special interest groups ([20], [24])
• Active Greek life (6 sororities, 4 fraternities)
• Residence halls housing 1,300+ students ([19])

San Antonio’s Mexican-American heritage permeates campus, with events like Día de los Muertos celebrations ([22]). The Office of Campus Life coordinates everything from intramurals to advocacy services ([21]).

UIW grads face mixed results:

• 52% graduate within 6 years (37% in 4 years) ([25], [26], [30])
• Median early-career salary: $46,280 ([25], [30])
• Top earners: Nursing and business majors (5-year median: $59,329) ([30])

Notably, female students outperform males with a 56% graduation rate ([25]). The "150% time" completion rate (53%) lags behind national averages ([29]), reflecting UIW’s mission to serve underprepared students.

UIW leverages generous aid to offset its $32,000+ sticker price:

• 100% of freshmen receive aid ([33])
• Average net price: $20,832 after grants ([35])
• Typical aid package: $27,718 (mix of institutional, federal, and state grants) ([33], [34])

Key breakdown:

• Institutional grants: $19,167 avg
• Pell Grants: $5,492 avg ([34])

The 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 helps estimate costs for prospective students ([31], [36]).

UIW carves a niche as San Antonio’s Catholic university—a rare blend of: 1. Radical accessibility (98% acceptance) with small classes (12:1 ratio) 2. Vocational focus in nursing/business alongside Catholic humanities (Catechetics) 3. Tex-Mex cultural vibrancy (clubs, events, 58% Latino enrollment per CDS)

It’s ideal for local students seeking affordable professional degrees in a faith-based setting, though the low graduation rate signals academic support challenges.